A ‘thriving West Sussex’ as unemployment falls

In figures released last week by the Office for National Statistics, the jobless total in the Horsham district had fallen by 35 per cent over the past year.

Around 970 people were out of work in the area this time last year compared to 635 people this year.

Paul Niner, partnership manager for the JobCentre Plus in Horsham, said it was really good news and he was pleased with the results.

“Unemployment continues to drop and that is tremendous news for people,” he said.

“It will lead to a buoyant economy and a thriving West Sussex.”

The number of young people out of work in the town has also dropped by 34 per cent.

More than 200 young adults, between 18 and 24, were claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance this time last year but that has reduced to 135 claimants.

Paul explained the work experience programme they have been implementing in partnership with Horsham District Council is largely to thank for these figures.

He said:“There is obviously a booming economy and there is more work around than last year but our work experience programme has definitely helped.

“This is a good way of helping people and give them an incentive to get into work.

“It is important to get this work experience as it gives people the experience and the confidence to do lots of things.”

The figures for the county show a similar pattern.

The amount of people out of work fell by 35 per cent over the past year with 5,270 people claiming Jobseekers Allowance. Statistics also show a decrease for young claimants with the number of 18 to 24 year olds claiming down by 41 per cent.