The number of jobseekers is higher now than a year ago, according to the latest figures from the Department of Work and Pensions.

The latest figures for August shows York has 2595 jobseekers, 460 of them aged 18024.

The claimant count has risen 290 (13%) overall, and by 40 or 10% among the 18-24s.

Ryedale has a claimant count of 705, 60 of which are aged 18-24.

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This is an increase 160 or 29% on a year ago, up 10 or 14% among the 18-24s.

Selby has a claimant count of 1320, 205 of which are aged 18-24.

This is an increase of 164 or 14% overall, or of 15 or 8% among the 18-24s.

The claimant count figures include those on Jobseekers Allowance plus those searching for work whilst on Universal Credit.

Comparisons are made with a year ago, because the local figures are not seasonally adjusted, the DWP explained.

(Image: pic supplied)

The overall increase comes as a major jobs fair next month promises at least 70-80 exhibitors, as part of Jobcentre efforts to place people into work.

The York Jobs, Apprenticeships and Skills Fair is at the Railway Institute, Queen Street, on Tuesday September 17 from 11am to 2pm.

Wendy Mangan, DWP Employer & Partnership Manager for York & North Yorkshire, said: “The event will see employers from all sectors from across our local area, come together to showcase their vacancies. It will be a great opportunity for jobseekers to meet employers face to face. Skills providers and training organisations will also be attending to help people to develop the skills and knowledge they need for a new career.

“For customers with health issues, the last hour of the jobs fair from 1pm will be a quieter hour. There will also be the option to access specialist support at the event through a Jobcentre Disability Employment Adviser.

“York Jobcentre will be running sessions prior to the event to support our customers of all ages who will be attending the jobs fair – including ‘How to make the most of a Jobs Fair’ and the opportunity for customers to have a mock interview with an employer before the jobs fair.”

Wendy added jobseekers should speak to their work coach for further information.

Interested exhibitors can still book a place via this link  September’s fair at the Railway Institute

Overall, across Yorkshire and Humberside, the number of people employed is at 2.601 million – down 23,000 on the quarter and down 21,000 on the year.

The employment rate (aged 16-64) is at 72.4% - down 0.7%pts on the quarter and down 1.3%pts on the year.

The number of people unemployed is at 95,000 – down 2,000 on the quarter and down 3,000 on the year.

The unemployment rate is at 3.5% - flat (0.0%pts) on the quarter and down 0.1%pts on the year.

The number of people in non-working households is 407,000.