Unemployment in Northampton has seen a slight rise for the third consecutive month, figures released today reveal.
The number of people claiming jobseeker’s allowance in Northampton last month was 6,074, equivalent to 4.3 per cent of the population.
This is higher than the East Midlands average of 3.7 per cent, and the national average of 3.8 per cent.
The figure has risen from 5,934 in February, equivalent to 4.2 per cent of the population, and is the third consecutive monthly increase.
However, the figure is lower than the 6,118 people who were claiming in the town in March last year.
Nationally, unemployment has increased by 70,000 to 2.56 million, with rises among young people and those out of work for more than a year.
The total is the worst since last summer, giving the UK a jobless rate of 7.9 per cent.
The number of people in work fell by 2,000 in the latest quarter to February, to just under 30 million. But despite the rise, today’s total is 71,000 lower than a year ago.
Employment minister Mark Hoban said: “Today’s figures show a further fall in the number of people claiming jobseeker’s allowance, including a welcome drop amongst young people.
“But there are still tough challenges ahead. We will continue to give jobseekers all the help and support they need to realise their aspirations.”