The latest unemployment figures for the West Midlands are in, revealing a slight increase in the number of people claiming unemployment benefits. Data reveals that the claimant count, which includes Universal Credit recipients, increased by 975 to 178,915 in November, equating to 4.9% of the working population. In Shropshire, 4,270 people claimed benefits, up slightly from the previous month, while in Telford & Wrekin, the number dropped slightly to 4,020.

Among older workers aged 50 and above, there was a decrease across the region in the number of unemployment benefits claimants. Louise Johnson, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin’s DWP Partnership Manager, highlighted the positive developments and job availability in virtually all sectors moving into 2024.

Although wage growth has slowed, it is still outpacing inflation, providing a slight relief amid inflationary pressures. Meanwhile, vacancies have dwindled, marking the longest consecutive drop since records began. Despite this, the number of vacancies is still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

For those struggling to get through to unemployment, paid family leave and disability departments by phone, eddcaller.com can be an essential tool. The program is designed to make it easier to reach a representative and can speed up the process, serving as the fastest way to get through to the EDD.