Claimant count falls 14 per cent as jobcentre steps up support in Kintyre
New employment figures show a 14 per cent drop in the claimant count across Argyll and Bute compared with the same period last year, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The improvement is particularly marked among the over-50 age group, with local Jobcentre staff highlighting the work being done to support older jobseekers back into employment.
Elizabeth MacBrayne from Campbeltown Jobcentre said vacancies are currently available across “almost every sector”, including apprenticeship opportunities.
“With spring just around the corner, we’re ready to support even more jobseekers and local employers,” she said.
“We’re working closely with a range of employers to help fill their roles, particularly in retail and hospitality. Argyll Holidays are hosting a recruitment open day on Saturday, February 28, at Drimsynie Holiday Village, and transport from Dumbarton and Dunoon can be arranged if required.
“Our work coaches can help people get job-ready with training, work experience and specialist support, including through our disability employment advisers.”
A series of recruitment and partnership events are also planned by Skills Development Scotland in Rothesay, Dunoon and Oban in the coming weeks.
In Kintyre, Campbeltown Jobcentre will launch an eight-week employability programme from March 23 aimed at customers experiencing social anxiety, offering additional tailored support.
Responding to the national figures, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden said there are 381,000 more people in work since the start of 2025 but that “there is more to do to get people into jobs”.
He said: “Our £1.5 billion drive to tackle youth unemployment is a key priority and this month we announced that we’ll make it easier for young people to find and secure an apprenticeship, which comes on top of our investment to create 50,000 new apprenticeships.
“We’re also meeting people where they are – trebling the number of jobcentres on wheels, bringing a youth hub to every area in Great Britain and giving every young person the chance to earn or learn with our Youth Guarantee.”
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