Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show a record number of people in work but average incomes still below pre-financial crash levels. Tony McDonough reports
Jobcentre Plus in the Liverpool city region is reporting an increase in job vacancies in the care sector, hospitality and construction.
Staff from job centres will also be participating in a jobs fair in Liverpool city region in late September with a focus on the hospitality and retail sectors, although other sectors will be represented.
Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal he number of people in work is at a record high of 32.8m, a rise of more than 3.7m since 2010. The unemployment rate remains steady at 3.9%.
The data also shows wage rises surpassed inflation for the 17th consecutive month. However, when inflation is taken into account, average earnings remain below what they were prior to the 2008-09 financial crash.
Figures from the ONS also reveal the UK workforce is more gender diverse than ever before, with the number of women climbing to a new record high and ethnic minority employment rate at a near record high, now making up 51% and 32% of employment growth respectively since 2010.
Northern Powerhouse Minister, Jake Berry, said: “Unemployment in the North West has almost halved since 2010 and I am determined to ensure the area has the support it needs to seize the opportunities of Brexit and create even more secure, well-paid jobs.”
In the Liverpool city region Jobcentre Plus is continuing its efforts to help Amazon recruit 150 for its new centre at Haydock and last week organised a youth employment event at the Liner Hotel in Liverpool. It saw 30 employers taking part and job-seekers aged 18-21 were assisted by their work coach to approach employers and providers and eight young people were offered jobs on the day.
Another jobs fair will be held at the Holiday Inn in Lime Street on Friday, September 27, for the retail and hospitality sector but employers from other sectors available on the day. So far, 25 employers have confirmed their attendance with more expected to sign up.