YORK Jobcentre says it is succeeding in placing people into work due to a range of activities, including a jobs fair tomorrow (wed), which promises ‘hundreds’ of vacancies.

The centre did not release its usual monthly figures today, but says dole queues are shortening, particularly for the over 50s.

It credits its work coaches across York, Ryedale and Selby, adding in York, the number of over 50 on unemployment benefits is down 23 per cent on a year ago

This compares with the national figures remaining low and stable at 4.2 per cent of the workforce.

Despite this, the number of jobs on offer nationwide fell by 43,000 from the previous total, with the ONS estimating some 988,000 vacancies available from July to September.

Wendy Mangan, Employer and Partnership Manager for York & North Yorkshire said: “York Jobcentre has been very busy, hosting a full range of activities. We recently held a  successful Twilight Jobs Fair. The event ran from 4pm-6pm – the idea being to give jobseekers, students and those already working and looking for extra or alternative employment, an opportunity to attend. Twelve employers had stands and 143 customers attended with lots of positive feedback from all”.

Wendy continued: “We have also been working hard with B&M to recruit for their new retail store opening at Monks Cross in York – with fantastic results!

“B&M delivered five group information sessions to customers interested in working at the new store, at York jobcentre. 

“Over 90 customers attended these sessions and 74 went on to be given an interview by B&M the following week, again in the jobcentre. From these interviews, 45 job offers were made and 44 customers have now started work.  After a few days of work… one customer said how lovely it was that everybody had started together and that they were all supporting one another”

Jobcentre chiefs are now looking forward to the Ryedale Jobs Fair this Wednesday (25 Oct) from 11am-1.30pm at The Milton Rooms in Malton Market Place.

Wendy added: “Ryedale jobcentre has organised the event in partnership with North Yorkshire Council.  There will be hundreds of vacancies on offer in Ryedale, covering seasonal and permanent roles, with part-time, full-time and flexible hours available”.

York jobcentre also has the following opportunities coming soon for customers:

  • Sign-up session for a 4-day Retail Sector-Based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) with guaranteed interviews for all completers with M&S and B&M – 27/10/23 at York Jobcentre (2pm)
  • Apprenticeship Information Event – 1/11/23 at York Jobcentre (2pm)
  • York Health and Care Recruitment, Careers and Volunteering Event – 4/11/23 at West Offices 10am-2pm
  • Security Course (SIA) Information and sign-up session – 9/11/2 at York Jobcentre (1pm)

For more information on any of the above the jobless are asked to speak to their  Jobcentre Work Coach.