Dundee’s labour market has been described as “very encouraging” amid reports nearly 600 folk dropped off the job seekers’ list in just one year.
Kirsty Craig, customer service operations manager for the Department for Work and Pensions at Dundee’s Jobcentre, said there was “not one single reason” for the upturn.
Despite unemployment rising by 18,000 across Scotland, the number of people on benefits in Dundee now sits at 3,055 — a drop of 17% compared to the same time last year.
Youth unemployment also dropped by 17%, reducing to 730 people.
Ms Craig said: “I don’t think there is one single reason for what we’re seeing but there are a lot of things — there is a very encouraging labour market in Dundee at the moment.
“The £1 billion Waterfront regeneration is a key part of the improvement and the work of the local council to promote business and sell off the units to various industries.
“Dundee has raised in prominence too. High-profile eateries have arrived in the city, with places like Malmaison and the new artisan pizzeria, Project Pie. That creates jobs, of course, but also encourages other businesses to move into the area.”
Ms Craig said the Jobcentre also tried to respond to changes in the local labour market to provide up-to-date advice and training to help claimants find work.
She said there was a constant reassessment of the jobs available in the market and the Jobcentre aimed to reflect this.
Ms Craig believes this has been done very successfully, helping to improve the employment figures.
She said it was odd to see unemployment levels at 17% across the board, saying the Government’s focus has been on youth unemployment with volunteers offering CV help and work experience projects.
Councillor Jimmy Black said the job figures were positive news for the city, adding: “The Waterfront has created jobs for many people.”
