Suffolk: Three people chasing every job vacancy
John Dugmore - Credit: Archant
AN average of three unemployed people are chasing every job vacancy in Suffolk, it has been revealed today.
The research, carried out by public sector trade union UNISON, is based on those claiming job seekers allowance (JSA).
There are large discrepancies throughout the county - with the figure approaching seven in the Waveney district and between one and two in St Edmundsbury.
However the average of 3.3 JSA claimants chasing each unfilled vacancy is broadly in line with the rest of the region.
John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “There is no doubt in the current challenging economic environment there are more people looking for work than jobs available although we continue to be encouraged that hard working firms across the county are doing what they can to open more opportunities for job seekers.
“Because of this employers can afford to be specifically selective about who they interview and therefore candidates have to be on their game.
“At places like the Chamber Job Club and the Young Chamber we work with individuals to ensure they have got impressive CVs, good quality communication skills and reasons why they want to work for a specific employer. It is important to really show you want a job.”
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Bruce Provan, portfolio holder for economic development at Waveney District Council, said: “There is lots of work being undertaken to secure jobs for the future around the energy zone. Lowestoft and Waveney have been designated CORE Status and the Government has paved the way for thousands of jobs to be created by giving the green light to an Enterprise Zone covering sites within Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.
“The Enterprise Zone presents an excellent opportunity for businesses to capitalise on the area’s leading position in the energy sector by offering a range of benefits and incentives.”
A spokeswoman from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “The Government is giving people in East Anglia more powers to decide how money is spent in their area. The business-led New Anglia and South East Local Enterprise Partnerships are targeting money at local projects, and the Greater Norwich and Southend City Deals have the potential to unlock new and innovative ways to drive growth.
“We are also investing £54million of Regional Growth Fund money in the east of England. This will help local companies to create jobs and lever in significant private investment.”
