FEWER people are unemployed in Warrington compared to last year despite concerns Brexit could have had a detrimental impact on the market.

The jobs climate in Warrington continues to improve after unemployment rates dropped in the town, recent figures have revealed.

There are currently 2,160 residents registered at JobCentre Plus on Mersey Street in the town centre – this is down 440 on the same time last year.

A total of 455 of these claimants are under the age of 25.
These figures are in line with national data where unemployment continues to drop with a 10 year all-time low.

Unemployment is now 4.9 per cent nationally – the lowest since 2005.

These figures surprised many analysts as claimant figures have fallen following the country's decision to leave the European Union in the June 23 referendum. 

Across the north west, the number of people in work has risen by 64,000 over the past year.

This includes a record number of women in work at 1.62 million.

Joanna Gillies from Warrington's JobCentre Plus welcomed the news but said there are still plenty of vacancies available to job hunters.

With more than 400 jobs in the call centre and care industry, 147 in retail and 110 for warehouse work, Mrs Gillies is hopeful that unemployment figures can continue to drop.

It was also revealed that 28 people have been signed up for traineeships at Warrington Pension Centre at Hilden House with help from staff at Jobcentre Plus.

JobCentre Plus holds regular job fairs to give job seekers the chance to meet and talk to employers who have vacancies available.

To help the unemployed population get back on to the career ladder, the next jobs fair will be held on September 28 at the base at Nolan House.