UNEMPLOYMENT in East Ayrshire has reached its highest level since August 2014.

Figures released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed 3,295 people claimed out of work benefits in April 2018 – up by over 25 per cent on April 2017.

The rate of unemployment is almost double the UK average with 4.3 per cent of residents aged 16 to 64 unemployed in East Ayrshire compared to just 2.2 per cent across the UK.

In August 2014, the rate of unemployment in East Ayrshire was 4.4 per cent or 3,425 people.

In stark contrast, November 2017 saw unemployment in East Ayrshire at its lowest since the financial crash of 2008. Just 2,385 people were unemployed in November – 30 more than in May and June of 2008.

However, the number of people claiming out of work benefits has been on a steady increase since.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth is calling on both the UK and Scottish Governments to do more to stop the raise in unemployment.

Commenting on the figures, Mr Smyth said: “These figures expose the utter neglect by both the UK and Scottish Governments when it comes to tackling unemployment in East Ayrshire.

“At a time when unemployment across Scotland and the UK has been falling, East Ayrshire is sadly bucking the trend with a rise for the sixth month running.

“Behind these figures are families across the area being left behind by the shocking lack of investment in job creation in the area.

“With weak economic growth and the full impact of the post-EU referendum still to come, it’s time both the UK and Scottish Government’s did more to attract jobs to East Ayrshire

“And to support existing local businesses to grow.”