New figures reveal that there are almost 1,000 more young people out of work in East Ayrshire now than there was in March.

Earlier this year, before the pandemic struck there were 1,495 people aged 16-24 claiming Universal Credit as a result of their employment status in the area.

Now that number has increased by 999 to a total of 2,494 young people claiming the benefit as of August this year according to figures from the Department for Work and Pensions.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure at East Ayrshire Council, said: “When you look at the figures, there’s no two ways about it, they’re going up.

“This pandemic, it’s affecting everything and it’s not been good for jobs right across the UK.

“The figures are going to go up and there are things we can do to mitigate it, there are schemes in place, but until we know what the chancellor is going to be doing with the furlough scheme, if he’s going to extend it, numbers will keep going up.”

A similar trend has been occurring right across Scotland with the number of young people claiming Universal credit rising from 44,895 to 83,278 since March.

David McDowall, Head of Planning and Economic Development, and Linda MacAulay Griffiths, Head of Education at EAC provided this joint response:  “East Ayrshire Council is working together with 32 local authorities on KICKSTART using our expertise and knowledge to encourage employers to create good quality job placements.

“The six month KICKSTART placements are open to those aged 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long term unemployment. They will be available across a range of career paths.

"The first placements are likely to be available from November. This DWP programme, to support employment opportunities, for young people 16-24 who are receiving universal credit, when live, will support small to medium sized employers generate new jobs to attract and support young people get into work.

"Young people who are eligible can be offered the minimum of 25 hours a week at the minimum wage but employers can and will offer more.

“Our Work Coaches and Job Brokerage Team are available to provide information and support to anyone requiring assistance.

"Despite the difficult circumstances we find ourselves in, our partner courses with Ayrshire College and our own Foundation Apprenticeships have continued to run to ensure that our young people get the best of access to work and training.”