POLITICALLY SPEAKING: Outwood MP Andrea Jenkyns has her say on jobs and unemployment

In January this year just 1.6 per cent of people across the constituency, just 821 people, were reliant on Jobseeker’s Allowance. This is a truly remarkable achievement.

Across the country, the jobless rate is at a ten-year low. This would not have been possible without the difficult decisions taken by the Conservatives and the dynamism and ingenuity of our businesses of all sizes.

More jobs means more prosperity and more people enjoying the security of a regular wage, while fewer people have to turn for the state for help. There is, however, one downside to this success. Our area is experiencing a significant amount of growth, with businesses wanting to hire fantastic local people. But a shortage of people looking for work means it is difficult fill these vacancies.

When I was a candidate I held my first Jobs and Skills Fair. It was a huge success, so I decided to bring that success back. Last month I teamed up with the Department of Work and Pensions and Morley JobCentre Plus and held my second jobs fair. We welcomed some fantastic local employers including QHotels, Positive People Employment and the White Rose Shopping Centre. There were also representatives from the Royal Air Force, the Army and the NHS. The JobCentre staff were also on hand to help and answer questions.

Through the day we welcomed hundreds of local people looking for work through the doors. I spent a lot of time talking to applicants and businesses, both of whom were impressed by the range of employers and candidates at the event and relishing the chance to connect. I also drew on my past experience in retail, when I was often hiring staff, to advise and help people with their questions and concerns.

The whole day was a huge success, and I intend to hold another such event very soon.

I would like to thank the jobcentre and the Department for Work and Pensions for their incredible support, as well as Claire in my office for all her hard work and organisation.

** I’ve added details of my latest surgeries on my website at www.andreajenkyns.co.uk/surgeries. You can also drop into the office in Morley, call 0113 345 0380 or e-mail me on [email protected].