THE number of Worcester people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance has fallen once again, this time to its lowest level for almost five years.

A total of 2,042 city residents were claiming the benefit in August, continuing a trend which has seen the number fall every month since February.

The last time the figure was as low was in December 2008 when the number dipped below 2,000.

The current figure means Worcester remains below the national average for claimants with 3.1 per cent of the working population claiming the allowance compared with 3.3 per cent nationally.

Of the Worcester figure, 1,364 are men and 678 women.

“The downward theme has continued which is obviously a good thing,” said Ben Mannion, strategic development director with Hewett Recruitment, based on Foregate Street in Worcester.

“In our experience there has been an increase in the temporary side of things, with permanent placements remaining strong, too.

“Our large industrial clients have started to bring people back in.”

Sarah Mayo-Evans, managing partner of Peach Recruitment on Pierpoint Street, Worcester, said the latest figures were “an accurate reflection of the current local market”.

“We have seen a substantial rise in temporary placements through July and August, our highest numbers for over three years,” she said.

As the figures were released by the Office for National Statistics today, the government’s official job search website showed more than 1,600 available positions within a five-mile radius of Worcester.

Jobs include a negligence solicitor, chef and PE teacher.

The latest Worcester figure is down by 31 on the previous month.

Nationally, unemployment fell by 24,000 last month to 2.49 million.

“I really welcome this news,” said Cllr Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure.

“Although it’s by a relatively small amount and we shouldn’t get too carried away, it’s good to see the figures heading in the right direction.”

He said residents seeking employment should attend the Worcestershire Jobs Fair tomorrow and the Worcester News Jobs and Careers Fair next Thursday (19th) - both at Worcester’s Guildhall.

• Jobseeker’s Allowance is payable to adults who are available for and actively seeking work. Rates start at £56.80 per week.