EMPLOYMENT prospects are looking “buoyant” based on figures providing the most up-to-date snapshot of the job market in the Vale.

Statistics released (Wednesday, January 21) show 2082 people were claiming jobseekers allowance (JSA) – 511 less than at the same time last year and a 25 per cent fall.

Customer service operations manager for the DWP Cardiff & Vale, Matthew Thomas said: “We are thrilled at the trend of falling unemployment. We are feeling that there’s a buoyant labour market in the Vale of Glamorgan.”

He said colleagues at JobCentre Plus had been doing a great deal of work in improving employment prospects such as helping people prepare for vacancies advertised by employers such as those expected at Barry Asda due to open this Spring with 300 jobs on offer.

A Welsh Government spokeswoman said the latest figures showed employment in Wales remains steady at a level well above the historic average, while unemployment and claimant count are both lower than at the same time last year.

She said: “Economic inactivity in Wales has decreased over the past quarter while youth unemployment continues to fall faster in Wales than across the UK. Our policies are making a difference to support the Welsh economy, helping to create and safeguard more jobs and opportunities for workers across Wales.”

Secretary of State for Wales, Stephen Crabb said the overall employment picture was positive but there was clearly more work to do.

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Wales fell by 1,300 in December – the 22nd consecutive monthly fall - official figures published today.

Figures also show employment increased by 4,000 over the three months September to November - however unemployment increased by 9,000 over the same period.

The number of Jobseeker’s claimants has fallen 16,100 over the past year – with the number of young claimants falling 5,900. Long term claimants were also down 5,200.

Stephen Crabb said: “This government is committed to building a Britain with full employment - we are encouraging enterprise and backing small businesses.

"The overall picture is positive - the increase in employment and the fall in the number of jobseeker's claimants is good news but the unemployment figures show we have more work to do.

"Only by sticking to our long term economic plan can we continue to strengthen the Welsh economy and give more hardworking people in Wales the security of a good job, a regular wage and better future."