CONTINUED support has been pledged to help South Craven jobseekers into employment.

The commitment comes as latest figures show that the number of people out of work in the district has risen year-on-year.

Jobcentre work coaches are on hand to offer help.

And the service is collaborating with employers to assist with filling vacancies.

Michael Dales, employer and partnership manager for North Yorkshire, says: "The number of people on Jobseekers' Allowance or who are searching for work on Universal Credit in the former Craven local authority area has increased by 17 per cent compared to this month a year ago. However, jobcentre work coaches are working hard to support people, whatever their situation, into employment.

"We're working with local companies to help fulfil their recruitment requirements, and in collaboration with Kick off in Business we're running online business start-up and self-employment courses.

"Also, we're holding regular jobs fairs, work academies and skills bootcamps in collaboration with National Careers Service."

He adds: "Providing individual tailored support to jobseekers is a springboard to financial independence, and a route to building a better life for them and their families. Turning this aim into reality is the role of every locally-based jobcentre work coach."