THE number of people in Shropshire claiming universal credit has risen in the last 12 months, according to current data.

The most recent data published, from November, continues to show rises in the number of claimants in comparison to November 2018.

For Shropshire, these rises are higher than those seen in the wider West Midlands region for the same period.

A number of factors can contribute to this including regional demographics, local labour markets, and the rural nature of much of our counties.

Such increases will be affected by the increased number of claimants being counted who are actually working, for example those previously in work and on working tax credits who are now claiming universal credit.

It should also be noted that when comparing Shropshire to the wider West Midlands region in a backwards five-year comparison, both show considerable reductions in claimant numbers that far exceed those shown in the wider West Midlands and such longer term comparisons will always give a much more accurate reflection of the current state of unemployment.

The Department of Work and Pensions has also taken into account the effect of the coronavirus may have on employment.

“We understand people who are required to stay at home or are infected by coronavirus may need financial support, and quickly," said a spokesman for the DWP.

“Those affected will be able to apply for universal credit and can receive up to a month’s advance up front without physically attending a jobcentre.

“If you believe that you may have been infected, or have been in close contact with someone who has, please do not delay making a claim to universal credit.

"You should stay at home and apply at the earliest opportunity.”

Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP, added: “Our focus at present is guiding the country through the worst public health crisis in a generation and supporting families.

"People across the country are worried about jobs and their future, but with more people in work over the three months to January and wages continuing to outpace inflation, we start from a strong foundation.

"Last week the Chancellor outlined key measures to support British people, British jobs and British businesses through this difficult time.”