Chamber comment on today’s employment statistics
Date published:
The ONS employment figures for September show that gaps remain between the North East, and the rest of the country concerning the labour market.
Between May and July, the unemployment rate in the North East for those aged 16+ was 1.1% higher than the national average. Similarly, the economic inactivity rate for people aged 16-64 in the North East remained higher than the national average, by 3.6%. The North East’s employment rate for those aged 16-64 was 4.1% lower than the national average.
In the North East, the unemployment rate has improved by 0.5% compared to last year. However, the employment rate is 0.5% lower, and economic inactivity has worsened by 1%. The rise in economic inactivity is due to a variety of reasons; one being the significant rise in long term ill health, which is a concern.
In due course, we will be working with our members regarding employment issues they are facing to make sure they are represented to our best ability. We will also keep engaging with our national counterparts at the British Chamber of Commerce regarding employment and skills, to ensure the North East’s voice is heard throughout the new government.
Notes
Data published by the ONS shows between May and July 2022, the average unemployment rate in the UK for ages 16+ was 3.6%. In the North East this was higher, at 4.7%
The UK’s average employment rate for ages 16-64 was 75.4%. In the North East this was lower, at 71.3%.
The UK’s average economic inactivity rate for ages 16-64 was 21.7%. In the North East this was higher, at 25.3%.