Unemployment continues to fall

Tuesday 21 December 2021

Unemployment has returned to pre-pandemic levels after falling for the ninth consecutive month.

The number out of work peaked at more than 1,600 last year and was around 1,000 after the second lockdown this year. But by the end of November this year, the number of jobseekers stood at 315 - fewer than at any time since the summer of 2019.

"Seeing unemployment fall month on month continues to be a great source of encouragement," said Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security.

"To see the levels of unemployment fall below pre-pandemic levels really is a fantastic achievement. Given the difficulties that employees, employers and the self-employed have faced over the past two years, it is fitting to celebrate this milestone.

“However, we are well aware of the challenges that particular businesses are facing as we continue to live responsibly with covid-19. If you’re an employer struggling to fill vacancies, get in touch with the Job Centre by emailing job.centre@gov.gg or calling 222516 and we will discuss your requirements to see how we might be able to assist."

Pictured: Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security, is celebrating a ninth consecutive monthly fall in unemployment.  

Despite the overall fall in unemployment, there was a slight increase in the number of people claiming a top-up and doing some work while seeking more work and in the number of new claims for unemployment benefit.

The Committee's Job Centre promoted 581 adverts this month on its website and display boards compared to 273 in the same month last year. It is estimated that overall there are more than 1,000 job vacancies in the island and many employers report difficulties recruiting. 

Anyone looking for work can view the vacancies at the Job Centre online by clicking HERE.