New figures from the Department of Work and Pensions have revealed that in November this year there were 2,765 people in the ‘searching for work’ category (ONS Claimant Count) for Eastbourne. This is compared to 3,365 in November 2021. Looking at the same figures for Wealden, there’s also been a drop in the number of people in this category - 1,995 this November and 2,520 in November 2021. These positive figures reflect the figures for the South East. The employment rate is up by 18,000 on the quarter, to 4.58 million. This equates to an employment rate of 77.8 per cent. The number of people unemployed is 164,000 - down 27,000 on the year. Bruce Campbell, Eastbourne Jobcentre spokesperson, said: “Jobcentres have had an extremely busy year, working hard, directly with employers to fill their vacancies with the right person. We’ve supported jobseekers to develop their skills, while also helping people to progress in their career. “Eastbourne Jobcentre have supported successful job fairs, across the local area, directly helping people move into work. For the coming year plans are already in hand to ramp up activity to fill local vacancies in key sectors/industries in the area.” Department of Work and Pensions ‘find a job’ page More news from Eastbourne and Wealden