The number of workless families with children in West Dunbartonshire is well above the Scottish average, according to a new report.
Figures published by the Office for National Statistics have shown that 2000 households with children are unemployed, with 9000 in full employment and 3000 classified as being mixed – where one or more members of the household is economically active and one or more is unemployed or inactive.
West Dunbartonshire’s workless rate of 16.2 percent is more than five percent above the Scottish average.
Glasgow topped the report, with 21.9 percent of families with children shown to be workless, and it was followed by East Ayrshire, Dundee City and West Dunbartonshire.
Labour MSP Jackie Baillie responded to the figures by saying: “It is disappointing that more than a sixth of households with children in West Dunbartonshire are classified as being workless.
“There could be a whole host of reasons why people are unable to work and often long periods of unemployment make it difficult for people to get back into the job market.
“It is clear that more needs to be done to support people into employment, particularly as the impact of Brexit is likely to create skill shortages in our economy.”
A West Dunbartonshire Council spokeswoman added: “As a council, we’re doing everything we can to tackle worklessness in our communities.
“Through direct contact with residents, research and consultation, our employability service, Working 4U, has developed targeted support to help individuals and families to secure employment, access education and training, increase confidence and claim in and out of work benefits.
“The latest statistics show that employment rates are improving in our area (up to 72.2 in 2018 percent from 71.9 percent in 2017) and we are committed to ensuring this positive trend continues.”
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