Unemployment in Redditch has more than doubled in the past year

Karen Lumley, Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman for Redditch, is very concerned about the economy as the latest figures that have been released for claimants seeking Jobseeker’s Allowances here in Redditch make them one of the highest increases in the country.

The number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in Redditch rose from 1,106 in February 2008 to 2,713 in February this year. The figures, published by the Work Foundation, showed the rise of 145% was one of the highest in the UK.

“This is an extremely worrying trend” said Karen. “I have been visiting businesses all over Redditch over the last few months and whilst some are doing very well I have met business owners going into administration or laying off staff. This is a very worrying trend at a time when people are in negative equity and struggling to keep their heads above water.

We are seeing a government who seems to not be able to help these people and I hope that the budget this month provides real answers for people that are actively seeking work.”

Karen has asked Theresa May MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, to come to Redditch next month to see the situation for herself.