THE number of jobseekers signing on in Inverclyde has dropped by almost a third over the last five years.

Department for Work and Pensions figures from last month reveal there were 1,865 Universal Credit claimants in the area, of which 360 were aged between 18 and 24 and 440 were over 50.

The total marks a marginal year-on-year rise but represents a decrease of almost a third since five years ago.

Marjory Smith, local employer and partnership manager, said: “For over a week we were delighted to welcome Buzzworks into the Greenock JCP to deliver face-to-face interviews for the newly-opened Scott’s restaurant.

“Importantly, specialist support is available for those aged 50-plus, or with a health condition, so they remain connected with opportunities, and for parents on Universal Credit there are now increased childcare payments.

"Jobseekers can also check out the thousands of vacancies on offer, by searching the DWP website.”