South Lanarkshire Jobcentres are gearing up for a busy and exciting year.
There was an eight per cent drop in the number of people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance in South Lanarkshire over the past 12 months.
In December, there were total of 5140 people taking the unemployment benefit in the local authority area – down 470 from the previous year.
There has been a remarkable 16 per cent cut in the number of unemployed aged 50 and over, although there has been a slight increase in the number of 18- to 24-year-olds claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, up five per cent.
Figures released last week show that in December 2025 there were 1165 over-50s claiming, down 225 from the previous year. For those aged 18 to 25, a total of 1000 were claiming, up 50 on the previous year.
South Lanarkshire Jobcentres are gearing up for a busy and exciting year, with plans to expand their support for jobseekers, strengthen partnerships with local employers and deliver more opportunities across the community.
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With new jobs fairs, specialist support and a continued focus on helping people move into meaningful work, the team is ready to make 2026 a year of growth and success.
Looking ahead to the year at the local Jobcentre, a South Lanarkshire external relations leader said: “2026 is set to be a big year for us. Our team is focused on building even stronger connections with businesses and helping even more jobseekers find the right roles. We’re planning a full programme of in-person and online jobs fairs including local businesses and we’re continuing to work closely with employers – some of whom will be recruiting directly from our Jobcentre.
“We’ll also be expanding our specialist support, including tailored events for young people and the over-50s, while growing our links with local employers in the transport and construction sectors.
“These partnerships will help us move people into jobs faster, with better matches and more opportunities across a wide range of sectors.
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“With hundreds of vacancies available on the Find a job GOV.UK website at any time – from hospitality to healthcare – we’re committed to helping people take their next step into fulfilling work throughout 2026.
“Our extra help will continue to play a vital role in supporting young people as they navigate the world of work. Whether it’s CV guidance, interview coaching, or introductions to local employers, we’ll be offering hands-on support to help them build confidence and seize new opportunities. Our message to jobseekers is simple: if you’re ready to start your journey, 2026 could be the year your next opportunity begins.”
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, added: “Today’s figures show there are 513,000 more people in work compared to this time last year, but also highlights why we must go further, especially for our young people.
“That’s why are investing £1.5 billion to get hundreds of thousands of young people earning or learning, while former Health Secretary Alan Milburn is leading a review to help us get to the root of what is holding the younger generation back.
“Through our Jobs Guarantee launching this month we are helping young people find paid work placements, and we urge employers to come forward and join the likes of EON, JD Sports, Tesco and TUI who are already pledging their support.”
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READ MORE: Nathan Evans and Saint Phnx forced to cancel Hamilton gig
