Jobcentre steps up action to help growing number of unemployed Peterborough youngsters into work
New action is being taken to help increase the growing number of unemployed Peterborough young people into work.
The move comes as new figures reveal there has been a three per cent increase in the number of 18-to-24-year-olds in Peterborough claiming benefits.
It brings the number of younger Universal Credit claimants up by 200 to 1,025 in April compared to the same time last year.
Claimant numbers across all other age groups in Peterborough have fallen.
Now Peterborough Jobcentre staff are to stage a special Jobs Fair in the city aimed specifically at the 18 to 24 year old group.
In addition, the Jobcentre is taking on an extra member of staff who will focus on the task of encouraging more young people into employment.
Lynne Clarke, partnership manager for Peterborough Jobcentre, said: "Support for young people has also been significantly enhanced.
"The Peterborough Youth Hub, in London Road, now features a dedicated team of work coaches delivering tailored support on-site.
She said: “A youth-focused jobs fair is planned for the summer at the Peterborough Youth Hub offering employers the chance to connect directly with young jobseekers."
The jobs fair will take place on July 7 and businesses interested in participating are encouraged to contact the Peterborough Recruitment Consultant Team.
Lynne said: “In addition, a new role has been introduced within the Jobcentre to strengthen support for work experience opportunities.
"This initiative aims to address one of the key barriers to employment – lack of experience – helping customers gain the practical skills needed to secure work.”
She said the increase in the number of young people claiming benefits was disappointing.
"We are looking to promote the use of work experience for young people.
"Work experience helps increase confidence and gets young people used to being in the work environment.
"It also allows employers to try out those that might later fit into their company.”
The Peterborough Youth Employment Hub opened at the Weston Homes Stadium, in London Road, in December 2025 in a bid to provide a lifeline in a city where the number of youngsters who are ‘Not in Education, Employment, or Training’ is above the national average.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, who officially opened the hub, said: “Boosting opportunity and tackling youth unemployment in every area remains our priority.”