The number of out-of-work over-50s in Peterborough has fallen despite a drop in some job vacancies.

New figures from the Department of Work and Pensions shows that there was a three per cent fall in the number of people aged over 50 claiming work related Universal Credit in the city last month compared to a year earlier.

It means there are now 1,105 claimants in the over-50s bracket in the Peterborough parliamentary constituency.

Lynne Clarke, partnerships manager for Peterborough Jobcentre, said: “The employment statistics highlight the great being done by our Work Coaches across Peterborough.

"We continue to see a reduction in our 50 plus age group.

She said: “We know that when young jobseekers receive personalised support, they build the confidence to develop their skills, take steps into work.

“Specialist support continues to be available for those aged 50 plus and people with disabilities and health conditions, ensuring everyone can stay connected to opportunities.

She added: “Jobseekers are also encouraged to check out the range of vacancies available on Find a Job.

"With more than 861 vacancies locally over 50 per cent of these are within the care sector and we are currently running a Sector based work academy with a local employer in care sector.”

Ms Clarke said the fall in claimants came even though was a dip in the number of vacancies on offer.

She said: “Applicants have to be aware that the nature of type of vacancies is changing.”

Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce has highlighted that while vacancy numbers are falling at Peterborough firms many employers were actually struggling to find recruits with the right skills to take the jobs.

Charlotte Horobin, chief executive of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We need to do more to match the needs of employers with education across all ages.”