Huge Rise in Numbers Claiming Job Seekers Allowance

There has been a huge increase in the numbers of people claiming Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) in Northern Ireland. Figures revealed today show that in the period between May 2008 and May 2009 there has been an almost 100% increase in the total number of claimants for JSA. The total for May 2009 stood at 48,075 compared with 24,390 for May 2008.

Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) was introduced in 1996 and replaced Unemployment Benefit and Income Support for unemployed people. JSA is a contributory or income related benefit which is paid to people under Retirement Pension age who are available for and actively seeking employment including those who work for less than 16 hours a week on average, and those on a Government training scheme.

This sharp increase in the numbers claiming this benefit can be clearly explained by looking at the unemployment figures for the same period. Statistics released in September of this year detailed the total number of unemployed in Northern Ireland at 52,700 individuals. This represented an 86% increase on September 2008's figures. It is clear from this that rising unemployment has led more people to claim JSA, as they are unable to secure alternative employment.

Increasing unemployment and reliance on social security benefits also help to explain recent figures showing that the number of home repossessions continues to increase and that demand for debt advice services remains extremely high, despite claims that the UK is beginning to emerge from recession. It is very difficult for families to make the transition between the income they received whilst in employment, and that which is now available to them through the benefits system. People still need to pay their bills, mortgage and other debts, as well as their daily living expenses on what might considerably less monthly income than they have had in the past.

If you would like advice concerning your entitlements to JSA or other Social Security Benefits, as well as assistance in applying for them, please contact you local Citizens Advice Bureau.

The statistics above were published in the Northern Ireland Social Security Statistics Bulletin, which is produced each quarter by the Analytical Services Unit of the Department for Social Development (DSD). It provides an up to date and concise overview of the main benefits administered by the Social Security Agency and Northern Ireland Housing Executive and is based on data available within the DSD.