THE number of people out of work in Fife dropped by 19 per cent in December compared to the same period last year.

There are currently 7,980 people claiming Universal Credit, 1,820 less than the previous December.

The number of 18- to 24-year-olds claiming the benefit fell by 17 per cent while there were 20 per cent less people aged over 50 out of work in the same time period.

DWP employer manager for Fife, Phil Martin, said: "The figures are very good. The claimant count has shown the point where the market is. There is a reduction of 1,820 which is 19 per cent which is fantastic.

"What is interesting is the younger and older claimant count. It means employers are potentially looking at a wide range of, and using experience of, older workers and giving younger workers a chance."

Despite more people being in work across Fife, Mr Martin said there were still opportunities available for those looking for work.

“Our work coaches are here to support people taking the first steps on their journey back to work. The priority is helping those aged 50-plus, and others who may need to build confidence and develop new skills because they’ve been out of the jobs market for a while.

“For the coming year, plans are already in hand to focus activity on helping businesses recruit, as there are still plenty of vacancies available especially in the adult social care, hospitality, retail, and food production sectors. This will include a series of local jobs fairs held at venues throughout Fife.

“Importantly, changes to Universal Credit mean people are working more and keeping more of what they earn. Meanwhile, our DWP ‘Find a Job’ website has thousands of jobs on offer.”