THE number of people claiming key out-of-work benefits in Barrow has fallen by more than 40 per cent since 2010, new figures show.

Figures released this week show that in the North West there are 3,491,379 people in work – meaning 312,405 more people have the security of a job since 2010.

In Barrow, the number of people who are claiming benefits has fallen by 837 from 1,937 in 2010 to 1,100 in 2019.

This overall reduction of 43 per cent shows fewer people now need this support because they have the security of a job.

The figures show wages have risen at their fastest pace in over a decade as employment reaches a record high, with more than 32.6 million people currently in work.

There is also a record number of disabled people in work; a record low unemployment rate; and a record female employment rate

John Woodcock, MP for Barrow and Furness, said:“Every person able to get off benefit and into work is good news for themselves and for fellow taxpayers, but I worry that these figures don’t tell the full story.

“Too many families are now experiencing hardship while working all they can because of fluctuating hours and low pay, and too many of our residents remain so far from the world of work that they are nowhere near taking advantage of the upsurge in employment in the town thanks to the shipyard investment.

“There is still much to do to make sure that this critically important investment lifts up our whole community and addresses the crippling poverty and lack of opportunity that still blights too much of the town.”

Simon Fell, conservative spokesman for Barrow and Furness, said: “These figures show our balanced approach to the economy is working across all corners of the country. This is the biggest rise in wages for over a decade and there are more people in work than ever before.

“With over 3.5 million more people in work since 2010, the Conservatives will continue to help people build a better future for themselves and their families.

“Labour don’t know how to handle the economy and we know what that means from last time – more debt, higher taxes and fewer jobs..”

Amber Rudd, the Work and Pensions Secretary, said: "Under the Conservatives unemployment has fallen again and wages are rising faster than prices, meaning people’s pay can go further and more people have the security of a regular wage and can provide for their families. I’m also proud there are a record number of disabled people in work."