Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith has raised concerns after new figures revealed an increase in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits across the area.
Figures from the Office for National Statistics show 990 people in the Skipton and Ripon constituency were claiming unemployment-related benefits in July.
That's an increase of 90 people compared with July 2025 and 30 more than the previous month.
Despite the rise, the claimant rate remains well below the national average.
The rate in Skipton and Ripon stands at 1.7 per cent of the working-age population, compared with 3.9 per cent across the UK.
The figures also show 130 claimants were aged between 18 and 24 – five fewer than the previous month and unchanged compared with July last year.
Skipton and Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith said:
“While Skipton and Ripon continues to have a claimant rate significantly below the national average, any increase in the number of people relying on unemployment-related benefits is a cause for concern.
“The rise of 90 claimants over the past year is a worrying sign and suggests the Government needs to do more to support businesses to grow and create jobs locally.”
Sir Julian also raised concerns about employment opportunities for younger people.
He added:
“I am particularly concerned about young people taking their first steps into the world of work.
“Helping young people into employment, training and apprenticeships must remain a priority.”
The claimant count includes people receiving Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit claimants who are required to seek work.
It differs from official unemployment statistics but provides an indication of the number of people receiving unemployment-related benefits in the constituency.
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