The rate of new Universal Credit claims in Bolton is decreasing, after initially soaring at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, new figures have shown.

The number of claims made in the borough from April 10 to May 14 increased by 19.4%, significantly lower than the 38.8% increase recorded from March 12 to April 9.

This increase is lower than the national figure, which saw 25.3% more claims over the April and May period.

At a regional level, the North West experienced 17.6% more Universal Credit claimants.

There are now 28,193 people claiming Universal Credit in Bolton.

This drop in applicants has enabled the Jobcentre Plus to dedicate more time to help people get back into employment.

Already more vacancies are opening up as various industries are able to get back to business following the easing of lockdown.

Penny Applegate, partnership manager at Bolton Jobcentre Plus, said: "It's definitely settled down, the number of applicants is manageable and we're able to support more people in getting into work.

"A lot of our staff have returned to their normal roles, whereas before we all had to help with processing claims.

"We're working closely with our partners at Team Bolton on how we can support people as many as we can.

"There are big recruitment drives happening in the health and social care industry, security services and facilities management.

"We're in touch with businesses who are planning on reopening and obviously they will have made changes and will be offering different roles.

"For example, the demand for cleaners has gone up considerably. There are certainly areas where employment is expanding,

"We had one customer who was a beautician, and she was advised to take up a job at Morrisons as they had lots of vacancies.

"At first she was reluctant because it was such a change, but in fact she enjoys it so much that she will continue working there part time in the future.

"We're working with the technology industry too and they are offering roles for people who are interested in computers, even if they have no previous experience.

"They are particularly keen to expand the diversity of the workforce, they're very interested in helping people from BAME backgrounds."

The number of universal claim figures does not reflect the number of people who are unemployed; claimants may be working reduced hours, have been furloughed or working part time.

However, it appears that young people have been greatly affected by the coronavirus crisis.

Ms Applegate said: "The group we are most concerned about are young people since their industries, such as hospitality, have been the hardest hit.

"It can be really difficult if this their first job, but they have have skills and abilities, we just need to see where else they can use them.

"They may have to consider a career change but there are lots of possibilities out there."

Minister for Employment Mims Davies MP said: "Today’s figures are starting to show the impact of Covid-19 on our economy, but our furlough scheme, grants, loans and tax cuts have protected thousands of businesses and millions of jobs, setting us up for recovery.

"Already our nationwide network of Work Coaches have moved in to support jobseekers across sectors and match them with employers who are recruiting.

"By responding to the needs of communities across the UK they will be at the heart of our revival and renewal, helping people find new roles and move forward with their lives."