A FALL in the number of people who are out of work in the region gives "huge scope for optimism", it has been claimed.
The latest figures, for March, show a decrease in the number of people who are claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), or who are not in work and are claiming Universal Credit (UC), in Hull and the East Riding.
In Hull, the total claimant count for the month was 6,885, which is 1,135 fewer than the same period last year.
The figure for the East Riding was 2,985, a 14 per cent decrease on last year's total.
Gill Dillon, employer and partnership manager for Jobcentre Plus in Hull, said: "For both local authorities, there are also fewer people claiming JSA or UC and not in employment, than the previous month, too.
"For Hull, the figure is down by 180, or 2.5 per cent and in the East Riding, the figure is down by 115, or 3.7 per cent.
"It is good to see fewer claimants in the month and across the year as well."
In the 18 to 24 years bracket, the change on year shows a 21 per cent reduction for Hull and a 27 per cent reduction for the East Riding.
Ms Dillon said there are currently a range of job vacancies being advertised, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors.
Hull City Councillor Martin Mancey, portfolio holder for energy city with responsibility for employment, said: "We are delighted our city has had the highest year-on-year reduction of JSA and UC claimants in England and the third highest in the UK, with more than 1,300 more people in work since last March.
"The local situation gives huge scope for optimism. We have a solid commitment to supporting people back into work and have consulted with new employers in Hull to create bespoke training and relevant work experience opportunities for jobseekers.
"With the combined Siemens and ABP investment, aspirations have been raised and the launch of our Pathways to Employment programme at the Green Port Hub in Central Library offers those interested in the manufacturing sector the chance to develop the skills required.
"Other crucial investments by RB, Spencers and the University of Hull demonstrate the confidence investors are currently having in our city, improving the skills base and creating well-rewarded jobs."