Claimant count, inflow and outflow, United Kingdom
The number of people claiming unemployment-related benefit in the UK fell for much of the 1990s, but has slowed more recently. It fell from 966,200 in December 2001 to 935,100 in December 2002. This was the lowest figure recorded since October 1975.
The claimant count remained level during the first quarter of 2002 but then fell slightly, particularly over the last three months of 2002. This reflects the slight improvement in the labour market in the latter part of the year, following stronger economic growth mid-year.
Claimant count, United Kingdom
Since the end of 1992 both the inflows into, and the outflows out of, the claimant count have declined, though both levelled off in 2001. The outflow increased slightly from 225,700 in December 2001 to around 228,500 at the end of 2002. In comparison, the inflow declined marginally from 229,700 to 227,900. Any increase in the overall claimant count would be expected to be preceded by an increase in inflows, as the economy slows and new claimants start to move onto benefit.
Source: Claimant count taken from Jobcentre Plus administrative system, Department for Work and Pensions
Notes: The claimant count measures the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefit (currently Job Seeker’s Allowance).
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