Rochdale Jobcentre gears up for a busy year amid rising unemployment

Jobcentre Plus in Rochdale is preparing for a challenging but optimistic year as local unemployment figures show significant increases across various age groups.

Christine English, partnership manager for Rochdale, Middleton, and Heywood Jobcentres, shared the latest updates and outlined plans to support job seekers in the area.

She said: “We’re looking forward to another successful year. Although Rochdale’s total claimant count has increased by 17%, for those aged 18-24, we see an increase of 10%, and for those aged 50+, an increase of 24% compared to this time last year.

"This rise may reflect the end of seasonal jobs. Our priority remains to build excellent partnerships with local businesses so we can help fill their vacancies with the right people.”

She emphasised the wide range of support available for job seekers, adding: “Our work coaches offer access to training and voluntary work experience. We also provide in-house sessions for those aged 50+, such as midlife MOTs and pension pathways. These, along with specialist services through Disability Employment Advisors, can act as a springboard to a new career."

The demand for workers remains strong across multiple sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and education. Partnerships with local employers such as Harvester Winston Churchill, Rougheds Driving, North West Ambulance Service, and FT Terrix Business are key to matching job seekers with available roles.

In education, a Sector Work-Based Academy with Chalk Education is helping to fill Level 2 Teaching Assistant vacancies across Rochdale and Greater Manchester.

A highlight of the new year was the jobs fair held on 14 January at Rochdale AFC’s Crown Oil Arena. Jointly organised by Rochdale AFC Community Trust, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and Rochdale Borough Council (Rochdale Work and Skills), the event attracted over 600 job seekers eager to explore employment opportunities.

The fair brought together a diverse range of employers and support services, allowing attendees to connect directly with recruiters and receive guidance on training, apprenticeships, and further education. English said the event showcased the power of collaboration to create meaningful employment opportunities.

Employers from across the borough participated, representing sectors ranging from healthcare to education. Attendees had the chance to speak with recruiters, gain insights into job requirements, and explore available roles.

In addition to employer stalls, DWP and Rochdale Work and Skills offered advice and resources to support job seekers in their career journeys. Many attendees left the event with job offers or renewed confidence in their employment prospects.

The success of the event has sparked optimism for future initiatives aimed at bolstering Rochdale’s local workforce. Plans are already underway for additional career fairs and community programmes to further strengthen the connection between job seekers and employers, contributing to a more resilient local economy.

Moving Forward

With unemployment on the rise, initiatives like the Crown Oil Arena jobs fair demonstrate the importance of collaboration between local organisations and businesses. Jobcentre Plus remains committed to supporting Rochdale’s workforce through targeted training, strong employer partnerships, and tailored services for job seekers of all ages.