Latest figures showing the extent of furloughing and unemployment on the Isle of Wight as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak highlight the need for a comprehensive and effective recovery plan, MP Bob Seely has said.
As previously reported by Island Echo, up to 31st May 2020, 15,400 Island jobs had been furloughed through the Government’s Job Retention Scheme – equivalent to around 19% of the population aged 16-64 but marginally lower that the UK figure of 21%.
A further 6,100 claims were made to the Self Employment Income Support scheme, equivalent to 71% of the potentially eligible population and in line with the UK take-up rate.
The number claiming unemployment-related benefits was 5,580 in May 2020 – equivalent to 7.0% of the population aged 16-64 compared with the equivalent UK claimant rate of 6.4%. This is 855 higher than in April 2020 and 3,000 higher than March 2020, before the UK lockdown began.
While some of the increase in the claimant count will be due to Islanders who have become unemployed, some will also be due to employed people who have become eligible for Universal Credit as part of the government response.
Bob said the latest data highlighted both the necessity of the Government’s furlough scheme.
“As the Chancellor has said, the Government’s economic package in response to the COVID-19 outbreak is one of the most comprehensive anywhere in the world.
“Whilst remembering the devastating effects of COVID-19 to some families on the Island, we must also recognise the other impacts of this virus. Despite the plethora of financial support packages coming from the Government, COVID-19 has also cost thousands their jobs.
Article continues below this advertisement “We need to consider the needs of those now facing hardship and, with consideration to the rate of infection, look at how we can get our Island’s economy moving and get people back into work.
“I will work with the IW Council and others to look at how we can kick start the Island and support those in desperate need.”
Bob said he was continuing to discuss the local effects of COVID-19 with local business and community leaders on the Island, as well as lobbying Government for further support.
The island will bounce back I am sure, we all work hard here on the island. When the next election comes we can all work hard at voting in a different MP to represent us, the normal people of the island, instead of snuggling up to the council and the elite.
“Support those in need” Bob, come on Bob, if that were really the case, you would be visiting more small shops, long established local businesses that are not just tourist based. Maybe you might be a bit frightened at the moment because of your big local sausage mistake.
I see, so far, no comments ! ! !
I wonder why??
Is there any point?
Are we all ignoring anything Bob does?
Are we fed up with what he says and does?
I’m getting fed up with what they say as i still have no confidence in not just Bob, but the rest of them.
Some very scarey numbers here in this report, A bounce back will be a long way off, possibly years away.
That’s going to be really tough for an Island community with limited and seasonal employment.
This Year is almost written off in retail, holidays and leisure not far behind.
Batten down the hatches Southern Vectis.
Why would he want to help small businesses? The whole purpose of this flu like virus, was to take control of people and their small business and destroy their business, allowing big corporate to move in and control even more money to the top 1%. And you people are helping them. Bet you don’t post this one echo!