Basingstoke MP Maria Miller has emphasised the importance of helping those in unemployment find work in 2021 after the economic difficulties faced this year.

Maria said, ‘Since March 2020, claimants of Universal Credit have risen sharply as the Coronavirus pandemic has shaken our economy. As we move into 2021, it remains the Government’s top priority to protect people’s jobs during Coronavirus and support those looking to return to employment.

‘Local groups in Basingstoke are doing fantastic work to support people and business in this tough time. Alongside the support that Job Centre Plus continue to give to people seeking work, I recently met with the M3 Job Club to discuss their fantastic voluntary work helping people find work. The process of finding a job can really take its toll and leave people feeling isolated, so it’s great to see community groups like the M3 Job Club offer its professional skills to help people find work.’

‘The Government has already taken extraordinary measures to protect jobs, including extending the furlough scheme until March 2021, providing help to the self-employed and offering a range of business grants and loans. I also really welcome the Government’s Kickstart scheme which has provided funding to create thousands of job placements for 16 - 24 year olds on Universal Credit.’