Fewer students are job- seeking, which has contributed to an unexpected fall in unemployment rate, according to a new study.
Unemployment fell to 4.9% this morning – despite Office for National Statistics (ONS) predictions that unemployment would remain at 5.2%.
Reports show that the number of university students who are looking for work alongside their studies has fallen. These students, who are not actively seeking employment, are therefore not counted in unemployment figures.
Rushath Gamag, an Economics and finance student at the University of Sheffield said: “I have important exams, I just don’t have time this year.”
But despite the number falling nationally, many Sheffield students are searching for part-time jobs alongside their studies, often in the hospitality or retail sector.
Luca Min, a first year student, who was successful in an application to a food court said: “ It wasn’t the first job I applied for, I applied to quite a few places.
“It’s hard for students to get a job in Sheffield.”
Hamish Walker, an economics student, agrees. He said: “There is a lot of competition for student part time jobs in the university area of the city.
“I look for jobs but I either can’t find one I can commute to or I find one and then get rejected.”
Matilda Hunter, a first year politics and International Relations student, said: “A weekly email comes from the University with part time jobs you can apply for, but they are often far away, sometimes even as far as meadowhall.
“I need the money as my parents aren’t supporting me financially so I have to fund my cost of living.”
In Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ budget last autumn she announced a rise in the national minimum wage which came into effect on April 1st this year.
The hourly rate for 18-20 year-olds rose by 85p, whilst workers over the age of 21 saw an hourly increase of 50p.
The University of Sheffield has a dedicated service which helps students find casual jobs that are flexible around studying. To find out more visit:Welcome to myJobshop – University Of Sheffield
