UNEMPLOYMENT rose slightly across Fife last month, according to the latest DWP figures.

A total of 7,730 people in the Kingdom are now claiming Universal Credit which is five per cent – a total of 390 – more than the same period last year.

DWP External Relations Leader, Jen Ferguson, said the figures reflected the picture across the country.

"We are seeing a bit of a rise across Scotland. We have the legacy benefit customers moving to Universal Credit so we expected that to happen," she said.

"There are a few things going on in Dunfermline. We are working with Fife council and Life Chances Opportunity for entry level jobs. What Fife Council is doing is bypassing the normal process of recruitment and making the process simpler for customers and applicants."

READ MORE: Dunfermline restaurant owners set to open new eatery across Forth

The DWP are supporting Fife College with a care event in Kirkcaldy on November 20 while a new career in Childcare virtual event will take place this Saturday (November 16).

Attendees will have the chance to meet the SCMA team and ask questions about becoming a childminder and hear from others that have made the switch. The event can be accessed via the Skills Development Scotland website.

Online recruitment events will also be held on November 14 and 28 which will be promoted on X.

Jen added: “What better Christmas present to receive than a new job. With a wide variety of roles available across all sectors of the labour market now is the perfect time to apply. Whether looking for a new career or a first foot on the ladder, there is something out there for everyone. Why not have a look, by searching our DWP Find a Job website, which has thousands of jobs on offer.

“With events coming up in November there is no better way of discovering a new career."