Jobseekers are being encouraged to consider taking a summer job as a way to get themselves permanently back into work.
The call comes as new benefits claims figures show yet another rise across the board in the numbers of people claiming benefits year-on-year for June.
Another rise in the number of benefits claims has been recorded.
In the Moray Council local authority area, overall there was a three per cent rise – up 45 to 1365 – in June compared to the same month last year.
There was also a rise in the 18-24-year-old category, the figures climbing slightly to 205 from 200, an upward tick of two percent.
There was good news to be had, however, among the over-50s where a fall of three per cent, down to 345 from 355 at the same point in 2025, was recorded.
The benefits claims figures include both those in work and those looking for a job.
Charlene Bell, Employer Relationship Leader, from the Department of Work and Pensions’ Moray Jobcentres, urged jobseekers to consider the possible benefits of taking on a seasonal role.
Minister for Employment Alison McGovern MP.
She said: “During the busy summer season, jobcentres are focussed on working with employers to increase the supply of new workers to help fill their vacancies, with roles in manufacturing and retail available.
“Planning is also under way for our next multi-sector jobs fair in Elgin.
“Taking up the opportunity of a summer jobs can be a stepping stone for jobseekers to building lifelong skills. They offer opportunities to gain valuable practical, hands-on experience work experience, develop essential transferable skills and potentially even explore different careers.
“Temporary jobs can boost a CV, demonstrating a work history, experience and willingness to learn, which can be valuable when applying for future roles.”
Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern added: “We are helping more people into work and putting more money in their pockets.
“With 384,000 more jobs added to the economy since last summer, real wages continuing to rise and – as these latest figures highlight – inactivity falling, we are all feeling the benefits.
“But we need to go further. Under our plan for change, jobcentres everywhere are changing to end the tick box culture and serve employers and those who need work better. For people in areas with the highest economic inactivity we are funding new work to make sure barriers to employment are removed.
“Alongside this we are fixing the social security system so it helps those who can work into employment whilst ensuring the safety net will always be there for those who need it.”