Figures from the Office of National Statistics show that unemployment rose by 64.8% in Brighton & Hove in the year to May 2009. However, this rise was not as bad as those for East and West Sussex who saw increases of 98% and 155% respectively.
Cllr. Mears said: "We shouldn't forget that behind these bald statistics lie real life stories of families being put into turmoil by husbands, wives, partners, mums and dads losing jobs. This is a real tragedy and as a Council we should do everything we can to cushion the blow and help people get back on their feet."
Brighton & Hove City Council has put in place a comprehensive recession relief package to try and help local businesses and residents get through the worst of the downturn. This includes:
· Launching a "Be Local Buy Local" campaign to support local retailers
· Launching the Business Lifebelt scheme to offer practical assistance and advice to firms in the City.
· Promoting the uptake of small business rate relief
· Paying small businesses for goods and services within 10 days
· Offering small businesses the option of monthly rental payments
· Offering businesses the option of paying rates in 12 instalments rather than 10
· Creating a recession 'taskforce' with local businesses to look in more depth at what we can do.
Cllr. Mears added: "I am cautiously optimistic for the future of the City as we slowly start to see signs of emerging from recession. Our tourism industry for example remains very strong and this is key to the success of the local economy overall. However, I am by no means complacent and it is vital that we plan now to encourage new businesses to locate and remain in Brighton & Hove so that new jobs are there for people who need them."
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