A new business has joined a family of small enterprises as MacArthur Recruitment joins the Carlisle Ambassadors.

The announcement of the move was made last week, with the new member of the Ambassadors taking the time to also give their two pence on the issues facing recruitment today, namely the cost of living crisis and the creative ways in which SMEs in the county are working towards a brighter future.

Ewen Alcorn, from MacArthur Recruitment, explained the decision to join the Ambassadors: “I have been once before and it was a very positive, friendly environment.

“Post-Covid we want to get back out there and be involved with the county more.

“We hope to build lasting relationships and gain a further understanding of what’s important to Cumbria and the surrounding area.”

On the question asking if the so-called cost of living crisis has affected recruitment, he said: “I don’t think it’s affected things hugely, yet.

“I’m not sure we’re at crisis stage yet although that may change.

“Professional services and jobs that require specific qualifications and skills are the most hit.

“Construction is struggling too.

“There has been a skills shortage in Cumbria since we started here in 2016, it has gotten worse - Covid and leaving the EU being two of the factors.”

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Households are struggling under the weight of prices that are increasing faster than at any point in more than a generation.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to 9% in the year to April, up from an already high 7 per cent in March.

It was the fastest measured rate since records began in 1989, and the ONS estimates it was the highest since 1982.

A large portion of the rise was due to the price cap on energy bills, which was hiked by 54 per cent for the average household at the start of April.

On how it will affect the Cumbrian economy, Ewen said: “It’ll reduce growth and national competitiveness.

“However, talking to local businesses, they are looking at creative ways to attract and retain people.”

Explaining what businesses can do, he said: “Be creative in the benefits package, flexible working, being inclusive, look at job-share and part-time opportunities, upskilling and further training.”

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