In the three months to February 2025, wage growth across the economy showed signs of plateauing but remains strong, unemployment and employment levels both increased, while inactivity fell but is still stubbornly high.
Employment and unemployment levels continue to rise, while vacancies fall to lowest level in almost four years
Posted 1 year ago •
Related Articles
-
Unemployment falls while vacancies hit a new post- pandemic low
In the quarter to August 2026, employment rose, unemployment and inactivity decreased, and regular wage growth held firm. The youth unemployment rate dropped below 16% but remained significantly higher than the headline adult rate. Meanwhile, vacancies fell to their lowest level in five years in the quarter to September.
-
Young people continue to bear the brunt as hiring difficulties continue
In the quarter to July 2026, headline employment and unemployment held broadly as they were, and economic inactivity fell. Meanwhile, youth unemployment climbed to 16.4%, vacancies fell again, and regular pay growth held steady.
-
‘Low hire, low fire’ labour market dynamics persist, as vacancies continue to fall
In the quarter to June 2026, employment rose, headline unemployment fell and economic inactivity was broadly unchanged. Meanwhile, youth unemployment remained above 16%, vacancies fell again, and regular pay growth showed signs of resilience.