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Posted 4 years ago •
The latest ONS data covers the period from September to November 2021, providing a snapshot of labour market activity as the UK economy opened up.
The latest data show continued signs of recovery in the labour market, with employment increasing, unemployment decreasing, and vacancies at a new record high.
In the quarter to April 2026, employment and inactivity levels rose, unemployment fell, vacancies continued to decline, and regular wage growth in the private sector slowed to its lowest level in over five years. Youth unemployment also remained concerningly high.
In the quarter to February 2026, the unemployment level and rate fell, employment levels rose slightly but the employment rate decreased, and wage growth continued to slow. There was also a notable uptick in economic inactivity, and vacancies have fallen even further.