I
n the three months to August 2025, unemployment and employment levels both increased, the number of people recorded as being economically inactive rose while the rate stayed the same, and wage growth in the private sector has continued to slow.
Vacancy Numbers Plateau and Unemployment Levels Rise to Highest Level in 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.
-
‘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.