Active job postings remain stable

The number of active job postings across the UK has remained stable for the last three months, suggesting that demand isn’t slowing.

This is according to the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and Lightcast’s latest Labour Market Tracker, which found that in the week of 14-20 November, there were over 1.4 million active job adverts.

During this week, there were 216,257 new job postings – 40.6% higher compared to the previous month.

The report also showed that there were notable increases in job adverts for:

• Energy Plant Operatives (+38.1%)
• Shopkeepers and Proprietors – Wholesale and Retail (+18.8%)
• Cleaners and Domestics (+14.3%)

Commenting on the findings, Neil Carberry, Chief Executive of the REC, said, “While the data fluctuates from week to week, new jobs postings have averaged about the same level through the year, suggesting a pattern of strong and stable demand.

“Despite a wider narrative of concern about the economy, this reflects feedback from recruiters across the country who are saying that shortages mean demand is remaining high even as growth diminishes. It is worth noting that some of the strength in today’s figures is seasonal, however, with demand up in retail ahead of Christmas, and energy ahead of the winter.

“Last month’s Autumn Statement was a missed opportunity to help tackle skills shortages by reforming the Apprenticeship Levy. Making funding more flexible so businesses can use it for high quality shorter training courses and non-apprenticeship schemes would be a win-win for industry, workers and government.

“Businesses are also crying out for immigration that allows them to fill roles and fuel the economic growth we all want – addressing our labour shortage. Something has got to give – governments must make longer term skills and workforce planning a priority. Recruiters stand ready to play their part in that.”

To find out more about contracting please contact Amelia on 01206 591 000 or email amelia.bowlez@contractorumbrella.com.