Latest data shows that the number of new job postings saw a slight rise compared to previous months.
May 2025 figures revealed new job postings in the UK were up by 0.3% from April, and total active posts remain above 1.4 million.
Commenting on the latest Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) / Lightcast monthly Labour Market Tracker, REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry said, “This month’s postings data reflects both anecdote from recruiters and the core ONS workforce jobs survey – that the labour market is more stuck than going backwards.
“Despite the headwinds of tax rises and lower growth, there seems to be some resilience. After a long jobs market slowdown, a second month of weak growth in new postings is a sign more of hope than concern.
“While the global growth picture is weaker than anyone would like, the UK is relatively well-positioned to take advantage of what opportunities there are. We are past the interest rate peak, the UK looks good value by comparison to the US, has banked progress on trade deals and has a stable legal and political picture for the next few years.
Need help deciding between Limited or Umbrella? We are happy to help- give Sophie a call on 01442 795 100 or email sophie.lewis@dolanaccountancy.com
“With interest rates staying steady and a possibility of reductions later this year, the challenge now is to build business confidence to invest. That is why it is crucial that this month’s announcements on infrastructure and the industrial strategy set a clear plan for growth that companies can get behind, and that there are no more nasty business tax surprises.
“You can’t tax and regulate your way to prosperity – it takes business growth. And getting our workforce policy right – as an economic essential, not just a rights issue – will be vital. With a troubling Employment Rights Bill, a big jobs tax increase and anti-business language about agency workers in some parts of government – there is a lot to change to get us there.
“Scotland and the South West of England are particularly notable in today’s numbers, with job listings rising in these regions, likely reflecting growing demand as we move into the summer tourist season. Although early trends suggest some market shifts, we cannot yet draw firm conclusions about summer hiring. The coming weeks will play a crucial role in shaping the full picture, and yes, the good weather will help.”
To find out more about contracting, please contact Zeeshan on 01206 591 000 or email zeeshan.anwar@contractorumbrella.com.
Trusted by over 1,200 employees |