
Stagflation fears deepen as UK jobs market continues to weaken – ONS
The latest figures showed UK unemployment increased to 5% from 4.9%, while job vacancies declined to around 705,000, the lowest level since early 2021.

The latest figures showed UK unemployment increased to 5% from 4.9%, while job vacancies declined to around 705,000, the lowest level since early 2021.

Opinium and British Retail Consortium found that younger unemployed people were the group most in need additional Government support.

James Cockett said: “Today’s fall in unemployment marks a reprieve from the recent doom and gloom. However, it’s likely that this will be short-lived."

Payrolled employees fall year on year while unemployment edges up to 5.2%.

Research showed that 71% of respondents said the high cost of smart workwear stopped them from buying suitable clothes for interviews and work.

Labour and employment costs ranked as a top concern for 84% of finance chiefs, up from 21% last July.

The UK-based provider said it is seeing a surge in adults seeking to upskill or reskill in response to changing labour market conditions.

Employment rate for people aged 16 to 64 was estimated at 75.1% from September to November 2025.

Spending fell by around 20% in the first few months after losing a job, with only a third of lost earnings made up by higher benefits.

The inquiry, backed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), comes as almost one million young people are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

James Cockett said: “It’s clear the Government needs to take stronger action to support young people in securing valuable training and employment opportunities."

In August to October 2025, payrolled employees dropped by 113,000 over the year and by 24,000 over the quarter.
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