The number of vacancies in the three months to August rose above one million for the first time since records began in 2001.
Figures also showed employee numbers were back at pre-Covid levels in August, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
Firms are currently facing an “acute hiring crisis”
Siren Thiru, Head of Economic at the British Chambers of Commerce
Business groups said, however, despite the return of staffing levels to pre-pandemic rates there remained high demand for more staff, and there was a risk labour shortages would dampen growth.
Siren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce said, however, that firms were currently facing an “acute hiring crisis”.
And Yael Selfin, chief economist at KPMG, warned that there could be more pain to come.
“While the pressure should ease as more people look to return to work and the furlough scheme ends, the UK labour market is set to remain choppy with vacancies taking time to fill due to skills shortages and reduced availability of overseas workers,” she said.
It is interesting to see the level of unfilled vacancies currently in the UK, despite the high quality of the UK’s education system. The disconnect between industry needs and what education delivers has never been more apparent.
As the number of job vacancies in the UK has hit a record high, it is evident that the UK must be sourcing top talent from overseas. The Skilled Worked visa programme is designed for individuals of all nationalities, who have an offer of an eligible skilled job in the UK, from a Home Office-approved sponsor. This route can lead to settlement and permanent residency in the UK, for individuals, their partners, and children under 18-years-old.
If you are seeking employment in the UK and have the required skills, we can help. We offer an end-to-end service, from initial application, and matching your skill set to an appropriate job role, to permanent residency and beyond. We will be there every step of the way to ensure the process is a smooth as possible.