Despite the improvement in confidence in the UK economy half of UK employers have expressed concerns over the availability of suitable candidates.

These concerns are showing a marked rise the same period last year (up 8%) as reported in this month’s Jobs Outlook report from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).

The report highlights that the sectors that were of particular concern were roles in the public service areas of health and social care and education. Those who recruit temporary workers, also shared this concern with two thirds (66%) of employers also worried about the availability of candidates, this was up from 32% in the same period last year.

The proportion of employers who believe economic conditions in the UK are getting better has continued to remain positive for the second consecutive rolling quarter. 32% of employers, up 2 points from last month are feeling more confident in the future prospects of the UK economy. Confident employers want to grow, but are held back from the lack of candidate availability.

REC’s director of policy Tom Hadley said: “Itis great to see that employers are feeling more confident in making hiring decisions within their businesses. However there is a growing concern with the lack of candidates available for key roles, this is one of the biggest challenges facing the UK jobs market”.

“With skills needs and candidate expectations continuing to evolve, employers are having to innovate to attract the right people, particularly when competition between businesses for candidates is intensifying.”

“Itis encouraging to see employers continue to feel more optimistic about the UK economy which has translated in to having a positive impact on hiring intentions for both permanent and temporary staff.”

Notes.

JobsOutlook Survey is produced by the REC in partnership with ComRes.

ComRes Data tables are available at www.comresglobal.com

You can view the REC press release in full here.