Introduction
Jo Thompson Recruitment contributes to the monthly UK Report on Jobs, produced by KPMG and the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) and compiled by S&P Global. Drawing on survey responses from recruitment consultancies and employers across the UK, the report provides one of the earliest and most respected indicators of labour market activity.
The June report offers cautious optimism. Temporary recruitment has recorded its strongest growth since April 2023, while the decline in permanent hiring continues to ease. Although employers remain cautious about long-term recruitment decisions, many are progressing projects using temporary and contract staff. At the same time, an increase in candidate availability is creating opportunities for employers ready to recruit strategically.
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June at a Glance
📈 Temporary recruitment records its strongest growth for more than three years
📊 Permanent recruitment continues to stabilise
💷 Starting salaries and temporary pay improve nationally
👥 Candidate availability remains high as redundancies continue
🏢 Employers continue to prioritise flexibility and careful hiring decisions
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What We’re Seeing at JTR
The findings closely reflect the conversations we’re having with employers across the South of England.
Recruitment activity is continuing, but organisations are taking a measured and considered approach. Permanent recruitment processes are often taking longer, with additional approval stages and greater scrutiny around budgets. Temporary recruitment continues to provide organisations with the flexibility to deliver projects, manage fluctuating workloads and access specialist skills without making long-term commitments.
Although candidate availability has increased, experienced professionals with proven track records remain in demand and continue to receive multiple approaches. Employers who move efficiently and provide a positive candidate experience remain best placed to secure the strongest talent.
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South of England Focus
Across the South of England, temporary recruitment remained resilient throughout June, with demand for contingent workers continuing at a healthy pace.
Permanent hiring also showed encouraging signs of stabilisation, although employers remained cautious when making longer-term recruitment decisions.
Increasing candidate availability and softer market conditions have placed downward pressure on salary growth across some sectors, creating opportunities for employers who are ready to recruit while the market remains competitive.
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JTR Expert View
“Although uncertainty remains, we’re beginning to see employers move from delaying recruitment decisions to making carefully considered hires.
Organisations that continue investing in talent during uncertain periods are often the ones best positioned when confidence returns.
For employers, this is an excellent opportunity to secure experienced professionals who may not have been available twelve months ago.”
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Employer Tip of the Month
Don’t confuse a larger candidate pool with an easier recruitment process.
The best candidates still have choices.
A streamlined recruitment process, competitive salary and benefits, clear communication and a positive candidate experience remain critical if you want to attract and secure top talent.
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Candidate Insight
If you’re considering a career move, don’t assume opportunities have disappeared.
While employers are recruiting more selectively, demand remains strong for professionals who can demonstrate measurable achievements, adaptability and transferable skills.
Now is an excellent time to ensure your CV and LinkedIn profile clearly showcase your value and career achievements.
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Labour Market Snapshot
Indicator June Trend
Temporary Recruitment ▲ Strongest growth since April 2023
Permanent Recruitment ► Continuing to stabilise
Salary Growth ▲ Improving nationally
Candidate Availability ▲ High
Employer Confidence ► Cautiously improving
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