The UK job market is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with government figures revealing that certain occupations are expected to see a surge in demand while others face decline. New data spanning nearly a decade – from January 2017 to May 2026 – provides a granular analysis of labour market trends by occupation and region using the Standard Occupation Classification (SOC 2020) system.
The dataset, categorised according to SOC 2020, identifies specific sectors experiencing growth or decline in demand for labour. Policymakers, economists, and businesses can utilise this information to anticipate future workforce needs, inform career choices, and develop targeted training programmes. The inclusion of geographical data further highlights regional disparities and concentrations of job opportunities.
Breakdowns by occupation reveal that certain industries are set to see significant growth, while others may struggle to adapt to changing market conditions. For instance, online job adverts indicate a potential increase in demand for tech-related roles such as software developers, cloud engineers, and data scientists. Conversely, sectors like manufacturing and construction may face challenges due to automation and shifting consumer behaviour.
The lengthy timeframe of the dataset allows for the identification of long-term structural changes rather than just short-term fluctuations. This is particularly valuable for strategic planning, enabling proactive policy development and targeted interventions aimed at addressing labour market imbalances. The Labour Party has called for more targeted government intervention in skills development and regional economic growth – data of this nature could provide ammunition for their arguments.
The projections extending to 2026 are a significant addition to existing datasets, providing a comprehensive picture of the UK's employment ecosystem. Policymakers can use these findings to inform policy interventions aimed at boosting employment and reducing unemployment. Conversely, the Government may use the data to demonstrate the effectiveness of existing policies or justify new initiatives to address identified labour market imbalances.
The detailed breakdown by occupation and geography will be key to understanding the nuances of the UK's post-pandemic economic recovery and its long-term trajectory. As regional disparities in job opportunities become increasingly apparent, policymakers must consider targeted interventions to support areas facing skills shortages or declining industries.