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Latest Government figures have revealed that one in four of the UK’s working population is currently out of work. 

This comes after Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated one of his priorities is to get more of the 1.65 million unemployed and 7.9 million economically inactive people back into work.  

Already, the REC is working closely with JobCentre Plus on both national and regional levels in order to harness the contribution of the private sector recruitment industry in helping to identify job opportunities. 

Responding to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics, Tom Hadley, the REC’s Director of External Relations said: “The figures confirm that there is a massive opportunity for getting more people into work which will be of benefit not just to those individuals but also to employers and taxpayers. 

“The recruitment industry can have a key role to play within this context; and REC members are already working in co-operation with JobCentre Plus and are involved in pro-active initiatives such as the Fair Cities Scheme.” 

He continued: “The REC’s monthly Report on Jobs confirms that staff shortages continue to bite into a number of sectors and regions. Ensuring that those currently inactive in the labour market receive the right guidance and training is essential and the recruitment industry is committed to playing its part by helping to place jobseekers, who have developed the necessary skills and have a desire to break into the labour market."

 The REC is consistently highlighting the opportunities that temporary work provides as a way into the labour market and as a means of helping individuals to boost their confidence in the world of work. One practical concern is that individuals are understandably reluctant to risk existing benefits for what might be for temporary placements. The REC is currently discussing this issue with the Department of Work and Pensions. 

On this last point, Hadley concludes: “Research shows that temporary work provides a vital first step into the labour market and it is important to address any obstacles which might prevent this from happening. Flexible forms of working such as temporary work will play a key role in helping the Government to achieve its ambitious target of 80 per cent full employment in the UK.”