Coronavirus: More job vacancies in some parts of UK despite crisis, research shows
While most of the country sees growing unemployment due to virus-related shutdowns of businesses, some parts are seeing growth.
Friday 22 May 2020 09:55, UK
There has been a surge in job vacancies in some parts of the UK despite the overall impact on jobs due to the coronavirus crisis, research has shown.
According to the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), the number of job adverts has increased in rural areas such as South Norfolk, Omagh and Moray.
The number of job vacancies in Breckland and South Norfolk in the East of England grew by 8.7% week-on-week between the start and middle of May.
Many areas of Scotland and the North East also saw an increase.
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Among those in demand are roofers, security guards and NHS staff - particularly health professionals, pharmacists and nurses.
The largest weekly falls in vacancies were in the South West and North West.
REC chief executive Neil Carberry said: "Health and social care workers being in high demand isn't a surprise, but as more workplaces start to reopen, we are likely to see similar trends emerging for other roles.
"The increase in job adverts for cleaners and security guards could be the first sign of this.
"It's encouraging to see growth in many areas of northeast England, and hopefully other regions will start to follow in the coming weeks.
"The economy will begin to bounce back from COVID-19 in the coming months, as businesses start to hire again."
Minister for employment Mims Davies said: "As we begin to reopen sectors of our economy, it's welcome news that businesses are kick-starting recruitment efforts across the UK including in rural areas.
"While the full impact of COVID-19 is yet to play out, our new Job Help site is there to support anyone looking for work right now, with thousands of roles available."