PfP Thrive response to ONS jobs data

This week’s latest ONS data pointed to new challenges amongst the job market. PfP Thrive’s Managing Director, Tom Arey delves deeper into the data to see what it means for our sector. 

"We see this week's jobs data not just as a challenge, but as an opportunity. With unemployment rising and vacancies falling, now is the time to nurture this growing cohort of people seeking work by opening up high-quality apprenticeships and training pathways, particularly in construction and housing, where the skills gap remains acute.

“The granular data from the Office for National Statistics (released on 14th October) compounds this, showing employment in our sector fell in this last quarter from 44,000 to 47,000 - meaning there are now 3,000 more people out of work whose last role was in construction.

“While this is less than the national average, and nowhere near what was seen in economic downturns, any decline is worrying in a sector that needs to attract unemployed people to plug the skills gap.

“A key route to this is through apprenticeships; apprenticeships are not  just for young people, but a route for anyone looking to retrain, reskill, and build a sustainable career. We must broaden the conversation and give people of all ages the chance to learn, earn, and thrive.

“What’s more concerning is the decline in the number of vacancies available. The latest figures show that vacancies fell by 9,000 in the three months to September it was particularly acute in construction which had the largest percentage decrease among sectors, down 25.9% year-on-year (ONS stats: July–Sept 2025 vs. same period 2024).  This data suggests the fall in vacancies is not simply because all roles are filled but businesses are posting fewer jobs, particularly in sectors under pressure - namely construction and housing.

“On a positive note, it's encouraging to see more over-65s remaining in work. This experienced generation has a vital role to play in mentoring and training the next wave of talent, passing on invaluable knowledge and craft - something our industry, and the country, cannot afford to lose.

“These trends once again underline the urgent need for accessible training pathways to build a skilled workforce for the future.If we’re determined to tackle this skills challenge, businesses need the capital and confidence to invest in skills and job creation. Giving employers the freedom to be agile will help drive growth and deliver the skilled workforce the UK urgently needs.”