UK workers expect more layoffs in 2025: LiveCareer survey
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — A recent survey by LiveCareer has revealed an outlook for the UK labor market in 2025, with workers expressing deep concerns over job security and employment prospects.
The report, which surveyed 1,007 UK workers on February 14 using Pollfish, paints a picture of a market expected to decline further this year.
Workforce predicts market downturn
More than half of the respondents (56%) believe the UK labor market will worsen in 2025, with 58% predicting fewer job openings and 61% expecting job searching to become more difficult compared to 2024.
“The workforce has inside knowledge of their employer’s overall financial health, stability, and are a good judge of what’s to come, for example, if layoffs are imminent,” Jasmine Escalera, career expert for LiveCareer, said in a press release.
“We should take heed and consider this a warning for what’s to come in 2025.”
Remote work under threat
Seventy-five percent of respondents expect more companies to implement return-to-office (RTO) mandates in 2025. This trend is concerning for workers who value flexible work arrangements, as 51% believe there will be fewer remote work opportunities available. The future of remote work seems uncertain, with many workers doubting its continuation on a broad scale.
Economic pressures mounting
Seventy-nine percent feel that UK salaries are not keeping pace with inflation and the cost of living. Salary and benefits remain the top consideration for 76% of job seekers. However, the economic environment makes it challenging to secure a salary that covers rising expenses.
As the UK workforce braces for a tougher year ahead, concerns about job security, economic instability, and wage stagnation dominate the landscape. The survey highlights the need for employers to address these concerns and adapt to the evolving labor market dynamics to support their workforce effectively.
