WS News
15 Sep 2026, 06:21
UK Jobless Claims Jump in August, Unemployment Rate Holds at 4.9%
The UK labor market sent mixed signals, as unemployment remained below expectations while jobless claims rose sharply.
The claimant count increased by 27,800 in August, well above the 8,300 expected and reversing the previous 11,800 decline. Meanwhile, employment increased by 67,000 in the three months through July, slowing from 83,000 previously.
The unemployment rate held at 4.9% in July, slightly better than the 5.0% forecast. Overall, the figures suggest the UK labor market remains relatively resilient but is showing signs of softer hiring conditions.
The UK labor market sent mixed signals, as unemployment remained below expectations while jobless claims rose sharply.
The claimant count increased by 27,800 in August, well above the 8,300 expected and reversing the previous 11,800 decline. Meanwhile, employment increased by 67,000 in the three months through July, slowing from 83,000 previously.
The unemployment rate held at 4.9% in July, slightly better than the 5.0% forecast. Overall, the figures suggest the UK labor market remains relatively resilient but is showing signs of softer hiring conditions.
