Ann Frances Cooney, an employment law partner at DWF leading the Scottish employment law practice, comments on today’s Labour Market Trends. She said:

“The latest labour market figures for Scotland show continued recovery with clear positive indicators of a downturn in unemployment and an upturn in employment.

“The headline figures for July to September 2021 show an estimated unemployment rate of 4.1%, down 0.2% over the quarter. By way of comparison, Scotland’s unemployment rate was slightly below the UK rate of 4.3%. The estimated employment rate was 74.8%, an increase of 0.6% over the quarter. Scotland’s employment rate was below the UK rate of 75.4%.

“This quarter’s figures represent a relatively buoyant time for the Scottish labour market with several restrictions eased on 9 August 2021. The repercussions following the closure of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from the end of September 2021 have yet to be reflected in the figures, creating an element of uncertainty as we look to the future of the labour market.

“As we look ahead to the challenges of the winter months, it is hoped that the relatively cautious approach taken by the Scottish government can continue to keep infection rates under control and reduce the need for further restrictions. As always, the key message for employers is to plan ahead. Employers should be engaging with their workforce to ensure everyone feels supported and able to navigate the challenges ahead. Against a backdrop of a war on talent, creating a foundation of trust within the workforce is more important than ever.”