United Kingdom Unemployment Rate

The United Kingdom’s unemployment rate rose to 4.4% from September to November 2024, compared to market estimates and 4.3% in the previous two periods. This marks the highest level since the three months ending in May, driven by an increase in individuals unemployed for up to 12 months. Compared to the same period in 2023, there was an increase in both those unemployed for up to 12 months and those unemployed for over 12 months. Meanwhile, the number of employed individuals rose by 35 thousand to 33.78 million, with year-on-year growth in full-time employees and self-employed workers. The number of people with second jobs also declined, now representing 3.7% of all employed individuals. Lastly, the economic activity rate edged lower to 21.6%, down from 21.7% in the preceding period.