Curated and analyzed by the JobGoneToAI team. Original reporting by somersetlive.co.uk.
UK Job Vacancies Hit Five-Year Low Amid Rising AI Use

— somersetlive.co.uk
Key Takeaway
Job vacancies in the UK have fallen to a five-year low, with a significant drop attributed to rising national insurance costs and the increasing use of AI. The number of vacancies has decreased by 16% compared to January 2025, indicating a challenging job market for seekers.
From the Original Report
News Job vacancies fall to five-year low thanks to NI and AI It is the first time advertised vacancies have dropped below 700,000 since January 2021 bristolpost Bookmark Share Comments News By Neil Shaw Assistant Editor 06:19, 23 FEB 2026 Bookmark The most searched-for jobs included healthcare support workers, warehouse staff, lorry drivers,
labourers and kitchen assistants Get the latest Somerset Live breaking news on WhatsApp Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time.
More info Join us on WhatsApp The number of job vacancies in the UK has fallen to a five-year low, approaching levels not seen since the pandemic, research suggests. The number of vacancies fell by 3% last month to 694,000, continuing a downward trend seen throughout late 2025, according to jobs site Adzuna.
The study indicated that it was the first time advertised vacancies had dropped below 700,000 since January 2021. Vacancies were down by 16% compared with January 2025, and by 19% since six months ago, said the report.
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Original Source
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