Half of firms in the South West plan to take on more staff this year, with the number of permanent jobs outstripping temporary work, according to the results of a survey today from the CBI.
Job prospects for young people in the region – who have been hardest hit in the downturn – have also improved with many of the 101 firms taking part in the survey planning to recruit graduates and apprentices.
The employment trends survey, conducted with and global management consultancy Accenture, found in the South West: 
- 40% of businesses plan to increase their permanent posts and 32% temporary
- 45% expect to increase their apprenticeship intake and 45% will recruit higher numbers of graduates
- 86% anticipate having roles suitable for young people aged 16-24 who are seeking work.
CBI South West director Deborah Waddell, pictured, said: “Firms in the South West are gearing up for a positive 2015 with over half planning to create jobs, most of which will be permanent.
“Young people should find more chances to get a foot on the career ladder this year, with many firms looking to boost their intake of graduates and apprentices.
“We want to see everyone enjoy the rewards of the recovery and the South West has a big role in driving the UK economy forward. Growth should work for everyone, and skills are the key route to ensuring that this happens through improved productivity and pay.”
Accenture UK and Ireland managing director Olly Benzecry added: “It’s important that growth works for everyone, which means regions throughout the UK benefitting from the economic recovery and employers opening up different and more inclusive routes into their workforces.
“It’s very encouraging to hear that businesses in the South West are planning to build their workforces in the future by taking on more young people, including apprentices.
“It is also good to note that, within this mix, companies are recognising that they can enhance their competitiveness by harnessing the digital capabilities of these young people.”
National findings of the survey show:
- 43% of firms are planning a pay rise in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI). There has been a small increase in the proportion of companies expecting to pay above RPI when compared with last year’s survey – 12% in 2014 compared to 7% in 2013
- Low level of skills (63%), closely followed by the burden of employment regulation (61%) are seen as the greatest workforce threats to UK competitiveness – most respondents believe this will still be the case in five years’ time (54%).
