Event

Work Matters 2026: Can the UK labour market withstand renewed global volatility?

This event hosted by UK think tank the Work Foundation discuss what the labour market and inflation statistics mean for workers, employers and the economy in 2026.

Join the Work Foundation to discuss what the labour market and inflation statistics mean for workers, employers and the economy in 2026.

The UK labour market continues to struggle at a time of growing global uncertainty. Conflict in the Middle East has created fresh economic headwinds for workers, employers and policymakers, raising concerns about renewed pressure on growth, inflation and household finances.

Earnings are losing momentum just as another potential cost of living squeeze emerges. Nominal wage growth has slowed sharply to 3.8% with private sector workers seeing slower than average rises. Rising prices are likely to disproportionately affect low-paid and insecure workers, many of whom are still grappling with the legacy of the cost-of-living crisis earlier in the decade.

At the same time, unemployment has risen to a five-year high of 5.2%, while half of UK adults now identify employment as an important national issue. Youth unemployment is at the highest level in a decade and the unemployment levels for disabled people are twice the level of non-disabled workers.

These challenges put the Government’s promise to reduce the cost of living and Get Britain Working during the current Parliament at serious risk. Against this backdrop, what trade-offs do policymakers face in responding to domestic pressures amid global uncertainty?

Speakers

Emma Taggart – Economics Reporter, The Telegraph

Simon French – Chief Economist and Head of Research, Panmure Liberum

Dr Andrea Barry – Deputy Director for Work, Retirement, and Transitions, Centre for Ageing Better

Ben Harrison – Director, Work Foundation at Lancaster University