UK Jobs Shortage List: Which Sectors Need Workers the Most?

Britain is facing a tough challenge in competing on the global stage unless it significantly improves the skills of its workforce. A recent study highlights that sectors like technology, banking, and medicine are particularly vulnerable to a shortage of highly skilled workers. The report, published by recruitment firm Hays, places the UK among the top five countries dealing with talent shortages, alongside New Zealand, Portugal, Canada, and Switzerland.

The study emphasizes the “pressing need” for the UK to tackle these skills shortages, which have worsened over recent years due to several factors.

Nigel Kirkham, the chief executive of enterprise solutions at Hays, pointed out, “For the UK to remain competitive globally, it’s essential that we have a steady supply of talent with the right skills.” One of the ways to address this gap is through the skilled worker visa, which allows employers to recruit from abroad. Let’s delve deeper into how this visa works.

What is a Skilled Worker Visa?

The skilled worker visa was introduced back in 2020. It was designed to help employers in the UK bring in skilled workers from outside the country to fill job vacancies. The visa also allows these workers to bring their families along to the UK.

The standard minimum salary required to qualify for this visa is £38,700, but under certain conditions, people can be granted visas for jobs that pay at least £30,960 and between 70% and 90% of the going rate for the job.

These visas can last for up to five years, and in many cases, they can be renewed indefinitely. However, it’s worth noting that workers on this visa aren’t entitled to most benefits and don’t become eligible for a state pension.

Which Sectors are on the Shortage List?

The UK’s immigration salary list outlines the occupations that are in short supply. This list plays a key role in making it easier for employers to sponsor skilled non-UK workers under the skilled worker visa.

Here are some of the key sectors and roles currently listed:

• Managers and Proprietors in Forestry, Fishing, and Related Services: Specifically, “fishing boat masters.”
• Chemical Scientists: Limited to jobs in the nuclear industry.
• Biological Scientists: All roles within this category.
• Social and Humanities Scientists: Specifically, archaeologists.
• Graphic and Multimedia Designers: All positions.
• Laboratory Technicians: Only jobs requiring three or more years of relevant experience. Importantly, this experience must not have been gained through illegal work.
• Pharmaceutical Technicians: All roles.
• Artists: All positions.
• Dancers and Choreographers: Only skilled classical ballet dancers or contemporary dancers meeting the standards required by internationally recognized UK ballet or dance companies, which must be endorsed by a UK industry body like the Arts Councils.
• Musicians: Only skilled orchestral musicians, including leaders, principals, and other specific positions within internationally recognized UK orchestras.
• Arts Officers, Producers, and Directors: All roles.
• Agriculture and Fishing Trades: Specifically, jobs in the fishing industry.
• Welding Trades: High integrity pipe welders with three or more years of related on-the-job experience.
• Boat and Ship Builders and Repairers: All positions.
• Stonemasons and Related Trades: All roles.
• Bricklayers: All positions.
• Roofers, Roof Tilers, and Slaters: All roles.
• Carpenters and Joiners: All positions.
• Construction and Building Trades: Specifically, retrofitters.
• Care Workers and Home Carers: All roles, except those with a working location in England that require registration with the Care Quality Commission.
• Senior Care Workers: All positions, with similar location-based conditions as care workers.
• Animal Care Services: Specifically, roles like racing grooms, stallion handlers, and stud handlers.
• Fishing and Other Elementary Agriculture Occupations: Specifically, deckhands on large fishing vessels requiring at least three years of full-time experience.

Why is the UK Facing a Skilled Worker Shortage?

The UK’s struggle to maintain a sufficient number of skilled workers stems from several factors. A major issue is the chronic underinvestment in training by both companies and the government. The rising cost of living also plays a role, as it makes it harder for individuals to afford training or to take the financial risk of switching careers, especially if it involves a pay cut.

Brexit had a significant impact, with many workers from EU countries returning home. Moreover, improving living standards in some Eastern European countries have closed the pay gap between them and the UK, making it less attractive for skilled workers to migrate to Britain.

The COVID-19 pandemic also exacerbated the problem, leading to a rise in economically inactive people of working age, including those with chronic illnesses who can no longer work. The backlog and capacity constraints in the NHS have only added to this issue.

Additionally, the UK has an ageing population, with 19.17% of the population aged over 65 as of 2022. This means nearly a fifth of the population, many of whom are skilled, is above retirement age, further shrinking the workforce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a skilled worker visa holder bring their family to the UK?
Yes, the skilled worker visa allows you to bring your spouse or partner and children with you to the UK.

2. How long does the skilled worker visa last, and can it be renewed?
The skilled worker visa can last up to five years and can often be renewed indefinitely, allowing for extended stays in the UK.

3. What is the minimum salary required for a skilled worker visa?
The standard minimum salary for a skilled worker visa is £38,700, though in certain circumstances, visas can be granted for jobs paying at least £30,960.

The UK’s ability to remain competitive on the world stage is deeply connected to its workforce. As the country grapples with a shortage of skilled workers, solutions like the skilled worker visa play a crucial role in bridging the gap. Understanding which sectors are most in need and the factors contributing to these shortages is key for both employers and job seekers.