Numbers of permanent placements and temporary/contract billings rose at faster rates in January, according to the latest Report on Jobs from the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC).

The report shows latest increases were the most marked for six and seven months respectively, while recruiters report increased staff appointments reflect a further rise in vacancy levels at employers with overall demand for staff growing at its fastest pace since June 2010. 

Meanwhile, the availability of staff to fill permanent jobs remained broadly stable in January, following a quarter of growth, while temporary/contract staff availability continued to improve at a marked pace.  

Kevin Green, REC chief executive, says: “As anticipated, this month’s Report on Jobs shows that economic activity accelerated in January with employers increasing their hiring, albeit not in large numbers. Employer confidence, which up until now has been fragile, is finally starting to harden. This is promising news but there is still a job to be done to ensure that all of society benefits from this renewed optimism.”