Test Valley employment numbers stabilising after slump

New figures reveal that payroll numbers rose by 136 in February, following a challenging year for job growth in the region.

The latest data, based on Office for National Statistics figures and analysed by employment and pay app WageSight, show Test Valley had 61,986 employees on payroll for the month.

This is down 15 from February 2025, representing a year-on-year drop of just 15 employees.

Paul Hebden, director at WageSight, said: "Although employment in Test Valley remains lower than a year ago, recent month-on-month figures suggest some stabilisation in recent months.

"Whether this marks a genuine turning point or a temporary pause in job losses will become clearer over the next few months."

While overall employment remains slightly below last year, the recent monthly increase points to improving confidence among employers.

Test Valley currently ranks 25th out of 63 local authorities in the South East for employment change, placing it around the middle of the regional league table.

The mixed performance in Test Valley reflects broader trends across the South East, where some areas are seeing growth while others continue to face pressure on payroll numbers.

National data also show a patchy employment picture, with ongoing economic challenges creating a challenging backdrop for job growth.

The South East as a whole continues to experience a mixed jobs market.

Some local authorities have reported job gains while others have seen further declines in payroll numbers.