Our quarterly economic downturn briefing paper (PDF, 232kb) examines how the current economic climate is affecting the West Midlands in terms of skills and the labour market as a whole.
Key headlines for quarter three 2009
There are tentative signs of an upturn in the economy and labour market.
The gap between the claimant rate in the West Midlands and England has grown, indicating the more severe impact of the recession in this region.
The number of job vacancies notified to Jobcentre Plus across the region has increased but trends vary widely by sector and occupation.
More firms are planning to invest in training and upskilling over the coming months.
Download the December 2009 economic downturn briefing paper (PDF, 232kb)