THE FOREST of Dean has been named among the strongest performing areas for employment in the South West, according to newly released figures.

Data for February 2026 shows there were 35,915 people on payroll across the district, marking a 0.3 per cent increase compared to the same month last year.

The figures, based on analysis of the latest Office for National Statistics data by employment and pay app WageSight, point to a steady but modest improvement in the local jobs market.

Although month-on-month growth remained unchanged at 0.0 per cent, employers in the Forest reported a slight rise of 13 people on payroll during February, suggesting some renewed confidence in hiring.

Over the past 12 months, the total number of employees has increased by 111, reinforcing a gradual upward trend despite wider economic uncertainty.

Compared with other local authorities in the South West, the Forest ranks fifth out of 27 areas for employment change, placing it among the region’s stronger performers.

The figures reflect a mixed picture across the South West as a whole, with some areas seeing growth in payroll numbers while others continue to face pressures linked to the wider economy.

Across the UK, employment levels have also fluctuated over the past year, creating a challenging backdrop for businesses and jobseekers alike.

Paul Hebden, Director at WageSight, said: “Employment in Forest of Dean has improved over the past year, and recent data points to a more positive outlook: The key question now is whether employers can sustain this momentum in the months ahead.”

Despite the positive signs, analysts caution that it is still too early to determine whether the recent changes represent the beginning of a sustained recovery or simply a short-term fluctuation.

However local employers continue to maintain and gradually grow their workforce in uncertain conditions.