The State of Surrey economy winter 2025 research reveals resident worries about work and employment. Extra support is now available from Surrey County Council after new data showed one-in-three (32%) know someone who has lost their job in the last year. 

The findings, generated by Surrey County Council’s ongoing in-house resident panel research, highlights the growing day-to-day concerns facing the 1.2 million residents in the region.

Responses show more than half report their own personal financial circumstances had worsened in the last year. And, of those currently employed, more than one in five expressed worries about losing their job within the next 12 months. 

It comes as the recent government figures show more than 26,900 people in Surrey are out of work but actively seeking employment. 

The council – working with government, employers and training providers – is responding directly to these challenges. This includes stepping up its county-wide offer for those who are out of work or looking to gain new skills to boost their career. 

Employment support available for Surrey residents

The launch of STEP Surrey, a new single gateway for skills and employment, is now live. This brings together help for jobseekers to learn new skills, find work and access employment support in one place. 

Skills Bootcamps, providing free fast-track training in growing sectors such as construction, cyber security, gaming and green industries, are also available. 

For those with barriers to work, there is dedicated employment support available.  

This includes Connect to Work, a pioneering government-funded programme which aims to support 2,000 residents with disabilities and other complex challenges into suitable sustainable employment over the next five years. 

And WorkWell provides free one-to-one coaching service for Surrey residents with health issues to start, stay or return to work. 

For business owners, budding entrepreneurs and freelancers, the Business Surrey website offers business support and start-up advice.  

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “While Surrey’s economy is performing well overall, our residents are not exempt from issues facing the whole of the UK. These findings show that many of our residents are being directly impacted by challenges such as the cost-of living, unemployment or health issues. While I appreciate this can bring stress and anxiety, the positive news is there is help available.  

“We are using enhanced responsibilities from Whitehall to work with government, employers and training providers to ensure there is expert support available alongside local job opportunities from businesses who are desperate to recruit local talent. 

“I encourage those impacted to get in touch via STEP Surrey so that we can provide them with the bespoke support they need to find work that works for them and their loved ones.” 

What is the State of Surrey economy winter 2025 research?

The State of Surrey economy winter 2025 research is carried out by Surrey County Council’s residents intelligence unit.

More than 550 people took part in October’s resident panel survey. This asks a range of questions on the economy.  

Responders identified inflation, housing and infrastructure as the biggest economic challenges currently facing the county. And nearly 70% felt the economic situation in Surrey had worsened over the past year. 

For more information on the council’s resident panel, contact research@surreycc.gov.uk.