Latest employment data shows the number of employees on payroll in South West Wales was 148,046, down -0.6% on the same month last year.

The latest employment data is for December 2025. There are signs of returning confidence among employers, with organisations reporting an increase of 134 on payroll over the past month.

Overall, employment in South West Wales remains lower than a year ago, with employers reporting payroll headcount down 891 (-0.6%) year-on-year.

The figures are based on analysis of the latest Office for National Statistics payroll data by the employment and pay app WageSight.

Compared with other areas, South West Wales ranks 6th out of 12, placing it mid-range for employment change.

The trend in South West Wales reflects a mixed employment picture across Wales, with some areas reporting improvements while others continue to see pressure on payroll numbers.

Nationally, employment levels have shown a mixed picture over the past year, creating a challenging backdrop.

Paul Hebden, WageSight Director, said: “Although employment in South West Wales 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.”

It remains too early to say whether recent changes mark the start of a sustained shift, or a temporary fluctuation.