What does the future of work look like? 

As the UK workforce navigates a new era shaped by artificial intelligence, shifting employee expectations, and evolving employment law, the role of people professionals has never been more critical.  According to the 2024 Employer Skills Survey, there were approximately 250,500 skill‑shortage vacancies, equating to around 27% of all vacancies, bringing the level back to roughly what it was in 2017. Government analysis also shows that employment demand in priority occupations is projected to rise by around 15% from 2025 to 2030, emphasising the scale of change ahead.  

At the same time, the employment rate for people aged 16‑64 stood at 75.0% in Nov 2024‑Jan 2025, while the economic inactivity rate was at 21.5%. With new government priorities under the Employment Rights Bill and the Civil Service People Plan 2024–2027, organisations must balance innovation with inclusion, resilience, and fairness.  

The Institute of Government & Public Policy has built a strong reputation for delivering insightful and impactful healthcare conferences. The Future of HR 2026 has been designed for senior HR and people management professionals, seeking to enhance their professional skills, stay ahead of workplace trends, and drive positive cultural and strategic transformation within their organisations. 

Join the Institute of Government & Public Policy for The Future of HR 2026, which will explore the latest research, policy developments, and strategies defining the modern workplace. Contact one of our advisors now to secure your place and avoid disappointment!