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Brits seek festive work early as Christmas temp job searches soar

Brits seek festive work early as Christmas temp job searches soar

Searches for Christmas temp jobs hit record levels in September. New research from The Accountancy Partnership shows a 23% year-on-year rise in festive job searches, suggesting that Britons are seeking seasonal work earlier than ever amid continuing financial strain.

New data from The Accountancy Partnership reveals a sharp rise in the number of Britons seeking festive employment, with Google searches for “Christmas temp jobs” up 23% this September compared to the same month in 2024.

The analysis shows that seasonal job-seeking is not only intensifying but also starting earlier. Historically, searches peak in October and November. However, this year’s data indicates that people are looking to secure temporary roles well ahead of the Christmas period.

In September 2023, searches stood at 8,100 — already a notable increase from 5,400 in 2022. Two years later, that figure has more than doubled again, reaching 18,100 searches in September 2025. The data highlights a 235% increase over three years, suggesting that demand for temporary festive work has become significantly more competitive.

Lee Murphy, Managing Director of The Accountancy Partnership, said that “This year, we’ve seen a noticeable shift in how early and how urgently people are looking for Christmas work. A 23% year-on-year rise in searches suggests many households are feeling the pressure well before the festive season begins.”

Murphy noted that the trend is particularly evident in sectors such as retail, logistics, and hospitality — all of which have faced redundancies and reduced hours over the past two years.

“2024 and 2025 have been challenging for workers in these sectors,” he added. “We’re also seeing self-employed people and freelancers exploring temp roles as a way to balance income during slower trading periods. Seasonal work once offered a top-up for festive gifts, but now for many it’s a vital buffer to help cover essential bills.”

The report suggests that businesses preparing for the Christmas rush should anticipate strong demand from jobseekers. Murphy advises employers to streamline hiring processes and focus on flexibility.

“Those able to offer flexible shifts, fast onboarding, and competitive rates will attract the best seasonal talent in what is becoming a highly active labour market,” he said.

With the search data showing a consistent upward trajectory, 2025’s Christmas season looks set to bring another surge in applications — and a reminder that for many workers, festive jobs are no longer a bonus, but a necessity.

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BQ

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