The Monster Employment Index UK increased by six points in February as online recruitment showed some bounce following three consecutive months of decline. Year-on-year, the Index was down 75 points, or 39 percent - the steepest annual downturn on record.

This rebound was driven by markedly higher demand for workers in the education, training and library; and management and consulting sectors. The healthcare and social work sector exhibited a considerable retraction in demand after January's steep rise.

The UK Index rose by six points in February as online recruitment activity showed a degree of expansion following three months of contraction

- Year-on-year, the Index fell by 39%, or 75 points. This is the steepest annual decline on record and the fourth straight month that the Index has fallen on a yearly basis

- In February, growth was driven by significant increases in job opportunities in the education, training and library; and management and consulting sectors

- Online recruitment activity eased the most for healthcare workers, although the sector showed the largest annual gain

- Among occupational groups, craft and related workers noted the strongest increase, while Plant and machine operators and assemblers saw the sharpest decline

- The majority of UK regions rebounded from January lows. The South West grew most and only Wales saw a downturn in hiring