The Salary & Benefits Report 2025 in partnership with Hewett Recruitment is now available to download.
In October 2024, businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire were asked to share, in confidentiality, the salaries and benefits they offer to employees. It is well documented that people are the most valuable resource to any business. However, in the challenging times businesses are facing, recruiting and retaining staff remains a significant challenge in the current labour market.
The Salary & Benefits Report allows us to establish best practices across the two counties, benchmarking pay and benefits in multiple roles. This creates a vital resource for local businesses, supporting your recruitment and retention goals for the near future.
83% of those surveyed in this report attempted to recruit staff over the past 12 months; however, 66% of these experienced difficulties during the recruitment process.
The survey also highlighted a shift in benefits being offered to businesses. Over the past 12-18 months there has been a significant reduction in hybrid working, with 73% of businesses introducing a return to the office. Flexible working, however, has continued to remain the same or increase over the last 12-18 months. This could be in response to businesses wanting staff to return to the office but still offering work-life balance benefits.
This year’s Salary & Benefits report includes a focus on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I). The survey revealed that 77% of businesses surveyed recognise ED&I as a key organisational objective, highlighting its growing importance within workplace strategies. Over 52% are actively addressing unconscious bias, which is a critical step in fostering inclusive cultures and recruitment practices.
The report highlights a broad range of benefits being offered by businesses, reflecting the diverse needs of today’s workforce. Popular offerings include private healthcare, life insurance, and healthcare cash plans, demonstrating a strong commitment to employee well-being. Additionally, perks like access to healthy lifestyle initiatives highlight a growing focus on holistic employee health. These benefits are not just about meeting needs but also fostering a culture of care and support.
Laura Hewett, Owner/Director of Hewett Recruitment, commented on the Salary & Benefits Report 2025 and said, “We are proud to once again partner with the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce to produce this year’s Salary & Benefits Report. Now in its latest edition, the report continues to grow in relevance, with almost 350 organisations contributing data. It remains an essential resource for businesses navigating today’s labour market challenges and making informed strategic workforce decisions.
The past year has seen a complex and evolving employment landscape. Hiring activity has steadied, but employers continue to face significant pressures. April’s increases in National Insurance and the National Living Wage have added to rising costs, forcing businesses to balance budgets while remaining competitive in attracting and retaining talent. These pressures are particularly challenging for SMEs, which must carefully navigate costs without compromising on their people strategies. Despite these challenges, the UK’s employment rate remains high.
After the Autumn Budget in October and the announcement of the increase in employer national insurance contribution, a risk of inflation increasing and the increase of the National Living Wage, many businesses may be concerned or worried about the next coming year; however, with this report, the Chamber and Hewett Recruitment hope to assist you in recruiting and retaining staff and supporting the growth of your business.
To find out more about how to overcome these obstacles, download your free copy of the report.
Salary & Benefits Report 2025 | Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
If you have any questions in relation to the report, please contact the Policy department at the Chamber at [email protected].