Freelance contractors working in the engineering, construction and strategy and consultancy sectors may have experienced a more positive jobs market in March.

Employer demand increased 25 per cent in April, year-on-year, according to figures from Reed.

However, overall the recruiter's Reed Job Index - assessed across a range of measures - declined by three points (two per cent) in March compared to the previous month.

Commenting on the findings, Reed managing director Martin Warnes explained: "Job creation is well ahead of last year.

"Encouragingly this growth has been spread across a wide range of private sector areas, from engineering and manufacturing right through to service sector staff from strategic consultants to catering."

Earlier this month, employers were warned by think-tank the Fatherhood Institute that they need to be flexible to keep hold of the best staff during the economic downturn.