UK IT workers consider relocation

Australia and the US are preferred locations for disillusioned IT workers

Many UK tech workers are considering setting sail for sunnier climes and better paid work, according to a new survey from The IT Job Board.

The online recruitment company warned that the UK is risking a "brain drain" in which workers pushed out of a job because of the recession would leave the UK in favour of new opportunities.

Issues high on the worry list for these workers are offshoring, cited by 39 per cent of respondents, followed by contract rate reductions at 28 per cent, and 'concern over long-term career prospects' at 27 per cent.

Jobs most likely to be affected are developer and programmer roles, the survey revealed.

The IT Job Board found that 80 per cent of workers are so concerned about the economic downturn that they are considering relocation. Sixty-nine per cent fancied Australia, and 59 per cent the US. Just under 60 per cent are thinking about going away for five years or more.

"The UK IT sector cannot afford to lose key individuals with specific technical knowledge and skills, both during the recession and as we approach a possible upturn," said Jamie Bowler, head of marketing at The IT Job Board.

"The responsibility lies with employers to maintain competitive rates, and to offer attractive career opportunities to staff with core employees. Only then can we work towards avoiding a brain drain in the UK IT sector."