The Agency Worker Regulations were back on everybody’s mind at the end of last week.
Following publication of the draft guidelines last Thursday, a two week consultation period is under way during which time the REC will be collecting feedback from its members and submitting a response to the BIS.
The REC has played an active part in all the consultation workshops run by the BIS and this has enabled them to flag areas of specific concern to recruiters. The REC’s legal team will analyse the draft guidance and further information will be provided to members over the next few days.
Last week, the REC met with the TUC to discuss implementation of the Agency Workers Directive as well. As well as highlighting common ground, the meeting underlined the importance of positive dialogue between the Trade Unions and the recruitment sector.
There are differing perspectives on how some of the equality measures should work but the two sides agree on other areas such as making sure employers only work with agencies that are compliant. It was also agreed that the government needs to enforce existing employment regulations effectively.
Sarah Veale, the head of equality and employment rights at the TUC, said it is in the interests of all concerned parties to work together and make the best of the AWR. Honest agencies can gain a lot by demonstrating to clients their understanding of the regulations and helping them get it right.
The director of policy and professional services at the REC, Tom Hadley, said that although there will always be differing views of some issues, progress had been made. The REC will continue to build on its relationship with the TUC and explore common ground. It will also be crucial to maintain regular dialogue with both the unions and employers as implementation draws closer.
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