The contingent workforce in the UK, made up of non-permanent labour often called contractors, temps, consultants and freelancers, is steadily growing year on year. The Office of National Statistics reports that 24% of the UK labour force is made up of contingent workers, with the number predicted to rise to 30% by 2020.
However, the government are cracking down on companies who use contingent workers as demonstrated by the recent press surrounding court cases and pending investigations into the likes of Pimlico Plumbers, Uber, Hermes and Deliveroo. They have also introduced much stronger legislation around IR35 and the Criminal Finances Act to deter employers from using contingent workers when they could be permanently employed. As such, now more than ever, it is really key that businesses have full oversight of their contingent workforce and robust processes and mechanisms in place to manage them compliantly.
When utilised effectively alongside your permanent workforce, contingent workers can add significant value to your business, however, using them comes with a number of risks so it is critical that there is a consistent methodology in place to manage them and ensure robust, continued oversight.
Read the full white paper on Managing a Contingent Workforce: The Risks, Benefits and Best Practice here.
The Curve Group offers a range of flexible, bespoke contingent workforce solutions which can be 100% tailored to meet your business needs and can conduct initial audits to identify risks and opportunities relating to your use of contingent workers. Get in touch today to find out how we can support your business to become more efficient, save money and remain 100% compliant.
