REC Audited Award - FAQ's
REC has developed and deliver a robust audit package that is focused on compliance with EAA 1973 and Conduct Regulations 2003, as well as REC Code of Professional Practice.
What are the Benefits of Being REC Audited?
If your agency passes you will have the kudos of being one of the first to achieve audited status in your region or sector. REC will be marketing REC Audited to clients as the ‘gold standard’ of REC membership. If your agency is unsuccessful you will have had the benefit of consultancy advice and continued support from REC to assist you in reaching compliance and achieving audited status You will also be able to demonstrate that an independent firm of auditors have checked your agency out and that you are fully regulatory compliant.
How long will the audit take?
Once day will be sufficient for each branch.
What will happen during the audit?
During the visit the auditor will work against a list of pre-set criteria that is broken down as follows;-
- Policy and Certification requirements
- Work Seeker Registration
- Work Seeking Services
- Work Seekers from outside the UK
- Terms of Engagement for Temporary Workers
- Payments to and From the Worker
- Initial contact with Clients
- Client Terms of Business
- Record Keeping and Data Storage
- Advertising
The auditor will discuss issues as and when they arise with the staff concerned. Either during the audit or at the end, whichever is preferable, the auditor will advise you of any issues along with recommendations for corrective action or improvement to existing systems. They will also give you an indication of the likely audit opinion.
What happens after the audit?
The assessor will then review their findings and forward the results and reccomendation to the internal assessment team.
Successful. Agencies who have met all of the criteria will receive a certificate and logo, on receipt of a signed pledge. Any guidance or recommendations offered will mostly describe enhancements to existing procedures or address issues of a more routine nature.
Unsuccessful. Agencies who have not passed, will receive a report supported by recommendations, guidance notes and an action plan – as well as continued support in reaching compliance. Depending on the severity of non-compliance it is possible that a further assessment may be required. Once the agency can demonstrate that recommendations have been implemented within an agreed timescale a Certificate and Logo can then be issued
What do members who piloted the scheme think?
'This will give the industry credibility, be an excellent sales tool and encourage client confidence' Jez Donally, Managing Director,Working 4 U
'Buying into the audit scheme will be highly beneficial for any agency wanting to run a successful business that is fully compliant with the REC code and the governing legislation" Ken Wilson Associates of Newcastle.
‘The audit process helped us to pick up on the finer points that we had missed Having a process is important and having that process audited is extremely important, especially for clients.’ Anna Shaw - Finedon Recruitment
Who do I contact in the event of a query?
Please email sadie.jones@rec.uk.com and we will respond within 2-5 working days.
