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AWR latest – Monitoring the real impact will be crucial, says Marshall Evans, REC's EPC Chair

The latest meeting of the REC’s Employment Policy Committee (EPC) included an update on how agencies and employers are approaching the forthcoming Agency Work Regulations (AWR). The feedback confirmed that awareness amongst client organisations remains patchy but that recruiters are on the whole fully geared up to help employers get to grips with the necessary changes.

Discussions at the meeting also focused on some of the practical support and information that would be useful to recruiters following implementation. It was agreed that regular updates and data on how the new regulations are impacting the market would be crucial and would help to inform ongoing dialogue with clients and Government.

This was the last EPC meeting before AWR comes into force. Recognising the role that members have played in informing this debate and driving the industry’s campaign, Marshall Evans, Chair of the REC’s Employment Policy Committee and Group Operations Director of Staffline Group Plc says:

 “The Committee has played a pivotal role over nearly ten years in driving the industry’s lobbying work in Brussels and Westminster. Implementing the regulations will not be easy but there have been some important wins and a huge effort have been made to ensure that the end result is as workable as possible.

“The industry as a whole is ready and will be working with clients to limit the impact and to ensure that flexible staffing arrangements continue to provide a crucial outlet for employers and job-seekers.

 “Looking ahead, the Committee will now play a key role in monitoring how the AWR plays out on the ground and will steer the REC’s ongoing dialogue with Government, employer bodies and trade unions."

The Employment Policy Committee helps to drive REC lobbying campaigns and is comprised a cross-section of members with an interest in public policy developments.