REC comments on new government’s back to work plan

Commenting on the new government’s announcements on lessening worklessness, Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy Chief Executive, said:

“The new government’s early start to work on lessening economic inactivity is vital because our tight labour market hampers productivity, constrains economic growth and holds back social mobility. The rewards are tantalising for the government if it can harness the personal choices individuals make in needing and wanting flexible work opportunities.

“A partnership approach with business is undeniably the right one, as evidenced by our own Restart scheme. REC’s partnership with Maximus employability services and local JCPs has found work for more than 2,000 people, and we had one of our best placement rates in June this year - in what has been an otherwise flat labour market. We urge the government to use the expertise of the recruitment industry in local areas to support any reforms. A refreshed careers and jobs advisory service needs to be grounded in the day-to-day realities of a local jobs market; from our work we know that many recruiters, employers and educators would be willing to offer their expertise, skills and drive to make a difference to worklessness in their respective regions.”

Notes to editors

Employers suggest priorities to overcome ‘cost of working crisis’ – REC
Employers suggest that any changes to public sector employment services should prioritise reform of financial support for new recruits, according to a survey by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) in collaboration with the Institute for Employment Studies (IES).

Here to stay! Agency workers’ role in labour markets to grow, suggests survey - REC
Demand for agency workers is set to grow as staff seek greater flexibility and employers back the fresh thinking and specialised skills that temps offer. As we head into an election, policymakers need to work with this trend to grow their economies, says the REC.

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The REC is the voice of the recruitment industry, speaking up for great recruiters. We drive standards and empower recruitment businesses to build better futures for great candidates and themselves. We are champions of an industry which is fundamental to the strength of the UK economy.

Find out more about the Recruitment & Employment Confederation at www.rec.uk.com.