A new guide has been published by the Industry Research Unit at the REC (Recruitment and Employment Federation) to assist public sector employers in the face of spending cuts with the task of recruitment. The guide, ‘Hire Power’ was launched earlier this month at the REC’s Public Sector Summit which aims to help the relevant parties to manage recruitment and continue to provide the indispensable front line services, despite the cuts that will be made to spending in the public sector.

Hire Power is expected to play an important role in helping recruiters to make long term provision for services without resorting to drastic cuts in staff. The REC’s Director of Research Roger Tweedy has emphasised how important this new guide is. He said:

“With uncertainty over how deeply the cuts will impact on recruiters working in the public sector, we have to raise awareness among employer organisations of the choices they have in the way they recruit temporary staff in the future.”

The REC is hoping that Hire Power will provide practical guidance in maintaining an efficient and valuable public service in a climate where financial changes are necessary. Recruitment agencies have a major role in the reform of the public sector offering flexibility, value and a diverse range of specialist skills being provided by freelancers and contractors.

Contractors are able to provide a flexible role enabling the leading roles to effectively even out the impact of peaks and troughs. This assistance arrives at a time when guidance is required for those leaving the public sector and moving into new careers.

Freelancers and contractors should take advice from a reputable umbrella company so that they are sure about their employment status, as IR35 legislation continues to cause confusion. Guidance from an umbrella company will maximise your income whilst staying within HMRC guidelines.