APSCo unveils 2019 manifesto

The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) has launched its 2019 Manifesto, which outlines the trade body’s key policy recommendations aimed at promoting the value of flexible professional talent amid the fourth industrial revolution.

The document, which has been shared with senior politicians, outlines five main areas of focus:

• Rethink changes to off-payroll rules in the private sector, which should, at least, be delayed pending a further impact review and completion of an assessment on employment status

• Assign flexible employment and engagement policy to a junior minister as part of their portfolio in order to accurately assess the impact of proposed legislation and better understand the roles and requirements of self-employed professionals

• Undertake a comprehensive review of employment status for tax and rights and consider introducing a new status for Independent Professionals

• Introduce a dedicated visa route as part of the future skills-based immigration system, through which highly skilled contractors from overseas can come to the UK and support British businesses

• Reform apprenticeship levy funding so that monies can be shared to assist the professional development of agency workers and Independent Professionals – particularly in talent-short STEM
sectors such as digital, engineering and construction

On the launch, Ann Swain, Chief Executive of APSCo, commented:

“As the UK heads to the polls to select what may be our third Prime Minister this year, APSCo is taking the opportunity to share policies we want to influence in 2020 and beyond.”

“As the only UK and international trade body dedicated to representing the professional recruitment sector – boasting a membership of approximately 1000 members in the UK alone – we are in a unique position to advise on how the skilled workforce contributes to economic growth and UK competitiveness.”

“While Brexit continues to dominate both headlines and the campaign strategies of the main political parties, the reality is that conversations surrounding the UK’s future relationship with the EU, its workforce and the economy are intrinsically linked. We are proud to provide the professional recruitment community with a voice that is heard at the highest levels and we look forward to working with the next government to help shape future policy.”

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Carly Smith
BlueSky PR
T: +44 (0)1582 790 708
E: Carly@bluesky-pr.com
W: https://www.bluesky-pr.com/

About APSCo
APSCo was for
med to give all firms involved in the recruitment of professional talent who have a commitment to excellence, the specialist support and distinctive voice they need to be successful.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, APSCo is the only UK recruitment trade body with an international footprint with in-country operations in Germany, Singapore and Australia. It gives candidates and employers a trusted badge of quality while providing member firms with an innovative range of services designed by recruitment experts to boost performance and reduce exposure to business and financial risk.

These services, combined with its growing international profile, commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and opportunities for professional networking give APSCo members a unique opportunity to develop their businesses and gain competitive advantage.
www.apsco.org