Freelancer and Contractor Services Association (FCSA), the leading body for professional employment services, has submitted its detailed response to the government’s consultation on applying zero-hours contract measures to agency workers. This response reflects FCSA’s commitment to preserving the flexibility and viability of the temporary labour market while advocating for fair treatment of workers.
FCSA has suggested that, due to the nature of temporary engagements, agency and temporary workers should be excluded from additional zero-hours regulations, however if exclusion is not possible then we make the following recommendations to government.
Key Recommendations from FCSA
- Right to Opt Out: FCSA recommends that agency workers retain the right to opt out of guaranteed hours arrangements, ensuring that workers who prefer flexibility are not restricted by rigid policies.
- Shared Responsibility for Guaranteed Hours: If guaranteed hours measures are implemented, they should align across end-hirers, agencies, and umbrella companies to ensure consistency and fairness.
- Shift Cancellation Compensation: To avoid undue financial strain on one party, compensation for cancelled shifts should be shared proportionally across the labour supply chain.
- Clear Role Definition: FCSA calls for explicit definitions of roles and responsibilities within the supply chain to eliminate confusion and streamline compliance.
Balancing Flexibility and Fairness
FCSA’s response acknowledges the unique nature of the temporary labour market, which relies on adaptability and fluid arrangements. The proposed measures aim to maintain this balance while protecting workers from potential exploitation.
FCSA continues to work with the government to ensure that the outcomes of this consultation are practical, fair, and aligned with the needs of the sector.
