A Fresh Look for our Business Partner Programme
We’re doing something a little different with the blog today. Normally, this is where we talk about the big compliance challenges our sector faces, or the policy changes that keep us all on our toes. But this time, I wanted to take a step back and give you a peek behind the curtain at something…
FCSA opens investigation
FCSA is currently investigating allegations of action being taken by HMRC against one of our members. In line with our governance procedures and commitment to integrity, the member concerned has been advised. We will not be commenting further until the matter has been fully resolved.
Introducing Kintec: Same Experts. Smarter Brand. Bigger Vision.
Big news—JA is now Kintec. No, we haven’t been bought out. No, we’re not merging. And no, there are definitely no consultants behind this. What’s changed? Just the name and the brand. What hasn’t? Everything that matters. We’re still the same team you know and trust. Still obsessed with umbrella payroll. Still building tools that actually work….
FCSA Forum 2025: A United Sector Looks Ahead
This year’s FCSA Forum was more than just our biggest gathering yet, it was a clear signal of a sector coming together with renewed purpose. With over 200 delegates joining us at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester, the 2025 Forum brought energy, insight and meaningful collaboration to a room filled with accredited members, recruitment professionals,…
Contractor loses claim for fees because of “entire agreement” clause in contract
In the recent case of Mr Alastair Dobbie v Paula Felton T/A Feltons Solicitors, the Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled that a consultant, whose contract contained “entire agreement” and “no oral variations” clauses, could not argue that there had been a separate verbal agreement to change its terms. The case acts as an important reminder to…
AI in recruitment and potential for bias
There are many benefits to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in recruitment processes, to automate filtering processes and promote efficiency, scalability and consistency. AI in recruitment is on the rise, with a November 2023 survey by the Institute of Student Employers finding that nearly a third of employers are now using AI as part of…
Spending Review 2025: What It Means for Compliance and the Contingent Workforce
The Chancellor’s 2025 Spending Review sends a clear signal: enforcement, regulation, and economic efficiency will be central pillars of the government’s agenda going forward. With billions allocated to strengthening HMRC and the establishment of the new Fair Work Agency (FWA), FCSA members and other payroll intermediaries should be prepared for a more regulated and scrutinised…
Umbrella Regulation Update: FCSA Meets with HMRC and HMT
Today FCSA met with HMRC and HMT to discuss the proposed Umbrella Regulation. The policy team’s proposal, which we must stress is still subject to the Exchequer Treasury accepting it, is leaning towards a joint and several liability approach. This means: The employer’s reference number will remain with the Umbrella company, but the top/primary agency…
£7.4 Million returned to underpaid workers
The Government has today [29 May 2025] named 518 employers that failed to pay their workers the legal minimum wage, collectively leaving nearly 60,000 people short-changed by more than £7.4 million. These businesses have since repaid what they owe and been hit with financial penalties of up to 200% of the underpayments. This naming-and-shaming round,…
Section 41 Equality Act 2010 – Strike Out of Indirect Race Discrimination Claim Brought By Contract Worker Upheld by EAT
In Djalo v Secretary of State for Justice [2025] EAT 67, the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) upheld the Employment Tribunal’s decision to strike out a race discrimination claim brought by a contract cleaner. The case highlights the legal limitations faced by outsourced workers seeking equal pay with directly employed staff, particularly in light of the Court…