Uncertainty surrounding the upcoming EU referendum is creating unprecedented demand for contractors within PR and comms across the UK, according to London-based corporate and marketing communications recruitment firm VMA Group.

VMA Group has noted an increase in vacancies for short term roles during the first quarter of 2016 as organisations postpone bringing on board permanent staff until after Britain’s position in Europe has been decided.

“VMA is finding that many companies are choosing interim answers rather than permanent solutions. At the moment work is not stopping but it is changing in both scope and focus. Many firms want support to help them get past the June date and beyond, but are reluctant to take an enduring commitment while the market is unstable,” Andrew Harvey, executive director of internal communications, said.

“A founding principle of the EU is free movement of labour and VMA supports its clients by offering the finest candidates across Europe,” Lucinda Moores, VMA director of external communications, said. “While there is uncertainty in the market, many comms professionals are reluctant to make the move to a new role.”

The EU Referendum is scheduled to take place on 23 June 2016.