Skip page header and navigation

REC says UK’s back-to-work plan should rely on industry expertise

REC says UK’s back-to-work plan should rely on industry expertise

July 11, 2024

Main article

The UK’s Recruitment and Employment Confederation urged the UK government to leverage the country’s recruitment industry in its back-to-work plan announced 11 July.

“The new government’s early start to work on lessening economic inactivity is vital because our tight labour market hampers productivity, constrains economic growth and holds back social mobility,” Kate Shoesmith, REC deputy chief executive, said in a press release. “The rewards are tantalising for the government if it can harness the personal choices individuals make in needing and wanting flexible work opportunities.”

Shoesmith noted a partnership approach with business is the right way to go. The REC’s own Restart scheme found work for more than 2,000 people; it also had one of its best placement rates in June in an otherwise flat labour market.

“We urge the government to use the expertise of the recruitment industry in local areas to support any reforms,” she said. “A refreshed careers and jobs advisory service needs to be grounded in the day-to-day realities of a local jobs market; from our work we know that many recruiters, employers and educators would be willing to offer their expertise, skills and drive to make a difference to worklessness in their respective regions.”