The NHS Employers organisation is supporting employers to prepare for the Agency Workers Regulations, which come into force on 1 October this year. These regulations give agency workers equal terms and conditions to permanent staff after being employed for 12 weeks.
Dean Royles, director of the NHS Employers organisation, said: "The NHS Employers organisation understands the aim of the Regulations, however they also present additional challenges for employers at a time when the total cost of the workforce is reducing.
"Efficient use of agency staff is one way that organisations in the NHS can seek to improve quality and productivity. There is good evidence that employers are adapting to the current challenges, and many are recognising that a planned and flexible mix of substantive and temporary staff is a good way forward.
"The NHS Employers organisation has new guidance and support for employers and will work with both employers and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to support the effective implementation of the Regulations."
The NHS Employers organisation's online guide is now available at www.nhsemployers.org/flexibleworkforce.
