Temporary staff could be hit by law change

Recent changes to employment law will see temporary workers inherit increased rights after 12 weeks’ service.

The changes provide temporary employees who complete 12 weeks’ work with an agency with the same rights over basic employment and working conditions as full-time staff.

However, industry experts suggest that some employers may try to avoid this situation by dismissing temps as they approach their 11th week.

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Emma Carruthers from Human Capital Services, an employment advice firm, said: “The timing of this change in legislation is extremely unfortunate.

“We estimate that around 250,000 temporary staff will be let go on or around their 11th week of service. “Employment legislation has become a minefield.”