Agency work

Agency work can be a great way to get back into work, plug a gap, or fit around other commitments. Find out more about the pros and cons of working through an agency.

What is agency work?

Also known as temping, agency work is when you're employed on a temporary basis, from just one day to several months. You'll be paid weekly, based on the number of hours you work. Your contract is with the employment agency rather than with the company you're temping for. The firm that hires you pays a fee to the agency and the agency pays your wages.

What kind of agency work can I do?

Agency workers have traditionally been employed in administrative, construction or factory work, but now you can temp in a massive variety of fields, from nannying to IT.

How do I get agency work?

You can sign up with local employment agencies that specialise in the kind of work you're interested in. Find these listed under 'Employment Agencies' on yell.com. There are also a huge number of online agencies which you can search for through Google: type in 'employment agencies' and the kind of work you're looking for, such as 'catering'.

Do I have the same rights as permanent staff?

Not quite. Remember that your employment agency is your employer, so check the details of holiday, sick, and maternity-pay with them first. Statutory holiday is now 5.6 weeks per year, but you will have to accrue this over time. Some agencies may add this onto your payslip; others may give you paid holiday according to the number of days you've worked. There are conditional entitlements to sick pay; you should get the minimum statutory entitlement of around £75 a week after the first four days off sick.

Who can get agency work in the UK?

Anyone who has the right to work in the UK – British nationals and those from the European Economic Area (EEA).

Why should I consider agency work?

• It's flexible and you don't need to offer long-term commitment
• The agency has many contacts and does the job-searching for you – it can be a quick way to get short-term work in a hurry
• If you're at a crossroads it can help you decide what's right for you, or give you some breathing space while you make a decision
• It's varied: you can meet new people and avoid getting bogged down in office politics
• It's good experience: you can develop new skills and enhance your CV
• If you're looking for a permanent job, temping can tide you over until you find one
• It's a foot in the door: if you make a good impression you might be offered a permanent post

Are there any downsides to agency work?

· There is less long-term stability than on a permanent contract

· In a recession employers can see agency staff as easy targets for cutting costs

· You may not be entitled to the same maternity or sick leave as permanent employees

· Holiday pay has to be accrued and this is difficult if your hours go up and down

· You are not protected by industrial unions, although Employment Agency Standards can offer advice and support

· As a 'temp', you might not feel quite part of the team

· You may not receive the same benefits as permanent staff

· You can get lazy, and there may be fewer opportunities for promotion

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