£7.4 Million returned to underpaid workers
The Government has today [29 May 2025] named 518 employers that failed to pay their workers the legal minimum wage, collectively leaving nearly 60,000 people short-changed by more than £7.4 million. These businesses have since repaid what they owe and been hit with financial penalties of up to 200% of the underpayments. This naming-and-shaming round, […]
My Lords you are confused – Employment Rights Bill Committee Stage
On Thursday 5th of June, it was the 7th Committee Stage Sitting of the Employment Rights Bill in the House of Lords. The Bill’s progress through the Upper House is sluggish with debates lasting late into the evenings. Thorough scrutiny is welcome and much needed, but I am concerned that the debate is beginning to […]
Spending Review 2025: What It Means for Compliance and the Contingent Workforce
The Chancellor’s 2025 Spending Review sends a clear signal: enforcement, regulation, and economic efficiency will be central pillars of the government’s agenda going forward. With billions allocated to strengthening HMRC and the establishment of the new Fair Work Agency (FWA), FCSA members and other payroll intermediaries should be prepared for a more regulated and scrutinised […]
Contractor loses claim for fees because of ‘entire agreement’ clause in contract
In the recent case of Mr Alastair Dobbie v Paula Felton T/A Feltons Solicitors, the Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled that a consultant, whose contract contained “entire agreement” and “no oral variations” clauses, could not argue that there had been a separate verbal agreement to change its terms. The case acts as an important reminder to […]
How to Select the Right Outsourcing Partner for Umbrella Companies?
The rise of umbrella companies has prompted increasing demand for efficient financial administration, compliance, and reduced administrative overhead. With the global finance and accounting outsourcing market on track to reach $60.31 billion by 2030, outsourcing has become a strategic move for sustainable growth and agility. Why should you consider Outsourcing? Umbrella companies deal with intricate […]
Beware the Payroll Pirates: Mini Umbrellas Are on the Rise
Payroll pirates have a new bounty on their horizon. With Employer National Insurance Contributions (ErNICs) increasing in April, some businesses are looking for ways to cut costs—unfortunately, this means mini umbrella companies (MUCs) are creeping back into the supply chain as FCSA warned after the Budget last October. We’ve already had reports from our members […]
Combatting Payroll Pirates: The Role of Compliant Payroll Providers
Recent reports have highlighted the alarming involvement of several UK recruitment firms in tax avoidance schemes, putting workers at significant financial risk. These deceptive practices, often led by fraudulent operators, have not only endangered the financial stability of workers but have also undermined the integrity of the UK’s tax system. We strongly condemn these dishonest […]
The Employment Rights Bill: Recent Updates
The Employment Rights Bill, introduced in the House of Commons on 10 October 2024, promises to reshape the industry with significant amendments and announcements. Key provisions: Unfair Dismissal: The Bill removes the qualifying period for unfair dismissal, currently set at two years. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): Strengthening SSP by removing the requirement that an employee […]
What the Honest Payroll Collapse Teaches About Umbrella Due Diligence
Benefits for Contingent Workers: The Importance of Future-Proofing
As the contingent workforce continues to grow and develop, changing the employment landscape in the process, it’s more important than ever for umbrella companies to focus on future-proofing their benefits and engagement programmes. The rise of the gig economy and the increasing demand for flexible working arrangements mean that companies need to adapt and be […]