October 2011 will see a new start for agency workers in the UK as the Government amends current Agency Worker Regulations (AWR).

As of 1 October, legislation effecting the rights of agency workers will be implemented ensuring they have equal rights to those of full time employees as formally set out in pay structures, collective agreements and in organisations company handbook.

Key Personnel, one of the West Midlands leading recruitment agencies is tackling the amends to legislation head on, ensuring employers are aware of the alterations and that all staff are treated equally.

Based in Birmingham's Colmore Business district, Key Personnel has developed a free and extensive toolkit which will inform employers of the rights and entitlements of agency workers which include factors such as access to onsite facilities, pay and holiday. 

The toolkit breaks down legal 'jargon' ensuring it is more accessible to both employers and employees. In addition to explaining the principles behind the legislation and how it will affect businesses, the kit also comes with a number of forms which will assist HR departments when employing temporary staff for less than 12 weeks and more than 12 weeks. The forms will act as an audit trail ensuring employees will remain compliant well after the initial training is over. 

Mary Hendry, Managing Director of Key Personnel said: "In many cases, the rule of 'equal treatment' will be a matter of common sense such as the use of canteen or childcare facilities, toilets and prayer rooms. However there may be some instances where it is more difficult to distinguish workers' rights. 

"The toolkit has been developed to assist both employers and employees in overcoming difficult situations in regards to worker rights. Utilising real life examples, we have aimed to tackle key issues which may arise in the work place, giving those involved detailed and precise answers on how to react.

"When any piece of legislation is passed it is vital that those it affects are informed and understand the changes. We have removed all of the jargon and technical terms which may act as barriers to this in order to provide a clear and precise handbook that employers and employees will find vital as time progresses."

Key Personnel is an independent recruitment consultancy located at the heart of Birmingham's business district. With 30 years experience in the recruitment industry, Key Personnel's expertise lies in finding excellent candidates with the right attitude for office personnel and administration roles.