Cost of Office Temp Services
across the UK

# Office Temp Services Trade Body Accreditation

The recruitment and employment services sector in the UK is regulated through several key trade bodies and schemes. The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) is the largest and most recognised body, setting professional standards for recruitment agencies and temporary staffing providers. REC-accredited firms must comply with a code of practice covering ethical recruitment, fair treatment of workers, and data protection. The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCO) provides similar accreditation, particularly for white-collar and professional temp services. The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) is a statutory regulator that specifically oversees labour providers in high-risk sectors, though this is less common for standard office temp services. Additionally, many providers voluntarily work towards ISO 9001 quality certification, which demonstrates commitment to consistent service delivery. Understanding these schemes helps you identify which providers adhere to national standards rather than operating without formal oversight.

Verifying a provider's credentials is straightforward and important. You can check REC membership directly on the REC website, which maintains a searchable directory of accredited agencies; genuine members display the REC logo on their website and marketing materials. Similarly, APSCO maintains a public register of members. Request documentation from any provider claiming accreditation—legitimate firms will readily provide proof of membership and their accreditation number. This verification matters because accredited providers have undergone vetting, must follow a code of conduct, and are subject to complaints procedures and audits. An accredited agency also carries professional indemnity insurance and provides better protection for your business if something goes wrong, such as an employee failing a background check or underperforming. Unaccredited providers may operate perfectly well but offer you no formal recourse or assurance of compliance with industry standards.

Accredited office temp service providers typically charge higher rates than