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.png "APSCo August Legal Updates")
APSCo WhatsApp Group Guidelines
APSCo hosts a range of sector-specific WhatsApp groups, giving members a space to exchange insights, and communicate with each other about operational and sector-related matters. If you would like to join one of these groups, please contact your account manager, who can share further details and arrange access.
The APSCo WhatsApp Group Guidelines encourage positive participation and require members to be professional, responsible and respectful when participating in the WhatsApp groups. You can access them through our website here.
CIPD publishes latest insights on Flexible and Hybrid Working
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has released a new report supported by case studies, examining how flexible and hybrid working practices are evolving in the UK over a year after the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 came into effect.
The findings reflect both employer and employee perspectives, exploring how these working models are shaping productivity, talent engagement, wellbeing, and other critical business outcomes. These insights are particularly relevant for recruitment companies advising clients on workforce planning and for shaping their own working practices to attract and retain talent.
You can access the report through our What’s New page.
DWP launches State Pension age review
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has opened a call for evidence as part of its third review of the State Pension age, which must take place every six years under the Pensions Act 2014.
An independent report will look at whether State Pension age should be linked to life expectancy, how it supports long-term sustainability, and international approaches to automatic adjustments. The review will also consider fairness, regional differences, and wider economic impacts.
The deadline to respond is 24 October 2025, further details of which can be found here.
Law Commission Discussion Paper on AI Legal Issues
The Law Commission has published a discussion paper outlining the key legal issues linked to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in England and Wales. While no changes to the law are proposed yet, the paper highlights areas like AI autonomy, data use, and human reliance on AI topics likely to shape future regulation.
Recruitment companies using AI in candidate screening or process automation should stay aware of these developments, as legal reforms may impact how AI can be used across hiring and employment. You can read through our APSCo guide on 10 steps towards AI compliance here.
DBT Releases 2025 LPC Remit for Minimum Wage Recommendations
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has published a policy paper setting out the Low Pay Commission’s (LPC) remit for 2025, laying the groundwork for future National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) changes effective from 1 April 2026.
For recruitment companies, this signals important upcoming shifts that may affect candidate pay expectations and client workforce costs. The LPC has been tasked with ensuring the NLW remains at least two-thirds of median earnings, while also factoring in inflation, cost of living, economic conditions, labour market impacts, and business competitiveness, all of which directly influence recruitment dynamics and hiring budgets.
Notably, the government is requesting LPC consultation on scrapping adult age bands, which could lead to significant changes in wage structures for 18 to 20-year-olds. The LPC is also reviewing rates for under 18s, apprentices, and the accommodation offset.
APSCo Update - Tackling non-compliance in the Umbrella company market
The Government has recently published its draft tax legislation that will form a new chapter of Part 2 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 (ITEPA).
Under the new legislation, recruitment companies and end clients that engage workers via an umbrella company or other employment intermediaries will be liable for any failures from the Umbrella company or EOR to correctly deduct PAYE and National Insurance contributions.
APSCo has drafted an update on the topic to assist you in understanding your new responsibilities. You can access it here.
A technical consultation on the draft legislation is open until 15 September 2025 and any questions or feedback can be sent to this email address: umbrellacompanyevidence@hmtreasury.gov.uk.
ACAS - Webinar "Let's talk about menopause at work"
The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) is holding a webinar to discuss the importance of supporting those experiencing the menopause at work.
This webinar, scheduled on 13 August 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, will include:
- An overview of the menopause and who it affects;
- The impact in the workplace;
- An employer's legal responsibilities;
- Case studies from real experiences; and
- How the organisation and managers can support staff.
You can register to this webinar here.
