APSCo UK January Legal Updates

W/C 5th January

1. How to spot a recruitment scam

As we start 2026, we want to draw your attention to recruitment scams which unfortunately continue to be prevalent.

We have recently received reports of scams involving requests by clients for the link(s) to the job advert published by the recruitment company so that the client can share the link with their contractors to apply for the role. Once the contractors have been selected by the clients and once payments are due, the client will raise an issue for refusing payment or, sometimes disappear, leaving the recruitment company with the obligation to pay the contractor.

Members are recommended to be vigilant and to read APSCo guidance on How to spot a recruitment scam 

2. Consultation - options for reform of non-compete clauses in employment contracts

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has issued a consultation following their Working paper on options for reform of non-compete clauses in employment contracts.

The DBT is seeking views on potential reforms to non-compete clauses in employment contracts, with the aim of supporting economic growth and a more dynamic labour market. It outlines several policy options, including:

• setting a statutory maximum duration for non-compete clauses,
• banning them entirely,
• restricting their use below a certain salary threshold, or
• combining a salary threshold with a time limit.

APSCo will be holding a roundtable to obtain member feedback to help inform APSCo’s response to the consultation. The consultation is open until 18 February 2026 and you can respond directly on behalf of your organisation via this link.