With new legislation soon taking effect making it illegal to discriminate against workers on the basis of age, many employers are now looking at freelancers, research has revealed.
A study by people4business.com found that the number of companies seeking interim external support has risen dramatically in the month before the legislation comes into force on 1 October.
The company reports that enquiries from firms seeking specific freelance skills for specific contracts have increased 74% this month compared to August.
“Whatever the rights or wrongs of the legislation, there is a definite upsurge in interest in using temporary contractor specialists,” said Duncan Taylor, managing director of people4business.
“Many companies appear to be concerned about the perceived risks associated with the new legislation.”
The legislation will prohibit employers from making staff decisions in the areas of recruitment, promotion and training based on an employee’s age.
Businesses are encouraged to conduct a thorough review of their employment policies before the bill becomes law, Taylor added.
