AWR Latest - REC Healthcare and NHS Employers focus on making new regulations work

AWR Latest - REC Healthcare and NHS Employers focus on making new regulations work   

Last week's inaugural meeting of REC Healthcare included a specific AWR focus and welcomed the participation of NHS Employers, the representative body for NHS Trusts. 

Key conclusions included the need for effective co-operation between agencies and Trusts and for the open transfer of information.  Other issues that were raised included identifying the correct comparator within Trusts, determining whether this would be calculated using agenda for change pay scales, buying solutions job specifications or through other comparable positions.  Members also discussed the best way to identify the hirer - particularly where there is a joint commissioning split or a service merger between trusts.  

Commenting on the outcome of the discussion, Ed McRandal, REC Healthcare Policy Advisor said;

“One collateral benefit of complex regulations like the AWR is that it reinforces the need for employers to work closely with agencies to ensure that the implementation process is successfully managed.  This is particularly true for large organisations like the NHS. The challenge for the sector is to pre-empt practical implications such as how the AWR will need to be reflected within NHS framework agreements".

"Healthcare recruiters are up for meeting this challenge. NHS Employers were encouraged by the levels of detailed AWR knowledge within the industry and recognised the important role that flexible staffing plays within the NHS. External threats such as new regulations are an opportunity for recruiters to step up and demonstrate their professionalism and awareness. The REC will continue to build links with organisations like NHS Employers to ensure that we get this positive message over to client organisations".

As part of its collaborative work with NHS Employers, REC Healthcare has helped to develop specific guidance and FAQs for NHS Trusts.