Meridian Business Support is one of the largest privately owned, multi-sector recruitment companies in the UK. In 2019, we will celebrate 30 successful years in the recruitment industry. Our extensive network of branches provides over 4,000 temporary staff on a weekly basis and places over 900 permanent candidates each year. Employing 230 staff, we fill in excess of 200,000 bookings every year, successfully supplying to over 1,500 companies.
Our branch network covers the major towns and cities in the UK and we have clear and demonstrable expertise in all delivery models, from Ad-Hoc supply to Managed Service solutions at both single and multiple sites. We pride ourselves on being a service-led organisation and offer tailormade specialist recruitment solutions. Our professional service ensures that we retain and grow our healthy client and candidate base, which results in high levels of repeat business. We are fully committed to placing the right candidate in the right job.
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"Just an email to say thank you for all the support and advice you have given me the past weeks. I hadn't previously used an agency in obtaining a job role and in all honesty, was dubious of using one. However, you have completely changed my opinion and I would have no hesitation in recommending you and the service you provide. The teamwork displayed by you and your team has been excellent, the service was timely and responsive. I felt all the support you gave me got me through that interview process and I have you and the team to thank for the success of it!"
"I would thank the Meridian Health team for all of their hard work and effort in helping me find a new job. Throughout the entire application process, the Meridian team put all their effort into ensuring my application was successful. Despite how difficult some of my previous employers where to get a hold of for reference and date checks, they persevered through it until they got a hold of the information they needed. In addition to this any time there was an update in my application status, Meridian ensured I was kept in the loop by emailing me any and all updates with my application. Thanks to the exceptional effort put in by Meridian Health, I am now starting my induction training. I'm so excited to be starting such a rewarding, yet challenging role. If you're looking for work or looking for a career change, I would highly recommend taking the time to contact Meridian Health. As I have no doubt that they will help and support you, in finding and securing your new job."
"Mark was a valuable asset in assisting me to find a new position away from retail. Being typecast before I always found it challenging to get my CV noticed. Thankfully Mark work worked his magic and landed me the perfect 'foot in the door position'! I have now been a sales administrator/office manager for nearly a year now and have gained so much experience within that position. Throughout the whole experience I felt like I was supported and encouraged."
"Overall my experience in finding a job with Meridian was great! I know I already had an idea of the position I wanted when I came to your office, but you sorted out an interview straight away and were really helpful. The contact from you throughout the interview process was fab! Calls before and after the interview made the process feel really personal, so thank you! Even after I'd started the position, you still kept in touch, which I found really thoughtful. Hopefully I won't need Meridian any time soon, however definitely wouldn't hesitate to use you again!"
"I wanted to say thank you for all your help over the last couple of months. From my initial application you have provided a top class service but above all, it’s been a personal service. You took a great amount of time to get to know me, understand my strengths and the direction I wanted my career to go. It soon became apparent that you have a similar relationship with your clients as you were able to talk about their business, their ethos and had a good knowledge about the roles being offered. This was invaluable in preparing for the interviews you secured for me and I felt confident going to the interviews that I was already a good match for the role and the business. Even knowing you had been to the site and could advise where to park and what door to aim for was great as Google maps can only go so far! Thank you again for understanding that a career isn’t always about promotion, but sometimes a sideways step is needed to establish the right direction in the right surroundings and I appreciate how this was communicated to potential employers. I’m really pleased with the role you helped secure for me and I’m excited about the potential for me to develop in what already feels like a comfortable business environment. My new role was advertised with multiple agencies and, despite the same CV and covering letter being sent, you were the only agency who had the necessary knowledge and understanding of both your clients and candidates to put me forward. I have taken great pleasure in replying to the rejection emails from the other agencies saying “the depth & quality” of the other candidates meant I had “been unsuccessful on this occasion!"
"I have been looking to find a suitable position for a few months that met my requirement of the right pay as well as utilising my skills. Debbie was able to place me in a full time job that matched my unique personal and professional requirements. She was extremely supportive in preparation for interview, following up and helping to negotiate terms that were suitable for both me and my employer. Her friendly, personal approach during this process was of great benefit to me and I am very grateful for all the positive guidance she gave me."
"Ged gave me plenty of advice and guidance on how to perform in interview. He prepared me for what the job was/is and what to expect from that sector of employment. He did a fab job of boosting my confidence in my abilities before interview. I received a very personable service that was tailored to my personal skills and style. I felt well looked after and also felt he had the best interest of the client in mind as he was quite constructively critical with me in order to make sure I was the right candidate for the job."
"I just like to thank you for preparing all the various documents for the interview with employer. The briefing was in such detail, which was extremely useful. This is one of the best experiences I had with a recruiter."
"Gerard has been very attentive, encouraging and has boosted my confidence. Talking me through the whole process of applying for the job, the role and the employer. He has kept me updated, even if it was just to let me know he has not received any information. Very easy and smooth, hassle free. I just left everything to Gerard and Jennifer."
"I have been struggling to find a suitable position for about a year that met my requirements of a work-life balance as well as utilising my skills. Shirley was able to place me in a part-time job that matched my unique personal and professional requirements. She was extremely supportive in preparation for the interview, following up and helping to negotiate terms that were suitable for both me and my employer. Her friendly, personal approach during this process was of great benefit to me and I am very grateful for all the positive guidance she gave me."
"I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend Meridian's services to anyone looking for their dream job! "Meridian got in touch with me this month with a perfect job in a perfect location. My recruitment consultant, Ged, has been spectacular, communication has been brilliant and I felt thoroughly prepared for my interview and it went very well indeed. I'm so excited to be joining a company that seems so well matched to my skills and ambitions. It was particularly brilliant to have salary negotiations done on my behalf and I'm extremely happy with the result! I'm very grateful to Meridian and would happily recommend them to anyone."
"This is my first experience of applying for a post through a recruitment company and have found it to be a very good one. I received a very prompt email response to my enquiry followed up by a phone call to discuss my CV. Ged and I had a very thorough discussion about what I was looking for and what would be the ‘right’ post for me as an individual. From start to finish the relationship has been very professional, realistic, open and honest with excellent communication. In particular I felt very well prepared by Ged for the interview process which was very different to my past experiences. The whole process has been smooth and efficient, resulting in securing a great role for myself. I have some experience of working in the recruitment industry and would be very happy to highly recommend Meridian to both candidates and clients alike."
I was contacted by Meridian in March 2015 and offered an interview at SSST NHS FT for a procurement assistant. I have been working In this post for the 18 months. Meridian has matched my skills and experience perfectly as I am enjoying my job and obtained a permanent place at SSST. Meridian is providing a services and support for its employees on the highest level, I never had any payment or holidays queries, all documents and statements I have asked for were provided as a matter of hours. As a matter of fact I have interacted with Meridian on a daily basis as my post at SSSfT includes temporary staff management and employment agencies queries and I must say Meridian services are excellent. I will be recommending Meridian to job seeker and to employers. Laura and Clare once again thank you for everything, it was a pleasure.
I have been contacted by Meridian in March 2015 and offered an interview at SSST NHS FT for a procurement assistant. I have been working In this post for the 18 months. Meridian has matched my skills and experience perfectly as I am enjoying my job and obtained a permanent place at SSST. Meridian is providing a services and support for its employees on the highest level, I never got any payment or holidays queries, all documents and statements I have asked for were provided as a matter of hours. As a matter of fact I have interacted with Meridian on a daily basis as my post at SSST includes temporary staff management and employment agencies queries and I must say Meridian services are excellent. I will be recommending Meridian to job seeker and to employers. Laura and Clare once again thank you for everything, it was a pleasure and as I previously mentioned we will be in touch anyway.
I have been working for Meridian for approximately 3 months now. Meridian is a great agency to work with... They are fast, professional and efficient, also shifts are allocated in a convenient manner. The time sheets are easy to compete and therefore I have received prompt payment for my work. All the staff are very approachable and helpful. Michelle Taylor has been a fantastic support to me. Michelle, helped me through the registration process, I couldn't believe how quickly it took. I also had to report a concern, regarding a patient falling during one of my shifts, I felt reassured and supported from the Meridian team. I feel confident when representing Meridian that I have their full support.
Hi Shirley I wanted to say thank you for all your help over the last couple of months. From my initial application you have provided a top class service but, above all, it’s been a personal service. You took a great amount of time to get to know me, understand my strengths and the direction I wanted my career to go. It soon became apparent that you have a similar relationship with your clients as you were able to talk about their business, their ethos and had a good knowledge about the roles being offered. This was invaluable in preparing for the interviews you secured for me and I felt confident going to the interviews that I was already a good match for the role and the business. Even knowing you had been to the site and could advise where to park and what door to aim for was great as Google maps can only go so far! Thank you again for understanding that a career isn’t always about promotion, but sometimes a sideways step is needed to establish the right direction in the right surroundings and I appreciate how this was communicated to potential employers. I’m really pleased with the role you helped secure for me and I’m excited about the potential for me to develop in what already feels like a comfortable business environment. My new role was advertised with multiple agencies and, despite the same CV and covering letter being sent, you were the only agency who had the necessary knowledge and understanding of both your clients and candidates to put me forward. I have taken great pleasure in replying to the rejection emails from the other agencies saying “the depth & quality” of the other candidates meant I had “been unsuccessful on this occasion”! With best wishes
I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend the Meridian services to anyone looking for their dream job!
I got the job I wanted through Meridian. From the outset, the support I’ve received from my recruitment consultant, Mike, has been invaluable. He has really gone the extra mile to ensure that I was fully prepared for the interview and has chased up some job related queries on my behalf. I’m very grateful for all this support and would definitely recommend the Meridian services to anyone looking for their dream job!
Hi Michelle I absolutely loved my first shift... It was brilliant. Thanks so much for making the recruitment process so easy and quick! I am very happy to be working for Meridian.
I just wanted to send a quick email to say thank you very much for all your help recently, especially with trying to get me in with Landmark. I really appreciate all your hard work and my apologies if I sounded a bit deflated on the phone yesterday. Based on experiences with other recruitment agencies during the last couple of months (mentioning no names!) I can definitely say that the service you provide and your dedication is above and beyond what I have experienced elsewhere and I thank you for that.
Being new to Exeter it was very challenging to find a permanent job. I had just left a very bad workplace and I was lucky enough to have been contacted by the consultants from Meridian. I was greeted by professional, friendly staff who treated me like a person and listened, showing that my needs were important to them. Very quickly a job was matched with my skills and experience, and in walking distance so an interview was set up. I felt that the consultants knew that my confidence was a bit low and I was asked to come in for a talk before my interview. This talk was so kind and caring and gave me the confidence to face an interview. I got the job. I felt the job matched what I was capable of and more. As they mentioned, they had matched me to a lovely working team too. I have now been taken on permanently and cannot thank Meridian enough. Meridian take the time to get to know you. They are easy to communicate with and are very responsive. I cannot thank Karen and Mags enough for their outstanding help in finding me a job that I am happy doing and working with a great team. I have recommended Meridian to everyone I know and if I needed their help again I would not hesitate in visiting them again.
I’m just dropping this quick email to say thank you very much for finding me this job. I love my job, I love people I work with and it’s amazing. For the first time in a long time I feel happy and all this because of you who gave me this fantastic opportunity.
Louise is a the best recruiter I have ever had the pleasure to work with. She is absolutely wonderful. She is honest, professional, extremely hard working, and will go that extra mile to make sure that her client is happy, and making the right decisions. I feel blessed to have met Louise, and would highly recommend her to all my friends and family if ever they are looking for a job. She really is the best.
I came across Meridian purely by chance and what a pleasant surprise! An employment agency that did what it said on the tin... Incredibly professional, honest and open, with a human side. It was a pleasure to be treated as an individual and from the first point of contact Shirley did everything she could to ensure I was listened to and matched with potential suitable employers. To top off my experience I was successful in gaining the first position that I applied for, partly I feel as a result if the careful matching that Meridian/Shirley carried out. Would I recommend Meridian? Yes most definately. Would I use them again? Yes without hesitation.
I am two weeks into my new role and absolutely love this job! I wanted to express my appreciation for all of Imogen’s help. My dream job wouldn’t of been possible without her. Unlike most recruitment agencies, I was really impressed with Imogen’s personal but professional approach and her attention to detail when discussing the role in question. She consistently kept on top of things and kept me informed throughout the whole interview process. Helping and advising me for the first and second interview, always making sure that I was ready. I will continue to promote and recommend Imogen at Meridian Business Support in the future, as I believe she is one Resource Manager amongst a sea of them that truly stands out from the rest!
I have worked for the same company in a senior management position for many years so was totally unprepared for the job market when I re entered it looking for a change in direction. I had no idea where to start in my search and applied for a job advertised with Meridian Business support. From my first conversation with Shirley at Meridian Business Support, I felt confident that she was interested in finding me a career position that would suit me as a person as well as my work skills and ability. She supported me throughout the recruitment process, from helping me improve my CV to ringing me after my first day and after my first week in my new job to see how it was going. Shirley instinctively knew that I was the right person for the role that she put me forward for as she understood her clients needs. I was successful at my first interview and I truly feel that this played a huge part in my success. I am now in my new role, which is a totally new career path for me and I am really enjoying the new challenges and people that I am working with. The personal touch and attention to detail that Shirley and Louise at Meridian Business Support adopt towards recruitment made what I thought would be an ordeal, a positive and supportive experience. I would thoroughly recommend them to any business.
I am happy to say I have accepted a role as Operation Director for a Medical supply company looking after Logistics, supply chain and Customer Service. I would like to say of all the agencies and consultancies I dealt with, you and your colleague were the most human, courteous and charming which made your professionalism all the more outstanding. Sadly not everyone I dealt with had that touch. May I take this opportunity to thank you for your kindness and consideration in looking after me and thank you for all your efforts. Truly they were much appreciated and never taken for granted.
From start to finish Rikin and Meridian were fantastic. Whether it was following up on the many questions I had asked or keeping me updated on the progress/status of my potential new role. It's safe to say that thanks to Meridian and Rikin, I have found my perfect role . Overall I'd say absolutely over the moon with them! And couldn't have asked for a better person to help me through than Rikin.
Just to say a very special thank you for getting me the job I wanted, the service I received from you was one in a million, it’s very rare when you deal with any agency that they stay in touch and take time out of their own spare time to call and give you advice and put you first. I will definitely recommend anyone who is looking for a job in the future to get in touch with you and if there is anyone at Meridian I could speak with to get you the praise you deserve then I'll be glad to do it. I still can’t believe how good the job is that you found me I'm still over the moon, so thanks again Emma and hopefully I will get the chance to deal with you again one day.
I would like to start with a thank you. For you and all of your team. You have been more than helpful in regards of my personal needs and circumstances. I have never experienced treatment like it before. Within a week you had me a job in a place I'd like to spend a lot of time with. I cannot thank Meridian enough. I hope I don't have to deal with being part time again but if I do Meridian will be my first option. Thanks again for the services time and commitment.
Dear Sir, I think the world of the Chester branch. They are very special people. They have always helped me with work, from time to time. Someone of my age (59) work is hard to come by one reason why I look one way Meridian I think you are the best.
Emma has been a total pleasure to deal with. She really cares about what she does. I have never in my career seen someone so dedicated to their work. She was often working long hours around my schedule in order to help me find the right role. Emma is very professional from start to finish. She takes the time to understand the client and candidate ensuring a positive match. She will help you and guide you through the whole recruitment process and answer any questions you may have. I would have no hesitation in recommending her as a recruiter for her work. She is a credit to her industry and her company.
This is just a few words to say how happy I have been with the service I have received whilst with Meridian Business Support with yourself as my consultant. Since joining in early October I have been impressed with the level of professionalism and courtesy shown to me. All the shifts I have been given have included detailed instructions and directions and plenty of notice given, which is not always the case with agency work. I would have no hesitation in working for or recommending yourself or Meridian to others.
I would like to personally thank you for the help you have done with finding me a permanent job. Without you I probably would still be unemployed, sitting at home, pulling my hair out. Also whilst going to look for work at the same time and always walking away with the same answer all the time. You are the only person I know who actually put their faith and trust in me without actually knowing me personally. You risked putting me in there so they could see me for who I really am rather than reading off of paper. Words really cannot explain how thankful I am for helping me and helping me realise I can do it and I can succeed. Since I started this position things have really started to turn around for me and my life just gets better and better everyday due to the fantastic benefits of having a permanent job. I can’t be more thankful to anybody but you. Thank you so, so, so, so much Shirley, you’ve made me the happiest boy ever. P.S.. That drinks offer still stands for when I get paid. Many thanks once again
Thank you for your help in trying to find me a position. Throughout my long search for employment (apart from the temping jobs) Meridian was the only agency that got me any interviews. I felt very disillusioned with my experience with other agencies and am quite tempted to write to them letting them know what I think but I know they wouldn't read it! I would have no hesitation contacting you if I ever find myself looking for work again.
I have found you to be professional, efficient and helpful in dealings with any queries/problems I have had. I get the feeling you put yourself into the shoes of the people you are dealing with and address issues as if they were your own. Good customer service is not as common a skill as people might think. I’m happy to report that my experience of Meridian and especially my dealing with you have been a positive one. My compliments on a job well done, and if you ever need a recommendation (verbal or written) please don’t hesitate to ask.
I have dealt with many recruitment agencies lately, but yours has by far been the most efficient, helpful and competent consultant that I have dealt with. Should I be seeking employment again I wouldn't hesitate to contact Meridian Business Support. It's apparent that the team in Witney are doing a fantastic job, keep up the good work!
I wanted to thank you for putting me forward for the recent job role. I also wanted to let you know how useful the documents about interview techniques and the job interview were, particularly when one has not had to be interviewed for a while. I also wanted to let you know that yours is the first agency I have come across who actually talk to job seekers in a pleasant manner and are helpful, so thanks for that as well.
This is just a few words to say how happy I have been with the service I have received whilst with Meridian Business Support with yourself as my consultant. Since joining in early October I have been impressed with the level of professionalism and courtesy shown to me. All the shifts I have been given have included detailed instructions and directions and plenty of notice given, which is not always the case with agency work. I would have no hesitation in working for or recommending yourself or Meridian to others.
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Latest News
Registered Nurses we need you!
Meridian Nursing & Care have access to 1000’s of nurse shifts covering General NHS Hospital Wards, A&E, Critical Care and Theatres in the following areas: Macclesfield | Stoke-on-Trent | Crewe | Stafford | Newcastle-under-Lyme | Shrewsbury | Telford | Lancashire | Greater Manchester | Merseyside | Cheshire For further information call Meridian Health on 01782 209091 or email coxford@meridianbs.co.uk Benefits of working for Meridian: Excellent rates of pay Flexible hours to meet your needs Free mandatory training Excellent referral scheme - receive £200 each time you refer a nurse to Meridian Nursing & Care – terms apply* Holiday Pay* Loyalty Scheme Meridian Temp Club Choice of payment options – PAYE, umbrella and limited company Competitive pay rates - holiday pay can be paid hourly or accrued View payments anytime - access payslips and lots more with your secure online personal login Support with revalidation and appraisals - follow our step-by-step revalidation guide Dedicated 24/7 support – your own dedicated consultant during the day and friendly, professional support from our out-of-hours team Dedicated Clinical Lead Nurse Work for one of the largest multi award-winning recruitment companies in the UK For further information call Meridian Health on 01782 209091 or email coxford@meridianbs.co.uk Click here to like us on Facebook!
23
Aug
Meridian launch Nursing & Care Company Page on Facebook
Meridian Nursing & Care is one of the UK's leading recruitment agencies specialising in the supply of nurses and care workers to the NHS and Private sector. We have created a company Facebook page to keep our candidates up to date with the latest jobs, news and career advice for the health sector! Please click here to like our page!
22
Aug
Business community rallies around NCS programme
Meridian's Exeter branch has teamed up with The National Citizen Service and other local businesses to deliver a programme which has seen 500 young people take part in activities, ranging from a residential stay in Cornwall to developing a social action project. The National Citizen Service (NCS) scheme is delivered in Exeter by the CITY Community Trust. For just £50 the young people, who are aged between 15 and 17, sign up to the programme, which includes a week in Cornwall, life skills classes at Bicton College and in the final two weeks, the planning and delivery of a social action project. Danny Harris, of CITY Community Trust, who oversees the programme, said business support was vital to its success. He added: ‘We are incredibly lucky in Exeter to have a business community which is hugely supportive of both the work the charity does in the community and more specifically, in this case, the support it gives to the NCS programme. ‘The young people spend a week at Bicton College learning life skills and we have been extremely fortunate to have business people who give up their time to support this section of the programme.’ Companies that supported this part of the programme included Meridian Business Support, Sarah West Recruitment, Jay’s Aim, CEDA BisNet, Northcott Theatre, McQueenie Mulholland and Santander. Paula Thompson from our Exeter branch presented two days of employability workshops to the young people. She said: ‘The workshops encouraged the participants to identify skills that they have gained from the NCS Programme and other activities, which can assist them in their future careers. Meridian were delighted to support the NCS Programme and look forward to further involvement in the future.’ The groups are tasked with producing social action projects which are designed to make a difference to their community. Over the summer they have been working with a number of local charities and their ideas were then pitched to a panel in a Dragons’ Den format. Danny added: ‘I’d also like to express my gratitude to the business leaders who have given their time to support the Dragons Den. Some going on to act as mentors to the young people and even donating their own money to the good causes. It is this kind of support which really demonstrates the generosity and kindness of our business community in Exeter.’
13
Aug
Welcome to Meridian - James Bridgford
We are delighted to welcome James Bridgford to Meridian! James will be heading up our Manchester Nursing & Care Branch! James has worked in Recruitment for the last 12 years, beginning his career in the Industrial sector before accepting a new challenge in Healthcare/Nursing recruitment 6 years ago. During this time James has specialised in the supply of temporary staffing to the NHS covering most specialities of Nursing. James says: "My aim is to put Meridian Nursing and Care back on the map! I am looking forward to a new challenge and with the help of my team, we will take Meridian Nursing & Care to the next level. In my spare time I like to keep myself busy spending time with my family and going for days out. During the summer months I can often be found trying to play golf and cricket and during the winter months watching Manchester United! I also enjoy travelling exploring the world and experiencing different foods and cultures. " Email: jbridgford@meridianbs.co.uk | Mobile: 07795 707528 Click here for more information about Meridian Nursing & Care
07
Aug
Meridian Business Support Granted Place on CCS Framework
We are delighted to announce that Meridian has been granted accredited supplier status on the new RM6160 Recruitment services framework with the Crown Commercial Service (CCS). The framework agreement ensures best value for organisations across the NHS & UK Public Sector, when procuring goods and services. Meridian has been approved to support the public sector with Non Clinical interim and fixed term recruitment requirements within the following disciplines: Admin & Clerical Corporate Functions Clinical Coding Ancillary Staff This award further demonstrates Meridian’s commitment to the NHS and the Wider Public Sector in delivering a safe, quality and compliant workforce in a cost-effective and efficient way, which meets the pressures and demands of the Public Sector. For further information on the Services that Meridian can offer, please contact Carl Murphy on 01924 205010.
31
Jul
Meridian's Mental Health Aware Training
Raising awareness of mental health and challenging the stigmas attached to it is, rightly so, receiving a lot of press at the moment. Mental health is part of everyday life, just as much as physical health, and it is estimated that in any one year approximately one in four people experience a diagnosable mental health issue. Unfortunately the long-standing stigma around mental health means that many people have a limited understanding of it which in turn makes it difficult for some people to seek help when they need it – apparently, people are three times more likely to discuss physical ailments at work than concerns about mental health. With this is mind, increasing understanding about mental health is essential, not just for the benefit of our people but for our candidates too. The Taylor Report found that workers in the gig economy are at a higher risk of suffering mental health issues due to the nature of the work that they do so having an awareness and being able to signpost people towards support should they need it could help make all the difference for some people. As part of Meridian’s commitment to raising mental health awareness, we are rolling out several initiatives to help create a mentally healthy workplace. We already have a 24/7 counselling service provided by members of our HR Team who have been trained as Mental Health First Aiders and in addition to this, all our of line managers have been invited to attend Mental Health First Aid (Mental Health First Aid) Training. Above are some photos from a recent session held in Chippenham.
30
Jul
Meridian Launches New Division
Today, Meridian Business Support has launched an exciting new division called MBS Response to focus solely on high volume recruitment accounts. Meridian is already a high volume recruitment specialist and has launched the new division in response to a demand from our current clients for a ‘no frills’ yet fast and reliable, high volume recruitment service. MBS Response which will focus on the food and distribution sectors, is the vision of Derek Skelton, Meridian’s CEO, who for 26 years ran an agency that had over 150 specialist high volume Onsite operations. Derek Skelton commented: “Meridian has been trading for 30 years this year; we are in an excellent position to start this new division following the outstanding work completed over the last three years in growing the branch network and key accounts. There is a need and a demand from our current clients to offer volume recruitment and onsite options. With my background in Volume Recruitment, this venture is taking me back to my roots.”
23
Jul
Meridian Gains Cyber Essentials Certification
Meridian is delighted to have been awarded our Cyber Essentials Certification. Cyber Essentials is a government certification scheme which assesses the IT Security status of a business. It covers a variety of areas including: Boundary Firewalls | Secure Configuration | Access Control | Patch Management | Password-Based authentication | Anti-Malware Software In order to gain our certification, we had to define and provide evidence of how we approach IT security in these areas. The answers and evidence were then independently assessed by a specialist security company who also undertook testing of our IT systems using techniques such as port scanning to establish the level of security. We are confident that this will give our clients and candidates even more reassurance that when they use Meridian their data is dealt with in a safe and secure way, with the highest levels of protection available. To contact your local branch, please click here.
03
Jul
Meridian Signs up to the GLAA Construction Protocol
Modern slavery, which includes forced labour and human trafficking, is a form of organised crime based on profiting from the exploitation of vulnerable people. It’s easy to think of modern slavery as something that happens in other far-off countries, but the reality is that it happens much closer to home. Meridian is committed to helping eradicate slavery in all of the industries we operate in and in the UK, the Construction industry is particularly susceptible to modern slavery as labour is often employed through sub-contractors or agents. Meridian has recently signed up to the GLAA Construction Protocol, a joint agreement between the GLAA (Gangmaster and Labour Abuse Authority) and some of the biggest names in UK Construction with the aim of eradicating slavery and labour exploitation in the building industry. The agreement commits signatories to: Work in partnership to protect vulnerable workers Agree to share information, where possible, to help stop or prevent the exploitation of workers Work together to manage information sensitively and confidentially Commit to raising awareness within the supply chain Maintain momentum through this protocol by communicating regularly Meridian already has robust procedures in place in regard to Modern Slavery. We already work with the GLAA as we are a GLAA Licence and our partner status with Stronger Together underpins this. Furthermore, our Learning and Development Team delivers mandatory legislation training across the business, which ensures that all of our staff are kept abreast of issues in this area. Derek Skelton, CEO, said “I am very pleased that we have signed up to the Construction Protocol, joining forces with other Construction companies to help eradicate slavery. Taking advantage of vulnerable people is something that still happens even though we can’t easily see it in our day to day lives. Anything we can do to support the fabulous work the GLAA and Stronger Together teams do we will.” GLAA Deputy Director of Business Change Mark Heath said: “We are delighted that Meridian Business Support has signed up to our Construction Protocol and pledged to fight modern slavery and labour abuse. “When organisations agree to the protocol, they commit to work in partnership with us to protect vulnerable and exploited workers. They also agree to share information to stop exploitation and pledge to raise awareness of slavery through supply chains. “Around three million people are employed in UK construction and the industry contributes over £100 billion to the economy. However, there are challenges and we consider construction to be a high risk sector for labour abuse and exploitation. “It is therefore more important than ever for respected organisations such as Meridian Business Support to sign up to the protocol and work with us to protect the reputation of the construction industry. Together, we can put an end to modern slavery and labour exploitation for good.” Meridian is dedicated to meeting the requirements of this agreement, not just in policy and procedure but in custom and practise at all times throughout our business.
01
Jul
Changes to the Off Payroll Working Rules (IR35)
What is IR35? IR35 or ‘off-payroll working rules’ became law in 2000 where it was introduced to crack down on freelance contractors who had incorporated themselves into what’s known as a Personal Service Company (PSC) that could take advantage of the tax benefits but were still considered to be an employee, aka ‘disguised employees’. IR35 was to ensure the contractor assessed themselves properly by assignment paying a similar amount of income tax and NI as if they were employed where they were really a disguised employee. The liability for getting this assessment wrong generally sat with the PSC. HMRC made some changes to IR35 in the Public Sector in April 2017 and announced in 2018 they would make similar changes to the Private Sector from April 2020 to stop the perceived tax abuse by companies engaging with what are thought to be disguised workers and paying them as self-employed. What are the changes I need to know about? It’s important to know that IR35 and the method for determining an IR35 status is not actually changing. What is changing is the responsibility and liability for getting the assessment wrong. From April 2020, for private sector hirers, the responsibility for determining the IR35 status of a PSC will move from the PSC to the company that engages with the PSC (the hirer). The liability for getting the status wrong and / or not deducting and charging the right taxes and NICS will initially move to the fee payer (commonly a recruitment agency) as long as everyone in the supply chain fulfils their responsibilities. This liability currently sits with the PSC. Should HMRC find that a hirer hasn’t taken ‘reasonable care’ when setting the IR35 status, the liability will be transferred to the hirer whether they are the fee payer or not. In certain circumstances the liability can move up the supply chain. If an assignment is deemed to be inside IR35, the contractor can still be paid via their limited company, but the fee payer is obliged to charge Employers NICs and Apprenticeship Levy and deduct Employees NICS and Income Tax from the payment made to the PSC. This status determination is only for tax purposes. HMRC states it doesn’t apply to employment status; however, claims are already being made by contractors in the Public sector - if they are being taxed as a worker then should they not be treated as a worker and be entitled to holiday pay, auto enrolment and other worker rights? Small company hirers (likely to be the Companies House definition of less than 50 employees) are out of scope of this change. Anti-avoidance measures will be included in the final legislation and measures will be taken for non-incorporated hirers such as partnerships or public sector entities. How is IR35 Status determined? There are a number of pointers towards a PSC being inside or outside for an assignment which are supported by case law. Items such as taking financial risk, there being the right of substitution, mutuality of obligation all point towards whether someone is inside or outside of IR35. Simplistically, if a contractor and employee are indistinguishable from each other in how they are treated but for the fact one is paid via their PSC it is highly likely they should be deemed to be inside IR35. How can I ensure I’m prepared for the changes? First and foremost, you need to make sure you understand the rules and what is likely to deem an assignment to be inside or outside of IR35. Whilst Meridian are not qualified to give professional advice on these matters we understand the issues involved and are partnering with legal teams who can offer professional assistance with making determinations regarding IR35 status. If you would like any further information on the changes to IR35 or would like any help in how to prepare for this change please email IR35@meridianbs.co.uk Form ID:4540
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