Compare the price of anything · Serving consumers and businesses across the UK
Ar gael yn GymraegAvailable in Welsh
Browse servicesFind businesses
List your business
Home›Hr Recruitment›Temporary Staff Agency
UK National Overview

Cost of Temporary Staff Agency
across the UK

National price data for Temporary Staff Agency based on estimated ranges across the UK. Compare regions, find local providers, and understand what affects the price.

–
National range
–
Average price
Estimated
Submissions
–
Regions with data
Compare prices in your area
Accreditation & credentials
Trade bodies & what they mean for Temporary Staff Agency

# Temporary Staff Agency Accreditation

Temporary staffing agencies in the UK are primarily regulated by the Employment Agency Standards (EAS) under the Employment Agencies Act 1973, which is overseen by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Beyond this baseline legal requirement, the main trade bodies offering accreditation include the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), which is the industry's largest professional body and sets standards for ethical practice, data protection, and employment law compliance. The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCO) provides similar accreditation with a particular focus on professional and specialist recruitment sectors. Membership of these bodies doesn't replace legal compliance but demonstrates that an agency has committed to higher standards of conduct, transparency, and professional practice than the minimum required by law.

To verify a provider's credentials, you should ask for their REC or APSCO membership number and check it directly on those organisations' websites, as accreditation is a matter of public record. You can also request evidence of their EAS licence and check whether they hold appropriate insurance, including professional indemnity and employers' liability cover. This verification matters because accredited agencies are bound by codes of conduct that protect both workers and the businesses hiring them, including fair fee structures, proper vetting procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Without accreditation, you have fewer recourse options if something goes wrong, and workers may be less well-protected against exploitation.

Accredited temporary staffing agencies typically charge higher fees or mark-ups than non-accredited competitors, often 5 to 15 per cent more depending on the sector and role. This premium reflects the costs of maintaining standards, conducting more rigorous background checks, providing better training to staff, and maintaining compliance systems. While the higher cost may seem like a disadvantage, the premium is usually justified because accredited agencies deliver greater reliability, lower staff turn

Common questions
Temporary Staff Agency — frequently asked questions
How much does Temporary Staff Agency cost in the UK?
Temporary staff agency fees typically range from 15-30% of the worker's hourly wage. Costs depend on role complexity, required skills, and market demand. Entry-level positions cost less than specialised roles. Agency margins vary significantly between providers. Most charge clients weekly or monthly based on hours worked.
What affects the cost of Temporary Staff Agency?
Key cost factors include job role specialisation and skill level required. Industry sector influences pricing significantly—healthcare and IT command higher fees. Contract duration affects rates; shorter placements cost more. Shift timing, including nights and weekends, increases charges. Staff availability and local demand in your region also impact pricing.
What does a Temporary Staff Agency service actually include?
Agencies handle candidate recruitment, screening, and background checks. They manage payroll, tax, and employment paperwork for temporary workers. Services include worker training, skills verification, and ongoing support. Most agencies provide replacement workers if someone doesn't show up. They ensure compliance with employment law and handle disputes.
What's the difference between temp-to-perm and traditional temporary staffing?
Temp-to-perm allows employers to trial workers before permanent employment, with conversion fees applied. Traditional temporary staffing provides short-term cover without permanent employment intent. Temp-to-perm typically involves longer placements and higher agency involvement in training. Conversion timescales vary from weeks to months, depending on contract terms.
What should I check before hiring a Temporary Staff Agency provider?
Verify REC (Recruitment and Employment Confederation) accreditation for professional standards. Check their insurance coverage and employment liability protection. Ask for references from similar businesses you know. Confirm they conduct thorough background and skills checks. Review their health and safety protocols and worker compliance procedures.
How quickly can a Temporary Staff Agency provide workers?
Most agencies can fill urgent positions within 24-48 hours for common roles. Specialised positions may take 3-7 days to source suitable candidates. Emergency cover often available within hours for registered clients. Speed depends on role complexity, required qualifications, and current candidate availability. Planning ahead ensures faster, better-matched placements.
Should I use a local or national Temporary Staff Agency?
National agencies offer larger pools and specialised sector expertise. Local agencies provide better regional knowledge and faster response times. Both are unregulated, so verify REC membership and credentials equally. National agencies suit large-scale, ongoing needs; local agencies work better for niche roles. Choose based on your specific staffing requirements and volume.

Know what you paid?

Help build UK price data for Temporary Staff Agency. Takes 60 seconds.

Submit a priceList your business free
Data overview
National min–
National max–
SubmissionsEstimated
Regions covered–
Data statusEstimated
View methodology →
Related services
Recruitment AgencyHR OutsourcingRecruitment ServicesPerformance Management ConsultingWorkplace Mediation
National price data sourced from business and consumer submissions across the UK. Regional averages are indicative. Methodology · Submit a price · List your business