Agency workers

[feellikeanalien]

Came back from living abroad last September and finding work situation a nightmare. My partner took a job offered to him by an agency as a painter and decorator. Now it turns out they want him to register as self-employed and are mucking him about on the hours he has to work. He is very experienced but at this stage is only looking for paid employment. Has anyone come across this situation before. We live in Northumberland and any advice would be welcome. Can' believe how much this country has changed in the last 16 years! (and not for the better).

The employer is wanting to avoid paying NI, tax etc for your DP. There are a number of tests as to whether the situation is self-employed or employed. Look at www.gov.uk. Self-employment is not decided by simply registering as self-employed.

Looking at the positive the best qualification for getting a job is having a job. Given that these people are going to muck your DH around then he owes them no loyalty and can start looking for a new job immediately.