An agency worker is defined as 'an individual who is supplied by an agency to work temporarily for and under the supervision and direction of a hirer'.
Agency workers who are on assignment at the council do not have a contract of employment with Denbighshire County Council.
Agency workers remain an employee of the supplying Agency.
Agency Workers Policy (PDF, 332KB)
Why use an agency worker?
It may be possible, subject to necessary approval processes, to engage agency workers in the following circumstances:
- To provide cover for short-term, unforeseen and/or unexpected employee shortages;
- To provide specialist skills which are not able to be sourced from within the council;
- To assist during periods of peak workload;
- To undertake a short-term project or task; or
- To provide services for a specific service or to meet a specific need, where for organisational reasons, such use is approved.
Note: If an additional resource need has been identified, managers should in the first instance explore all opportunities to use existing staffing resources within the council. This does not include situations where the cost may be prohibitive such as applying overtime and other additional payments. If this proves unsuccessful, managers should then attempt to fill the role via our recruitment process. Only in circumstances where these options have been explored but not proved possible, should a request for an agency worker be put forward to Matrix.
Engagement of agency workers
Any requests for agency workers should be dealt with through the Matrix system. Should a manager identify that there is a need to approach the services of an agency not named on the Matrix system, would be subject to separate approval and/or tender arrangements. For further information on the tendering process, please contact the Managed Agency Contract Manager.
The engagement of agency workers at the council must be authorised, prior to Matrix being contacted, by the Head of Service and Finance Officer.
Where can I get advice on temporary employees and the process?
In the first instance you should contact your HR Business Partner and discuss your requirements.
Related documents
Guide - Non Guaranteed Hours and Implied Contracts (PDF, 139KB)