DLME publish 23/24 enforcement strategy

Earlier this week the Director of Labour Market Enforcement (DLME) published their 2023/24 Labour Market Enforcement Strategy. The REC fed into this strategy initially back in 2022, and earlier this year also submitted our response in advance of the 24/25 strategy that is due to be published by the end of March 2024.

This year's strategy sets out some key areas for the DLME, and also gives us some insight as to how the future 24/25 strategy will shape up - of particular importance given the likelihood of a new government coming in next year. The content of this year's strategy is heavily aligned with the other recent strategies that have been published since Margaret Beels was appointed to the role of Director of Labour Market enforcement in November 2021.

One of the key topics covered in this year's strategy is the creation of a Single Enforcement Body (SEB). This was first raised in 2019 and has drifted from the current government's plans. However, the DLME remains interested in reviving these plans, and the REC is also supportive of this approach. But for now, in the absence of an imminent SEB, the DLME has instead set out their intention to explore options to enhance and extend the work of existing enforcement bodies. The REC will remain a part of these conversations, particularly where the work of the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate impacts our sector.

The REC will also engage with the DLME on their commitment to raising awareness of employment rights for workers. The DLME has committed to working with government, the enforcement bodies, trade union representatives, and other worker representation groups to enhance knowledge of worker rights. We will keep members updated on this work.

The DLME has also set out a new commitment to addressing the increased fraud related to online recruitment platforms. REC has previously expressed concern about online recruitment platforms operating outside of the remit of the Conduct Regulations, so it is good to see the DLME acknowledging these issues.   

On the issue of Umbrella companies the DLME hasn't said much in this strategy because the government has already started to take steps to address this. The DLME like us is awaiting the outcome of the government's recent call for evidence on this topic and will make recommendations once she knows government plans.

There is plenty of scope in this strategy for the REC to be involved. In advance of the 23/24 strategy being published we will seek members views on what can be done to enhance the powers of existing enforcement bodies in the absence of an SEB. This will help us to drive the work  announced in this strategy to create an effective enforcement strategy for the future.