Dallas Kirkland (Professions) Ltd, the largest insurance broker for recruitment agencies in the UK, has reported an unprecedented level of enquiries for its Legal Expenses Insurance Policy. 30% of clients have requested the policy in addition to standard combined liability cover since the end of February 2005. Dallas Kirkland is working in partnership with FirstAssist, the leading health and wellbeing partner, to provide a comprehensive Legal Expenses Insurance service to its clients.
Robin Kirkland, MD of Dallas Kirkland explains, ìAgencies are worried by the erosion of clearly defined responsibilities in relation to íemployment issuesí. The placement of temporary workers is especially of concern, as clients look to pass on their liabilities to agencies. Staffing companies could easily find themselves called into a tribunal and needing legal representation. Legal advice can cost an agency thousands of s as can compensation awards.
ìHowever, Legal Expenses Insurance is usually available from 320 p.a. and covers the legal fees relating to defending civil proceedings against the agency by employees in connection with a contract of employment, race relations or sexual discrimination plus it will reimburse a subsequent Employment Award. FirstAssist provides a legal helpline, available any time, which is key in helping agencies manage risk at time of preparing contracts and later if a dispute arises. Next year Age Discrimination in the workplace legislation will come into force bringing with it further pressure on agencies to protect against loss.î
Pauline Pembry, Employment Law Services, FirstAssist comments: ìEmployment agencies and businesses have significantly increased their potential risks arising from employment disputes after recent appeal court decisions. Having access to up-to-date support and advice will be a priority for them and this scheme will address all these issues.î
For more information see
Agencies Worried About Employment Liability
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