The number of compilants handled by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) has increased by 11% on 2008, according to the REC’s 2009 complaints report.

The report also shows that 40% of the initial complaints lodged were against members and 16% against non-members.

Almost a quarter (24%) of complaints came from permanent candidates, while 20% were from temporary jobseekers. Around 15% came from clients while the remaining 41% were from member and non-member agencies, employees and ex-employees and the REC itself.

Holiday pay and other financial issues such as non-payment of wages accounted for almost half  (47%) of complaints, while other topics included unprofessional conduct, customer care and false advertising.