The use of temporary workers rose 10% in March, according to the latest data from procurer of temporary agency labour, de Poel.

Figures show that the number of hours worked by temporary agency workers increased by an average of 10.36% in March, with sectors such as construction growing by 47% and retail by 12%.  

Matthew Sanders, chief executive of de Poel, says: “This data shows that businesses are still wary about employing permanent staff and so temporary workers are a brilliant solution to business fluctuations and the need for short-term labour.

“With the new Agency Workers Regulations coming into force in October, organisations need to start preparations for the introduction now, otherwise there could be a huge increase in the cost of temporary labour.”