flexible working arrangements

The labour market is constantly changing. Employers are increasingly turning to flexible workers compared to the past. Flexible employment arrangements are any employment arrangements other than those based on a permanent contract of employment. Flexible workers enable employers to respond quickly and cost-effectively to changing circumstances both within and outside the company.  Given the strict employment termination laws, an employer is often unable to achieve the desired level of flexibility by employing staff on permanent contracts alone. 

Examples of flexible employment arrangements include the use of agency workers, seconded staff, self-employed workers and payroll employees. Employees may also be offered (initially) a fixed-term  employment contract.

Employers’ freedom to use flexible workers is not unlimited.