The REC response to the latest labour market statistics.

elsewhere (for the time-being) but one definite outcome is that we have one more job-seeker out there following the departure of the Culture Secretary’s special adviser Adam Smith.The resignation came on the back of allegations that he held inappropriate discussions with News Corporation while the media giant was bidding to take over BSkyB. How do you bounce back from something as high-profile as this? I got some interesting feedback from IRP and REC members on how they would advise Adam Smith to go about finding his next job.

The REC is recruiting a ‘member engagement apprentice’.

The RCN ICM Research Survey has highlighted significant problems with patient care in hospitals. At the same time as the RCN has stated health services in the community are at breaking point- with cuts to councils and hospitals placing an extra burden on community nurses- the survey shows that patients are being placed on hospital trolleys for many hours and treated in corridors not appropriate for care.

The REC met earlier this week the Employment Relations Minister Norman Lamb and his team. The aim was to establish a positive working relationship with the new Minister and to build on the strong links we had previously developed with his predecessor Ed Davey.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has developed a range of online services to put people in greater control of their job seeking and benefit activity. The stated aim is to enable individuals to access information at their own pace, at a time that is convenient to them, with help at hand via direct.gov.uk.

David and Samantha Cameron have hired a nanny after a series of long distance interviews over the internet. Sammi Strange registered with a nanny agency before she left her native Australia and has been recruited by the Camerons for a six week temporary contract to cover their permanent nanny. Media reports have focused on her past, which reputedly includes excessive drinking, smoking and shoplifting. This does not matter, what matters is her present ability to look after children and provide a safe and secure environment for their development. Questions remain about how it was ascertained that the former advertising sales assistant is suitably qualified and vetted to be a nanny other than via Skype.

Yesterday’s Queen’s speech outlined the Government’s legislative programme for the coming year. There are a number of areas with a direct implications for the recruitment industry.