HGV Technician£21.49ph + Shift Uplift up to 35% + Benefits CreweDays Only gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a HGV Technician to work at their facility based near CrewePerformance Objectives<ul><li>Responsible for maintaining the company's HGVs.</li><li>Ensuring that all work is completed on time and in compliance with manufacturer guidelines.</li><li>Responsible for carrying out all breakdowns and reactive works to high standards and within the given timeframe.</li><li>You should be able to accurately diagnose electrical and mechanical faults with the HGVs, communicate technical information to your teammates, and escalate any issues to relevant managers.</li><li>You should also possess a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is accurately documented.</li><li>Additionally, you'll demonstrate good diagnostic and fault-finding skills ensuring first-time fix.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Ideally a Class 1 Licence</li><li>Excellent communication skills</li><li>Team player attitude, able to recognise and lend a hand where necessary</li><li>A flexible approach to your hours and duties</li><li>Ability to work unsupervised</li><li>Ability to work in a fast paced environment</li><li>Ideally, you'll have previous experience in a fast-paced distribution environment. Hold an NVQ Level 3 or City &amp; Guild Level 2 in heavy vehicle maintenance or equivalent</li><li>Desirably hold your Irtec. Training and funding can however be supported to achieve your HGV Class 1 licence or Irtec after a successful length of service.</li></ul>ApplyPlease send your CV via the Apply now option on the websiteIf you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touchThis vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency.gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job.Closing Date: 04/10/2026"By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

HGV Technician 

HGV Technician£25.79ph + Shift uplift up to 25% + Benefits + OvertimeThatchamDays Only gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a HGV Technician to work at their facility based near ThatchamPerformance Objectives<ul><li>Responsible for maintaining the company's HGVs.</li><li>Ensuring that all work is completed on time and in compliance with manufacturer guidelines.</li><li>Responsible for carrying out all breakdowns and reactive works to high standards and within the given timeframe.</li><li>You should be able to accurately diagnose electrical and mechanical faults with the HGVs, communicate technical information to your teammates, and escalate any issues to relevant managers.</li><li>You should also possess a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is accurately documented.</li><li>Additionally, you'll demonstrate good diagnostic and fault-finding skills ensuring first-time fix.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Ideally a Class 1 Licence</li><li>Excellent communication skills</li><li>Team player attitude, able to recognise and lend a hand where necessary</li><li>A flexible approach to your hours and duties</li><li>Ability to work unsupervised</li><li>Ability to work in a fast paced environment</li><li>Ideally, you'll have previous experience in a fast-paced distribution environment. Hold an NVQ Level 3 or City &amp; Guild Level 2 in heavy vehicle maintenance or equivalent</li><li>Desirably hold your Irtec. Training and funding can however be supported to achieve your HGV Class 1 licence or Irtec after a successful length of service.</li></ul>ApplyPlease send your CV via the Apply now option on the websiteIf you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touchThis vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency.gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job.Closing Date: 04/10/2026"By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

HGV Technician

HGV Technician£27.50ph + Benefits + OvertimeBristolNightsgap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a HGV Technician to work at their facility based near BristolPerformance Objectives<ul><li>Responsible for maintaining the company's HGVs.</li><li>Ensuring that all work is completed on time and in compliance with manufacturer guidelines.</li><li>Responsible for carrying out all breakdowns and reactive works to high standards and within the given timeframe.</li><li>You should be able to accurately diagnose electrical and mechanical faults with the HGVs, communicate technical information to your teammates, and escalate any issues to relevant managers.</li><li>You should also possess a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is accurately documented.</li><li>Additionally, you'll demonstrate good diagnostic and fault-finding skills ensuring first-time fix.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Ideally a Class 1 Licence</li><li>Excellent communication skills</li><li>Team player attitude, able to recognise and lend a hand where necessary</li><li>A flexible approach to your hours and duties</li><li>Ability to work unsupervised</li><li>Ability to work in a fast paced environment</li><li>Ideally, you'll have previous experience in a fast-paced distribution environment. Hold an NVQ Level 3 or City &amp; Guild Level 2 in heavy vehicle maintenance or equivalent</li><li>Desirably hold your Irtec. Training and funding can however be supported to achieve your HGV Class 1 licence or Irtec after a successful length of service.</li></ul>ApplyPlease send your CV via the Apply now option on the websiteIf you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touchThis vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency.gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job.Closing Date: 04/10/2026"By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

HGV Technician £48,700 Cumbernauld Days Only (Mon-Fri) gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a HGV Technician to work at their facility based near Cumbernauld Performance Objectives<ul><li>Responsible for maintaining the company's HGVs.</li><li>Ensuring that all work is completed on time and in compliance with manufacturer guidelines.</li><li>Responsible for carrying out all breakdowns and reactive works to high standards and within the given timeframe.</li><li>You should be able to accurately diagnose electrical and mechanical faults with the HGVs, communicate technical information to your teammates, and escalate any issues to relevant managers.</li><li>You should also possess a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is accurately documented.</li><li>Additionally, you'll demonstrate good diagnostic and fault-finding skills ensuring first-time fix.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Ideally a Class 1 Licence</li><li>Excellent communication skills</li><li>Team player attitude, able to recognise and lend a hand where necessary</li><li>A flexible approach to your hours and duties</li><li>Ability to work unsupervised</li><li>Ability to work in a fast paced environment</li><li>Ideally, you'll have previous experience in a fast-paced distribution environment. Hold an NVQ Level 3 or City &amp; Guild Level 2 in heavy vehicle maintenance or equivalent</li><li>Desirably hold your Irtec. Training and funding can however be supported to achieve your HGV Class 1 licence or Irtec after a successful length of service.</li></ul>Apply Please send your CV via the Apply now option on the website If you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touch This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency. gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Closing Date: 04/10/2026 "By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

HGV Technician £46,384 Barnsley Days Only (Mon-Fri) gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a HGV Technician to work at their facility based near Barnsley Performance Objectives<ul><li>Responsible for maintaining the company's HGVs.</li><li>Ensuring that all work is completed on time and in compliance with manufacturer guidelines.</li><li>Responsible for carrying out all breakdowns and reactive works to high standards and within the given timeframe.</li><li>You should be able to accurately diagnose electrical and mechanical faults with the HGVs, communicate technical information to your teammates, and escalate any issues to relevant managers.</li><li>You should also possess a keen eye for detail and ensure that all work is accurately documented.</li><li>Additionally, you'll demonstrate good diagnostic and fault-finding skills ensuring first-time fix.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Ideally a Class 1 Licence</li><li>Excellent communication skills</li><li>Team player attitude, able to recognise and lend a hand where necessary</li><li>A flexible approach to your hours and duties</li><li>Ability to work unsupervised</li><li>Ability to work in a fast paced environment</li><li>Ideally, you'll have previous experience in a fast-paced distribution environment. Hold an NVQ Level 3 or City &amp; Guild Level 2 in heavy vehicle maintenance or equivalent</li><li>Desirably hold your Irtec. Training and funding can however be supported to achieve your HGV Class 1 licence or Irtec after a successful length of service.</li></ul>Apply Please send your CV via the Apply now option on the website If you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touch This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency. gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Closing Date: 04/10/2026 "By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

Maintenance Engineer Salary: £52,500 Location: Deeside Continental Days &amp; Nights (2Days/2nights/4off) gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a Maintenance Engineer to work at their facility based near Deeside Performance Objectives<ul><li>Work closely with their Line Manager, taking responsibility for delivering a high-quality engineering service in support of the achievement of operational targets.</li><li>Continuously work to improve the performance of People and Plant to deliver site efficiency and performance standards.</li><li>Complete the full range of maintenance activities across the entire installed asset base within the area that they work.</li><li>Rapidly diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical and basic control &amp; instrumentation faults, within skill levels.</li><li>Complete all work allocated to a high standard, having the ability to complete all maintenance tasks across the installed asset base.</li><li>Working as a key member of the Engineering team, demonstrating Company Values and flexibility to support other teams/departments where required.</li><li>Reporting any non-conformances to Company Policies/Procedures/Standards and supporting corrective action activities.</li><li>Supporting the delivery of key performance indicators for the Factory linked to Safety, Quality, People, Delivery, and Cost standards.</li><li>Pro-actively identifying areas for continuous improvement within the production work environment/equipment/systems.</li><li>Demonstrating a willingness to develop within the role to achieve Excellent Competency Levels.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Time served Electrical or Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship Level 3 City &amp; Guilds / ONC / BTEC</li><li>Food Safety Level 2</li><li>HACCP Level 2</li><li>Statutory Legislation</li><li>IPAF or equivalent</li><li>IEE wiring regulations (current edition)</li><li>Ability to understand and to work to approved Standards / Safe Operating Procedures</li><li>Good understanding and awareness of Safety and Quality Standards within a workplace</li><li>Experience within an environment working to set Standards and key performance indicators</li><li>Experience inputting and analysing data</li><li>Basic user of Microsoft Office - Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint</li></ul>Desirable Skills<ul><li>Powered Pallet Truck Licence</li><li>MHE licences</li><li>IOSH Managing Safely</li><li>Understanding of Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing Approaches</li><li>Ability to Fault Find on Equipment Groups/Machinery</li><li>Ability to Participate in Root Cause Analysis Assessments</li><li>Understanding of Waste Reduction and Yield Management Approaches</li><li>Understanding of Risk Assessment Processes.</li></ul>Apply Please send your CV via the Apply now option on the website If you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touch This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency. gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Closing Date: 05/10/2026 "By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

Maintenance Engineer

Maintenance Engineer Salary: £52,567 Location: Deeside Continental Days &amp; Nights (2Days/2nights/4off) gap technical are proud to be representing this global manufacturing business in their search for a Maintenance Engineer to work at their facility based near Deeside. Performance Objectives<ul><li>Work closely with their Line Manager, taking responsibility for delivering a high-quality engineering service in support of the achievement of operational targets.</li><li>Continuously work to improve the performance of People and Plant to deliver site efficiency and performance standards.</li><li>Complete the full range of maintenance activities across the entire installed asset base within the area that they work.</li><li>Rapidly diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical and basic control &amp; instrumentation faults, within skill levels.</li><li>Complete all work allocated to a high standard, having the ability to complete all maintenance tasks across the installed asset base.</li><li>Working as a key member of the Engineering team, demonstrating Company Values and flexibility to support other teams/departments where required.</li><li>Reporting any non-conformances to Company Policies/Procedures/Standards and supporting corrective action activities.</li><li>Supporting the delivery of key performance indicators for the Factory linked to Safety, Quality, People, Delivery, and Cost standards.</li><li>Pro-actively identifying areas for continuous improvement within the production work environment/equipment/systems.</li><li>Demonstrating a willingness to develop within the role to achieve Excellent Competency Levels.</li></ul>Person Specification<ul><li>Time served Electrical or Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship Level 3 City &amp; Guilds / ONC / BTEC</li><li>Food Safety Level 2</li><li>HACCP Level 2</li><li>Statutory Legislation</li><li>IPAF or equivalent</li><li>IEE wiring regulations (current edition)</li><li>Ability to understand and to work to approved Standards / Safe Operating Procedures</li><li>Good understanding and awareness of Safety and Quality Standards within a workplace</li><li>Experience within an environment working to set Standards and key performance indicators</li><li>Experience inputting and analysing data</li><li>Basic user of Microsoft Office - Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint</li></ul>Desirable Skills<ul><li>Powered Pallet Truck Licence</li><li>MHE licences</li><li>IOSH Managing Safely</li><li>Understanding of Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing Approaches</li><li>Ability to Fault Find on Equipment Groups/Machinery</li><li>Ability to Participate in Root Cause Analysis Assessments</li><li>Understanding of Waste Reduction and Yield Management Approaches</li><li>Understanding of Risk Assessment Processes.</li></ul>Apply Please send your CV via the Apply now option on the website If you have any questions or are interested in any other opportunities we may have, please do not hesitate to get in touch This vacancy is being advertised on behalf of gap technical who are operating as an employment agency. gap technical are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Closing Date: 30/09/2026 "By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our Privacy Policy."

Maintenance Engineer - Contract Salary: £35 per hour (PAYE) Location: Bristol 4on4off Nights Gap Technical is proud to be partnering with a leading national automation business in their search for an experienced Electrical Maintenance Engineer to join their Bristol Facility. This role is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and reputable organisation. Performance Objectives As a Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer - Electrically Biased, you will play a vital role in ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime across all production equipment. Drawing on your technical experience and problem-solving abilities, you will:<ul><li>Identify and rectify root causes of machinery faults, supporting both day-to-day maintenance and long-term improvements.</li><li>Undertake planned maintenance, breakdown response, and annual overhauls to ensure high equipment availability and reliability.</li><li>Provide training and guidance to new and existing staff on machinery and operational processes.</li><li>Maintain and calibrate critical machine settings to support improved efficiency and product quality.</li><li>Collaborate with production teams to plan and execute proactive maintenance strategies.</li><li>Offer support and cover across teams as needed to meet operational demands.</li><li>Drive initiatives to improve engineering practices, reduce downtime, and optimise plant performance.</li></ul>Qualifications and Experience Handling and Automation environment (this would be highly desirable). Multi Skilled Engineer Electrically Bias 70/30 Apprentice trained 18th Edition Wiring Regulations How to Apply To apply, please send your CV via the Apply Now option. For further information or to discuss other opportunities, feel free to reach out. Gap Technical is operating as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all qualified candidates Closing date 20/09/2026

Contract Maintenance Engineer

Ask any technical or engineering business what their biggest recruitment challenge is and the answer probably won&rsquo;t surprise you. Finding good people is hard. (There. We&rsquo;ve said it).
&nbsp;
Across the sector, <a title="Engineering roles" href="https://www.gap-technical.com/employers-specialisms/engineering/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">skilled professionals</a> are in demand. In some areas, there simply isn&rsquo;t enough specialist talent available, but some recruiters still talk as though there's an endless supply of suitable hires waiting to be placed.
&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve got the candidates.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;We can fill this quickly.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have a huge database.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
Then reality kicks in. Weeks pass. The shortlist doesn't materialise. The role stays open. And the client is left wondering what on earth happened.
&nbsp;
Technical and engineering recruitment has changed. Businesses don&rsquo;t need another recruiter promising an easy fix in a complex market. They need someone who understands what&rsquo;s realistic and isn&rsquo;t afraid to say so. No fluff. No &ldquo;we have a magic solution&rdquo;. Just straight conversations with real people who understand the sector and won&rsquo;t pretend finding the right person is simple.
&nbsp;
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">So why are businesses still being let down? </h3>
The skills shortage is real, and <a title="Recruitment challenges" href="https://www.gap-technical.com/employers-news/the-challenges-behind-successful-technical-recruitment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">finding someone</a> with the right technical or engineering experience isn't getting any easier. But some recruiters still treat hiring like a numbers game, even in a market where the right people are in short supply.
&nbsp;
Sending over a pile of CVs might look like progress, but activity isn&rsquo;t the same as getting results. A scattergun approach rarely works for specialist roles. Without understanding what the operation actually needs, it&rsquo;s just adding more noise to the process.
&nbsp;
Technical and engineering hiring needs more than a job advert and a database search. The best searches start with a conversation about the current landscape, not a promise about the outcome.
&nbsp;
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">What do gap technical do differently?</h3>
At gap technical, we&rsquo;d rather be upfront than make promises we can&rsquo;t keep. That means being honest when a role looks like it might be difficult to fill, discussing salary expectations, understanding how many suitable candidates are actually available, and questioning whether the brief reflects the reality of the market.
&nbsp;
Throwing more time at the same search probably won&rsquo;t uncover different results. Sometimes it takes a fresh look, asking whether every requirement is essential or whether there&rsquo;s room to think differently. The earlier those conversations happen, the more options businesses have.
&nbsp;
It also helps to have relationships already in place. Our consultants build relationships with technical and engineering professionals throughout the year, not just when a vacancy lands on their desk. So when clients need support, we&rsquo;re already speaking to relevant people rather than starting the search from scratch.
&nbsp;
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Let&rsquo;s have a conversation</h3>
A difficult hire rarely becomes easier because everyone tiptoes around the elephant in the room. The earlier you talk about what&rsquo;s realistic, the more you can do about it.
&nbsp;
<a title="Get in touch" href="https://www.gap-technical.com/recruit-staff/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Talk to gap technical</a> about your next engineering or technical recruitment challenge. We&rsquo;ll give you an honest view of what&rsquo;s achievable &ndash; and what isn&rsquo;t.

The engineering skills shortage isn’t going away. So what now?

Recruitment has always been about people. But finding, attracting, and retaining the right engineering and <a href="https://www.gap-technical.com/employers-specialisms/engineering/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">technical talent</a> &ndash; well, that&rsquo;s a little trickier.
From skills shortages and increasing competition for specialist talent, to the pressure of keeping operations running and projects on track, employers face challenges that require more than simply filling vacancies. They need a partner who understands their industry, their pain points, and the calibre of people they need to succeed. Enter: gap technical (that&rsquo;s us, by the way).
We believe a successful hiring process isn't measured by placements alone. It's about building lasting partnerships, connecting the right people with the right opportunities, and delivering long-term value for clients and candidates alike. Over the next 12 months, we're exploring the realities shaping engineering and technical recruitment and the approaches that help businesses attract, secure, and most importantly keep specialist talent.
&nbsp;
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Great candidates don't wait around</h4>
The recruitment process doesn&rsquo;t start at interview. It starts with the first conversation. Your agency partner is often the first point of contact a candidate has with your business, which means the way they introduce the opportunity, respond to queries, and manage expectations can be the difference between keeping a candidate engaged and losing them to another opportunity entirely.
Think about the last time you were left waiting for a reply. No update. No explanation. Just... tumbleweed. It&rsquo;s frustrating, right? Candidates are no different. If they don't know what's happening, if feedback disappears into the void, or they're left chasing for an update, they'll naturally assume someone else has their act together. And they probably do.
There&rsquo;s no secret formula for a great candidate experience. It comes down to doing the things that matter: setting realistic expectations, keeping candidates informed, and a recruitment partner who follows through on what they&rsquo;ve promised.
Because candidates don't just remember the role they applied for. They remember how the process made them feel. And in a market where relationships matter, that experience can influence everything from accepting an offer to recommending your business to others.
&nbsp;
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">How gap technical supports a better candidate experience</h4>
If candidate experience matters, then every interaction matters. That&rsquo;s why <a href="https://www.gap-technical.com/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our approach</a> focuses on more than just making a placement. We take the time to understand what candidates are looking for, what matters to them, and whether an opportunity is genuinely the right fit. That means:
<ul type="disc">
<li>Honest conversations from the outset</li>
<li>Clear communication at every touchpoint</li>
<li>Making sure candidates always know where they stand</li>
<li>Understanding the person behind the CV</li>
<li>Supporting candidates as they settle into their new role</li>
</ul>
Our role doesn&rsquo;t end when a candidate accepts an offer. We believe good recruitment should continue to add value beyond the point of placement, ensuring candidates feel supported and giving clients confidence that their new hire is set up for success.
&nbsp;
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The proof is in the feedback</h4>
It&rsquo;s easy to talk about candidate experience. It&rsquo;s much harder to deliver it consistently.
The feedback we receive from engineering and technical professionals tells a consistent story. They value recruiters who keep them informed, explain what&rsquo;s happening, and follow through on what they&rsquo;ve promised. Those things might not sound revolutionary, but they do matter.
Because when candidates feel supported throughout the process, they&rsquo;re far more likely to recommend the recruiter, the employer, and the opportunity to others.
&nbsp;
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Because every interaction counts</h4>
A successful hiring process is about more than filling a vacancy. It&rsquo;s about creating an experience that attracts the right people, keeps them engaged, and builds trust from the first conversation onwards.
In the technical sector, where skilled professionals often have more than one opportunity available, those moments can make all the difference. Want to make every candidate interaction count? <a href="https://www.gap-technical.com/employers-get-in-touch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Let&rsquo;s talk.</a>

The challenges behind successful technical recruitment

After months of amendments between the Commons and the House of Lords, the Employment Rights Bill has now become the Employment Rights Act following Royal Assent on 18th December 2025, formally adopting the UK Government&rsquo;s &ldquo;Make Work Pay&rdquo; reforms.
While many measures are subject to phased commencement and secondary legislation, the final shape of the reforms is now clear. Here&rsquo;s the latest on what&rsquo;s confirmed, what has changed since July, and what remains under consultation.
&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">What&rsquo;s happened since July?</h2>
Since our original briefing:
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li style="color: #242c52;">The Bill completed all Parliamentary stages.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Amendments proposed in the House of Lords have now been resolved.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">The legislation secured Royal Assent on 18th December 2025.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">A formal implementation roadmap has been confirmed.</li>
</ul>
Some early provisions (unchanged from July) took effect immediately on Royal Assent, including:
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li style="color: #242c52;">Repeal of most of the Trade Union Act 2016.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Repeal of the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Simplified industrial action ballet requirements.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Protection from dismissal for taking part in lawful industrial action.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<hr>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Confirmed implementation roadmap and what it means for you</h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div>
<h3>April 2026</h3>
All confirmed and unchanged:
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Statutory sick pay (SSP) reform &ndash; removal of both the Lower Earnings Limit and the 3-day waiting period for SSP.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Day-one rights for paternity leave and unpaid parental leave.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Whistleblowing protections strengthened.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Fair Work Agency to be established - a new statutory body for guidance, oversight, and enforcement: will be established in April 2026.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Simplified trade union recognition process: confirmed and unchanged.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Electronic and workplace balloting for unions introduced.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Doubling of protective award for collective redundancy breaches.</li>
</ul>
<h3>October 2026</h3>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Fire and rehire regulations introduced - new statutory restrictions on using dismissal and re-engagement to change terms.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Clarified: The Act confirmed fire and rehire remains lawful only as a last resort, with explicit requirement to demonstrate genuine business necessity, meaningful consultation, and exploration of alternatives.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Tribunal time limits extended &ndash; exact timeframe to be confirmed.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Clarified: Extension confirmed, with exact duration to be set via secondary legislation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Workplace harassment reforms &ndash; a legal duty to take &ldquo;all reasonable steps&rdquo; to prevent harassment, and protection from harassment by third parties (e.g. clients or customers).</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Fair Pay Agreement body for the adult social care sector.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Two-tier procurement code for public sector contracts.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Tipping law tightened to ensure fair distribution.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Union access and awareness rights &ndash; a duty to inform workers of union rights, strengthening union right of access, and new rights for union representatives.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Extended protections for workers taking industrial action.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h3>&nbsp;2027</h3>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Ban on &ldquo;exploitative zero hours contracts&rdquo; (ZHCs) - includes right to request predictable hours which will extend to agency workers.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Changed: The ban is confirmed and guaranteed hours introduced, but there is a statutory duty on the government to consult on reference periods.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">New: Statutory consultation required before regulations can define temporary / seasonal needs and exemptions from guaranteed hours.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Regulation of umbrella companies &ndash; a new framework to ensure transparency and fair practice.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Day-one protection from unfair dismissal &ndash; applies from the start of employment, subject to probation rules.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Changed: day one protection removed &ndash; six month qualifying period applies universally, and the statutory cap on compensation has been removed.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Bereavement leave entitlement extended to all workers.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Flexible working to become a day-one right.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Gender pay gap and menopause action plans &ndash; introduced on a voluntary basis in April 2026, to become standard.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Defined standards for anti-harassment measures.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">New legal protections for pregnant workers.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Reforms to the industrial relations framework.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Updates to collective redundancy thresholds.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Blacklisting protections and enforcement.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">What&rsquo;s still under consultation?</h2>
Precise dates are not published, but the duty to consult is now statutory.
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Guaranteed hours consultation: expected during 2026, ahead of 2027 commencement.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Seasonal / temporary need definitions: consultation required before regulations are made.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Umbrella company framework and enforcement measures: consultation alongside tax enforcement measures.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Codes of Practice (fire and rehire, harassment): draft versions expected before October 2026.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What you can do now</h2>
With Royal Assent secured and the overall roadmap confirmed it&rsquo;s time to shift from monitoring change to actively preparing for implementation. There&rsquo;s still some key details to be confirmed, but here&rsquo;s what you can be doing now:
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Review your current employment policies and practices, both internally and across temporary labour usage, in preparation for upcoming reforms.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Assess workforce models, contracts, and HR processes in light of new and pending measures.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Engage with supply partners, especially umbrella companies and staffing providers, to ensure compliance.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Monitor secondary legislation and guidance as it&rsquo;s released (we can help with this one!).</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Let's navigate the change together</h2>
The Employment Rights Act represents the most significant update to UK employment law in a generation. While implementation is phased, clarity from Royal Assent allows businesses to start planning now. We&rsquo;re ready to help you understand the changes, review your policies, and prepare for compliance. Let us know if you&rsquo;d like support with:
<ul>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Sense checking your current employment contracts.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Preparing policy updates.</li>
<li style="color: #242c52;">Exploring what the new rules might mean for your recruitment strategy.</li>
</ul>
We&rsquo;re ready to help. Your operational success is our priority <a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://www.gap-technical.com/employers-get-in-touch/">&ndash; let&rsquo;s talk.</a>

Employment Rights Act – Royal Assent Update

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                Operating from one of our three regional branches across England, our consultants are on hand to offer tailored support and local knowledge for all your recruitment needs.
                

<h2>Benefits</h2>
So, the core values sound like a good fit for you &ndash; but what else is on offer?
<ul>
<li>25 days holidays plus bank holidays</li>
<li>An additional day off on your birthday</li>
<li>Industry-leading bonus scheme</li>
<li>Private medical and dental insurance (after qualifying period)</li>
<li>Cycle to work scheme</li>
<li>Annual company awards event</li>
<li>Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support when you need it</li>
<li>Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay</li>
<li>A paid charity day to support a cause that matters to you</li>
<li>Flexible bank holidays and lifestyle leave to better suit your schedule</li>
</ul>
What are you waiting for? We&rsquo;d love to hear from you.

join gap technical

As gap technical grows, so does our need for top talent.Happy employees stay in their job four times longer than unhappy employees on average – which makes sense, doesn’t it? We’re determined to build an engaged team, and that’s why we work so hard to build a working environment that’s a supportive, fun place to grow. And we know it works - in 2023 we received our 3-star accreditation by Best Companies to Work for, achieved through "outstanding" commitment to workplace engagement.We think that experience is great, but attitude is better. We’re always interested in talking to people who identify with our core values; innovative - Consultative, Accountable, Real and Ethical. Sound like you? Then check out our current vacancies. And if there’s nothing there that is a good match right now then please don’t hesitate to get in touch about future opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.

&nbsp;We think that experience is great, but attitude is better. We’re always interested in talking to people who identify with our core values; innovative - Consultative, Accountable, Real and Ethical. Sound like you? Then check out our current vacancies. And if there’s nothing there that is a good match right now then please don’t hesitate to get in touch about future opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.&nbsp;Join the gap family!

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Employers / News and insights

gap technical hubs Choose your region to find the contact details of your local gap technical branch or get in touch through our enquiry form below<h5> </h5>

Hello, and welcome to gap technical!How do we introduce you to all things gap technical without sounding like it’s all about us? It’s not - it’s about what we can do for you, but we understand why you might want to know a bit more about the kind of business we are when deciding if we’re the right fit for you.So if it’s a quick overview you’re looking for then we’ve made it easy – we’ve put it all in a video! Give us a minute or two and you’ll understand more about where it all began, and how we’ve expanded our team and specialisms to support your technical requirements.

This is our business mindset, constantly striving to redefine the standard of excellence in everything we do, always looking for opportunities for improvement across our core values.

The best interests of all of our people are at the heart of all we do; we’re not “yes” people, we want to offer our expertise, even if it means a difficult conversation.

We uphold a culture of responsibility, defining and agreeing expectations, and being held accountable against them.

We are not faceless; we’re people who work on a national basis across a range of sectors, all towards a common goal. Let’s have real conversations about needs and how we can help.

We offer peace of mind through ethical and compliant practices, for clients, candidates, and employees.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support drivers through their initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/employers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

Recruit staff let us help you fill your next role

<h5>Vision</h5>To become the first-choice recruitment partner by developing a brand that our customers, candidates, and employees are proud to be associated with.We want to be people’s first choice in an industry where there’s a lot of choice – it’s how our growth ambitions will be achieved.

<h5>Mission</h5>Through real people providing real solutions, our customers and candidates experience a true recruitment partnership. As a national provider with local presence, we are proud to deliver ethical and flexible employment solutions, accredited training, and people development.Yes, we’ve got bigger over the years, but that doesn’t mean we’ve lost that ‘local’ feel – we respect and nurture every relationship.

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Job description

If this role is permanent, gap technical is operating as the employment agency. If this job is a temporary role, gap technical is operating as the employment business. gap technical is committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future. By applying for the above position and providing your personal data to us you understand that your data will be processed in line with our <a href="/privacy-policies/">Privacy Policy</a>

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Let’s explain what our core values will mean to you

It’s right there in the job title, ‘Consultant’. We want to understand precisely what you’re looking for as you make your next career move; your expectations around a benefits package, preferred shifts and location, and the type of company culture that will be the right fit. Only by consulting with you can we find you that perfect match.

If we say we’ll do it, then we’ll do it. Got a query about a role or hiring company? If we don’t already know the answer we’ll find out and come straight back to you. Expecting feedback on your application or interview? We’ll agree a timeframe with you, and that’s exactly when you can expect to hear from us.

We want to get to know you so we can support you personally. We’re friendly (if we say so ourselves) and responsive, and that’s why we know we can build a real partnership with you. We get it, looking for a new job can be daunting. So, let’s have open and honest conversations at every stage of the process so we get it right first time.

We have lots of compliance processes in place to safeguard the welfare of our workers, but it’s more than that - we promise to always be totally transparent. You’ll know every detail of any placement on offer before you agree to it, and if it’s not for you there’ll be no pressure from us.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support you through your initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/job-seekers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

<h2>Want to know why people trust us to match them with their perfect role? It’s because we care.&nbsp;</h2>We’re ‘people’ people through and through, so you can be confident that you and your needs are the focus of your journey with us – it’s embedded in our core values.

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gap technical hubsChoose your region to find the contact details of your local gap technical branch or get in touch through our enquiry form below<h5> </h5>

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1 or 100, temp or perm – we’ve got a pricing solution to fit your needs.With access to circa 22 million candidates (yes – really!) through our industry leading technology and job board partnerships, our specialists will support you throughout the full recruitment lifecycle, all the while giving you peace of mind thanks to our aftercare service and perm placement refund schedule.We’ll build a solution around your specific resourcing requirements, and guarantee that all of our recruitment campaigns will offer:<h6> </h6>

Choose a team that cares about what you needHire the people you need for temporary, interim and permanent roles in engineering, science, trades, quality and IT. Fill out the form to tell our team your requirements and we'll be in touch within 24 hours.

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Employment Rights Act – Royal Assent Update