That is why we are proud to announce that Sterling Solutions Umbrella Limited, Sterling Solutions Rail Limited and Sterling CIS Limited have successfully achieved Workforce Assured accreditation.

This is a milestone we are incredibly proud of. It independently demonstrates our firm commitment to the highest standards of compliance for both employees and self-employed contractors, while strengthening our position as a trusted, compliant umbrella and self-employed solution for agencies and end clients alike.

In an increasingly regulated environment, confidence, transparency and reduced risk matter more than ever. Achieving Workforce Assured accreditation provides additional independent confirmation that our systems, controls and processes are robust, compliant and aligned with current legislative guidelines.

This is particularly important in light of the Joint and Several Liability changes, which came into force on 6 April 2026. HMRC’s new PAYE rules for labour supply chains that include umbrella companies place increased emphasis on supply chain transparency, lawful workforce practices and due diligence across the chain.

For us, this accreditation reflects the standards we have been working towards and the compliance-first approach that has always shaped our business.

What is Workforce Assured accreditation?

Workforce Assured describes its accreditation as a standard for temporary labour and employment practices for the built environment, designed to support legal compliance, governance and best practice across labour supply chains. It is intended to give businesses and their supply-chain partners greater confidence that the right systems, controls and processes are in place.

In simple terms, Workforce Assured accreditation provides independent recognition that a business has been assessed against a compliance-focused standard.

That matters because in today’s market, saying the right things is not enough. Agencies and clients want reassurance that the businesses they work with are backed by robust processes, clear governance and a genuine commitment to doing things properly.

For The Sterling Group, this is exactly why the accreditation matters. Compliance has never been an afterthought for us. It has always been built into the way we work, the way we support our partners and the standards we hold ourselves to every day.

Why Workforce Assured accreditation matters now

The timing matters.

HMRC’s guidance on the new rules for umbrella company supply chains makes it clear that from 6 April 2026, responsibility for unpaid PAYE can move up the labour supply chain in certain circumstances. Where the correct PAYE is not paid, HMRC may pursue the agency with the direct contract to the end client, or the end client where no agency is involved.

HMRC also says employment businesses should carry out regular, reasonable and proportionate due diligence on umbrella companies, including identifying entities in the labour supply chain, understanding how workers are engaged and paid, and assessing risks of non-compliance.

That means compliance is no longer something businesses can afford to keep at arm’s length.

For agencies and end clients, choosing the right supply-chain partners now carries even greater weight. Confidence needs to be earned. Standards need to be evidenced. And due diligence needs to stand up to scrutiny.

That is where Workforce Assured accreditation has real value. It provides additional independent assurance that the systems and controls behind a business have been reviewed and assessed against a recognised standard.

What Workforce Assured accreditation means for agencies

For agencies, Workforce Assured accreditation offers an extra layer of reassurance in an environment where compliance expectations are rising fast.

Agencies need partners they can trust. Partners who understand the regulatory landscape, take governance seriously and operate with strong internal controls. They also need to be able to show clients that they are working with businesses that support transparency and reduce supply-chain risk.

Independent accreditation helps support that position. It gives agencies added confidence that the provider they are working with has been assessed against a compliance-focused standard and is committed to lawful, transparent workforce practices.

In practical terms, that can help strengthen due diligence, support procurement conversations and provide greater confidence when selecting umbrella and self-employed solutions.

What Workforce Assured accreditation means for end clients

For end clients, Workforce Assured accreditation is another marker of trust, accountability and reduced risk.

Labour supply chains can be complex, and complexity creates exposure. As regulation tightens, end clients are placing greater focus on who sits within their supply chain and whether those businesses are operating in a lawful, transparent and well-governed way. HMRC’s 2025 policy paper on umbrella company reform explicitly framed the changes as a response to non-compliance in labour supply chains and an effort to encourage stronger due diligence.

An accredited provider offers added reassurance that compliance is not being left to assumption.

It shows that systems, controls and processes have been independently reviewed, helping end clients feel more confident in the partners supporting their workforce.

What Workforce Assured accreditation means for The Sterling Group

For The Sterling Group, this is a proud achievement and an important milestone.

It reflects the work that has gone on behind the scenes, the strength of the processes we have built and the standards we have continued to invest in. Workforce Assured accreditation is not about collecting a badge for the sake of it. It is about demonstrating, independently, what has always mattered to us as a business: compliance, accountability and doing things properly.

It also strengthens our position as a trusted compliance partner for agencies and end clients across the supply chain.

We understand that trust is earned through consistency. Through transparency. Through strong governance and a genuine commitment to lawful workforce practices. This accreditation reinforces that commitment and gives our partners even greater confidence in the way we operate.

A milestone worth celebrating

We are proud to have achieved Workforce Assured accreditation, and proud of what it represents.

This is a milestone for Sterling Solutions Umbrella Limited, Sterling Solutions Rail Limited and Sterling CIS Limited, but it is also part of a much bigger picture. It reflects the standards we have been working towards, the compliance-first culture we have built, and the responsibility we know comes with supporting agencies, end clients and contractors in a changing regulatory environment.

As the market continues to evolve, our focus will remain the same: strong governance, robust systems and compliant workforce solutions that give our partners confidence.

Because for us, compliance is not just part of the job.

It is part of who we are.

Get in touch

If you have any queries or would like to speak to a member of our team, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 01925 626200.

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In this blog, we cover what JSL means in plain English, who is affected, what it looks like in practice, and the sensible steps you  must take now.

What is Joint and Several Liability (JSL)?
The JSL changes mean that umbrella companies, recruitment agencies and end clients in a contractual supply chain can be held jointly  or individually responsible for unpaid tax liabilities for the workers.

In the umbrella company sector, the intention is to reduce non-compliance by making other parties in the labour supply chain  responsible for PAYE tax  shortfalls,  where an umbrella company fails to account and make payment  for PAYE correctly.

Who does this affect?
Recruitment agencies and  end clients If you supply workers to end clients, and umbrella companies exist within your supply chain, JSL becomes a meaningful commercial risk.

If you engage umbrella arrangements directly, or there is no agency between you and the umbrella company model, liability may sit with the end client. 

Contractors working through umbrellas
Expect tighter onboarding, more robust checks, and in some cases changes to preferred suppliers as businesses protect their supply chains. The upside is that the wider aim is to reduce harm caused by non-compliant operators and improve worker outcomes.

What does this look like in practice?
This is where it moves from a legislative change to day-to-day reality.

JSL increases the cost of getting supplier choices wrong. If PAYE is miscalculated or underpaid in a labour supply chain and HMRC identifies a shortfall, the agency, or end client in certain scenarios, may be the recovery target.

That means the questions being asked in 2026 will get sharper, such as:

• Are you confident your supply chain partners are operating PAYE correctly?
  • Can you evidence how workers are paid, and what is deducted?
  • Do your contracts, processes, and onboarding checks stand up to scrutiny?
  • If you had to defend your supplier choices tomorrow, could you?

What should you do now? 

Review your current umbrella supply chain, ensure your PSL contains financially stable umbrellas that are FCSA accredited.

1.  Tighten your due diligence
   Move beyond surface-level checks. Ask for evidence and keep a record of what you review and when. Insist on third party independent checks like Veripaye to ensure all payment calculations are correct.  Insist on proof that tax liabilities have been paid to HMRC.

2. Standardise onboarding and documentation
   Ensure Key Information Documents, pay illustrations, worker documentation and audit trails are consistent and accessible.

3. Educate internal teams
   Consultants and account managers should understand what JSL is and why “cheapest” can quickly turn into “most expensive”.

4. Sense-check your model before April
   If you want clarity on how exposed your current process is, now is the time to review it while you can still make changes.

How The Sterling Group can support you
Sterling has been trading for 26 years, and is owner managed by the original founders, giving stability in this ever changing sector.  

Sterling is an FCSA accredited umbrella,  we also work in partnership with veriPAYE who independently verify every payment made by Sterling to give clients confidence that all payments and tax workings  have been correctly calculated.  This illustrates our commitment to raising standards and strengthening confidence in compliant payroll processes.

We have strong relationships with our agency partners many of which  span over 20 years, this is because we have built the business on strong values, always focusing on providing great customer service and ensuring  compliance is at the foundation of everything we do.  

We support agencies, end clients and contractors with a transparent, well-run payroll process built around clear documentation, consistent onboarding, and a customer service team that is easy to reach when you need answers.

Final thought
JSL is a line-in-the-sand moment for the market. It rewards organisations that already do things properly and forces everyone else to get serious.

If you would like to talk through what this change could mean for your business, we are here to help.

Call: 01925 626200
Email: info@thesterlinggroup.co.uk
Website: https://www.thesterlinggroup.co.uk/

Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, seek appropriate professional advice.

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As the financial year draws to a close, businesses and contractors who run their own limited company face the critical task of wrapping up their accounts, ensuring compliance, and setting the stage for a successful year ahead. The Sterling Group, with decades of expertise in supporting agencies and contractors, is here to guide you through every step. Here are five essential tips to help you close your financial year with confidence:

1. Submit Final Invoices Promptly

   Ensure that all outstanding invoices are sent out well before your financial year-end. This helps you maintain positive cash flow and avoid any last-minute surprises. If you’re a contractor, check with your clients to confirm that all work has been signed off and payment terms are clear.

2. Review Your Tax Deductions

   Now’s the time to maximise your deductions! Go through your expenses meticulously and ensure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to — from travel costs to home office expenses. 

3. Reconcile Accounts and Chase Payments

   A thorough account reconciliation is key to spotting discrepancies and ensuring your financial records are accurate. Follow up on any overdue payments and resolve outstanding issues to start the new financial year on solid footing.

4. Plan for Tax Payments

   Understand your upcoming tax liabilities and set aside the appropriate funds. Whether it’s Corporation Tax, VAT, or self-assessment payments, knowing what’s due and when prevents unwelcome surprises. Our expert team can provide guidance on efficient tax planning and cash flow management.

5. Set Financial Goals for the New Yea

   r A new financial year is a fresh start! Take the opportunity to set realistic and ambitious financial goals. Whether it’s increasing your turnover, expanding your client base, or improving your savings strategy, having a clear plan in place will keep you focused and motivated.

Closing your financial year doesn’t have to be stressful. With The Sterling Group by your side, you can navigate the complexities of year-end accounting,  and step into the new financial year with confidence and clarity.

Ready to make this your most successful financial year yet? Get in touch with The Sterling Group today and let’s make it happen!

Call today or drop us an email here

The post 5 Tips to Close Your Financial Year with Confidence! appeared first on Sterling Group Umbrella Company.

A Fresh Perspective on Health Services

The Government has outlined an impressive £22.6 billion increase in day-to-day health budgets for the NHS and a further £1 billion boost to the capital budget over the next year. If you’re in construction or the health sector, the £1 billion health capital investment to address the backlog of NHS repairs and upgrades presents significant opportunities.

A Boost for Workers

The government has announced a 6.7% increase in the national living wage to £12.21 per hour. There will also be a phased increase in the national minimum wage for 18-20-year-olds to £10 per hour. For agencies and contractors, this change will need to be factored into payroll calculations.

Changes to National Insurance

To repair the public finances and help raise the revenue required to increase funding for public services, the government is taking the difficult decision to increase the rate of employer NICs by 1.2 percentage points to 15%. The per-employee threshold at which employers start to pay National Insurance will be reduced from £9,100 per year to £5,000 per year. These changes will apply from 6 April 2025.

An Update on Capital Gains Tax

The lower and higher rates of Capital Gains Tax are set to increase, from 10% to 18% and 20% to 24% respectively. Contractors should be aware of these changes, as they may impact financial planning strategies going forward.

Infrastructure Projects on the Horizon

Noteworthy for the construction sector is the allocation of funds towards transport projects, including TransPennine upgrades, east-west rail, and road network improvements. The HS2 project represents a significant investment and opportunity for businesses in the sector.

In conclusion, these changes present both challenges and opportunities for our agencies and contractors. The Sterling Group will continue to help navigate these changes and provide necessary support to ensure your business thrives in the evolving landscape.

Full details on the Budget can be found here

Stay tuned for our next blog post!

The post UK Financial Updates for Agencies & Contractors: Key Budget Changes, Wage Increases, and New Opportunities in Health and Infrastructure appeared first on Sterling Group Umbrella Company.

Introduction

The 2024 General Election is on the horizon, and it promises to be a pivotal moment for the UK. With policy changes and potential shifts in government, the landscape for contractors could see significant transformations. 

The Impact of Policy Changes on proposed manifesto’s

Some areas from the conservative manifesto:

• A further 2p tax cut off employee National Insurance, meaning it will have halved from 12% at the beginning of this year to 6% by April 2027 – a total tax cut of £1,350 for the average worker on £35,000. 
• No raise to the rate on income tax or VAT. 
• Tax cut to support the self-employed by abolishing the main rate of self-employed National Insurance entirely by the end of Parliament. 
• Pledge to fund more apprenticeships for young people .

Some areas from the Labour manifesto

• Kickstart economic growth to secure the highest sustained growth in the G7, through tougher spending rules, a National Wealth Fund to invest in jobs, and planning reform to build 1.5 million new homes. 
• Cap the corporation tax at the current level of 25% for the entire parliament
• Ensure the minimum wage is a genuine living wage.
• Reform the apprenticeship levy and replace it with a flexible growth and skills levy.

Economic Policies

Economic stability is crucial for contractors who rely on a steady flow of projects. The Conservative Party promises to maintain low taxes and high economic growth, potentially boosting demand for contract work. Labour, however, focuses on rebuilding national infrastructure and increasing public spending, which could create more opportunities for contractors in sectors like construction, healthcare, and education.

Strategies for Adapting

Stay Informed

Knowledge is power. Keep yourself updated on the manifestos of both major parties and any policy changes they propose. Regularly check sources like the official government websites for updates on deadlines and new regulations.

Diversify Your Skill Set

In uncertain times, diversification is key. Expanding your skill set can make you more marketable and open up new opportunities. Look into taking courses or obtaining certifications in areas that are likely to see growth within your industry.

Looking Ahead

Long-Term Implications

The long-term implications of the general election on the contracting industry could be far-reaching. If the Conservative Party wins, we might see continued deregulation and economic growth, benefiting contractors. However, a Labour victory could mean increased public spending and more projects available. 

Future-Proofing Your Career

To stay ahead of future shifts, focus on future-proofing your career. Keep an eye on emerging trends and technologies in your industry. For example, AI and machine learning are becoming increasingly important across pretty much all sectors. By staying ahead of the curve, you can ensure that your skills remain relevant.

Building a Network

A strong professional network can provide support and opportunities during times of change. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with peers on platforms like LinkedIn. Building a robust network can help you stay informed about industry trends and potential job opportunities.

Conclusion

The 2024 General Election holds significant implications for independent contractors and contracting agencies. By staying informed about policy changes, reassessing your financial planning, diversifying your skill set, and building a strong professional network, you can navigate the uncertainties ahead and continue to thrive in your career.

It is worth noting that all of the details won’t be available to us until after July 4th. 

For more information on all things The Sterling Group get in touch with us today.

Customer liaison:
01925 626 200

Contractor joining team:
01925 626 286

Agency account management:
01925 626 285

Email: info@thesterlinggroup.co.uk

The post What the General Election Means for Contractors and How to Adapt appeared first on Sterling Group Umbrella Company.

VAT Registration Increase:

. The VAT registration threshold has been a topic of significant discussion, and the Spring Budget 2024 comes with a tangible change – raising the threshold from £85,000 to £90,000. This seemingly small alteration carries substantial weight, lightening the tax burden for emerging and small enterprises across the United Kingdom. This threshold change is more than just a number shift; it signifies a policy geared towards reducing financial strain and supporting the organic growth of small businesses. The move is expected to encourage more start-ups, and provide breathing space for those looking to expand.

National Insurance Cuts:

For the hardworking citizens of the UK, the Spring Budget 2024 brings a bouquet of tax relief, particularly on National Insurance Contributions (NICs). Employees will witness a cut from 10% to 8% in their NICs. starting April 6, 2024. Self-employed individuals are not left behind, benefiting from a reduction of the main NICs rate from 9% to 6%.. These reductions will reward effort, easing the financial load on the workforce.

Fairness and Efficiency in Tax Systems:

The Spring Budget 2024 is not just about reducing taxes and promoting investments; it is equally focused on tax system reforms that aim to achieve fairness and efficiency.   The further reduction in employees NICS may indicate a step to eliminating this altogether, so there could  just be income tax for individuals, meaning all income will be treated the same.

It is good to see the announcement in paragraph 5.42 of the main budget that the government is set to review the non-compliance in the umbrella market.  Government will provide an update on the recent consultation in this area in the spring and provide new guidelines to workers and clients in the summer.  This will help to ensure a level playing field for the industry.

The Path Ahead:

The Spring Budget 2024 sets the stage for a recalibration of the UK’s financial roadmap. With an emphasis on stimulating  business growth, rewarding work with reduced NICs,  strategic pension fund investments, and improving public services.

 The government is continuing to support motorists and industry by maintaining rates of fuel duty at the current levels for a further 12 months, through extending the temporary 5p fuel duty cut and cancelling the planned inflation-linked increase for 2024-25. This support is being maintained at a time where many other European countries have ended their fuel duty cuts. This will not only help motorists but will assist the government in bringing down inflation. 

The government is making positive steps in spending funds to improve the processes and procedures in many public sector bodies, which is a good move to maximise the benefit of any future investment in this area.  It is vital to improve the efficiency of the public sector by incorporating modern technology as the plan will provide a better service to the whole  country. 

Financial professionals,  business owners, and contractors must adapt to these changes, incorporating them into their financial planning and business strategies. Staying informed and seeking professional advice will be key in navigating the complexities of the latest budget. As the details continue to unfold, being proactive about understanding and utilising the opportunities presented by the Spring Budget 2024 will be crucial in ensuring long-term financial well-being.

If you have questions or need further assistance in understanding the Spring Budget 2024, the Sterling Group is here to help. 

The post Maximising Your Finances Post Spring Budget 2024: A Comprehensive Analysis appeared first on Sterling Group Umbrella Company.

Here are the key highlights that could affect you from the Autumn Statement:

National Wage increases:

The Treasury has announced that the National Living Wage will see a significant increase of over £1 per hour starting from April 2024. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt stated that the pay threshold will rise from £10.42 to £11.44 per hour, marking the largest increase in over a decade. Furthermore, this increase will also apply to 21-year-olds, resulting in an overall annual pay rise of £1,800 for full-time employees. Additionally, the government has declared that the national minimum wage for 18 to 20-year-olds will rise by £1.11 to £8.60 per hour. Moreover, apprentices will experience a boost in their minimum hourly rates, with 18-year-olds witnessing a pay increase of over 20%, elevating their minimum hourly wage from £5.28 to £6.40.

National Insurance changes for the employed and self-employed

The UK’s Autumn Statement 2023 brings several tax changes that have implications for self-employed people, business owners, and entrepreneurs. Firstly, the main rate of National Insurance will be cut from 12% to 10% from 6 January, which will benefit 27 million people. Secondly, starting from April, self-employed individuals earning over £12,570 will no longer have to pay Class 2 National Insurance. Thirdly, Class 4 National Insurance for self-employed people, which is paid on profits between £12,570 and £50,270, will be reduced from 9% to 8% from April onwards. Overall, these changes are expected to provide relief to self-employed individuals and enable them to invest more in their businesses.

With the exception of the previously mentioned changes to income tax & the National Living Wage, the Autumn Statement has outlined various financial and economic changes that will affect millions of people’s budgets and public services. 

The statement has revealed several key points, including a 6.7% increase in universal credit and working-age benefits in England and Wales from April, as well as an increase of Local Housing Allowance rates to 30% of local rents. 

Furthermore, the Work Capability Assessment will be reformed to better reflect the availability of home working after the Covid pandemic, with a particular focus on funding schemes for people with health conditions and those unemployed for over a year. Claimants in England and Wales who refuse to seek employment will lose access to their benefits and free prescriptions. 

The state pension payments will also increase by 8.5% from April, in line with the average earnings. Savers will soon have the right to choose their pension scheme to allow them one pension pot for life after further consultation. 

We will continue to update this blog with any further information as it becomes available. For further information on how this might affect you please get in touch with your Sterling Group representative. Call 01925 626200 or email them at info@thesterlinggroup.co.uk.

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