Workforce Assured Accreditation: Why Agencies Need Evidence of ComplianceEvery payroll provider can say it takes compliance seriously. The more important question is whether it can prove it.

For recruitment agencies, supplier compliance is no longer something that can be assessed through reassuring conversations, polished policies or a logo on a website. Agencies need evidence that the businesses within their labour supply chains have the right systems, controls and governance in place.

This matters even more following the introduction of new PAYE rules for labour supply chains involving umbrella companies. From 6 April 2026, an agency with the direct contract to supply a worker to an end client can be held responsible where the correct PAYE has not been paid by an umbrella company.

Due diligence must therefore go further than taking a provider’s claims at face value.

Workforce Assured accreditation supports this shift towards evidence-led compliance. It provides independent recognition that a provider has been assessed against a standard designed around temporary labour and employment practices.

For agencies choosing payroll partners, that independent assessment can provide something increasingly valuable: confidence supported by evidence.

Why compliance claims are no longer enough

Most payroll and workforce providers use similar language.

They talk about trust, transparency, accurate payroll and robust compliance. Those principles matter, but the words alone reveal very little about how the provider operates behind the scenes.

A provider may have policies in place, but are those policies followed consistently? Are its systems subject to proper oversight? Can it demonstrate how workers are engaged and paid? Would its records and processes stand up to external scrutiny?

These are the questions agencies now need to ask.

HMRC advises employment businesses to carry out due diligence before using an umbrella company. Its guidance recommends identifying every business within the labour supply chain, understanding how workers are engaged and checking that PAYE is being operated correctly.

The new PAYE rules have increased the commercial importance of these checks. Where an umbrella company fails to account for the correct PAYE, HMRC can recover the amount from the responsible agency or, where no agency is involved, the end client.

Compliance claims may begin the conversation, but they cannot finish it.

Agencies need evidence that supports the promises being made.

What is Workforce Assured accreditation?

Workforce Assured is an accreditation focused on temporary labour and employment practices within the built environment.

It is designed to support legal compliance, good governance and better employment practices across labour supply chains. The accreditation provides independent recognition that a business has been assessed against a compliance-focused standard.

Workforce Assured was launched with support from leading UK construction contractors to raise standards around how companies recruit, engage and pay their workforces.

This makes the accreditation particularly relevant to recruitment agencies, contractors, payroll intermediaries and end clients operating within construction and related sectors.

Rather than relying entirely on a provider’s own description of its standards, agencies can see that an independent organisation has examined the business against defined expectations.

Accreditation does not remove the need for an agency’s own supplier checks. It should instead form part of a broader due diligence process, providing another meaningful source of evidence.

How Workforce Assured supports evidence-led due diligence

Strong due diligence is not a single form completed when a new provider joins a Preferred Supplier List.

It is an ongoing process of understanding who is within the labour supply chain, how each organisation operates and whether the appropriate controls remain in place.

Workforce Assured accreditation can strengthen this process in several ways.

Independent assessment

Self-assessment has limitations. A provider reviewing its own standards may have good intentions, but it cannot offer the same objectivity as an external assessment.

Independent accreditation introduces another level of scrutiny. It demonstrates that the provider has been prepared to open its processes to review rather than asking agencies simply to accept its assurances.

Defined standards

Vague commitments are difficult to measure.

An accreditation framework provides defined expectations against which a provider can be assessed. This helps move supplier conversations away from broad promises and towards systems, controls and evidence.

Stronger procurement decisions

When agencies compare potential payroll providers, price and speed should not be the only deciding factors.

Accreditation can help procurement and compliance teams identify providers that have made a demonstrable investment in responsible employment practices and supply chain governance.

Better client conversations

Agencies are increasingly expected to explain how they select and oversee their payroll partners.

Being able to reference independent accreditation can support discussions with end clients, particularly where those clients have strict procurement, governance or labour compliance requirements.

It gives the agency more than a verbal assurance to pass along the supply chain.

Why evidence matters under the PAYE rules introduced in April 2026

The PAYE rules for labour supply chains involving umbrella companies changed on 6 April 2026.

Where workers are supplied through an umbrella company, the agency holding the contract with the end client is responsible for making sure PAYE is operated correctly. If HMRC finds that the umbrella company has not paid the correct PAYE, it can recover the unpaid amount from that agency.

Where there is no recruitment agency in the supply chain, that responsibility sits with the end client.

The umbrella company remains responsible for calculating PAYE correctly and paying HMRC. However, the consequences of a failure can now travel further through the supply chain.

This makes supplier selection a financial and commercial risk decision, not simply an administrative one.

Agencies need to know:

• Who is employing and paying each worker
• Whether additional businesses appear within the payment chain
• How PAYE calculations and payments are controlled
• What information the provider will supply for verification
• Whether processes are documented and consistently followed
• What independent evidence supports the provider’s claims

Workforce Assured accreditation cannot replace these checks. No single accreditation should be treated as a shortcut around proper due diligence.

It can, however, contribute useful independent evidence that a provider takes governance, compliance and responsible workforce practices seriously.

What should agencies ask their payroll providers?

A credible provider should be comfortable answering detailed questions.

Agencies reviewing an existing supplier or considering a new payroll partner should ask for practical evidence, not simply a standard sales presentation.

Useful questions include:

• Which legal entity will employ or engage the worker?
• Will any other businesses be involved in the payment chain?
• How does the provider calculate and report PAYE?
• What controls are used to identify payroll errors?
• How are compliance responsibilities assigned internally?
• How often are policies and procedures reviewed?
• What documents can the provider supply to support agency checks?
• Has the business been independently assessed or accredited?
• What happens when an issue or discrepancy is identified?
• How will the provider support ongoing monitoring?

The quality of the response matters as much as the answer itself.

Clear documentation, transparent processes and a willingness to provide evidence indicate a very different compliance culture from vague assurances or defensive answers.

A reliable partner should make due diligence easier, not treat it as an inconvenience.

Accreditation should support due diligence, not replace it

Independent accreditation is valuable, but agencies should avoid treating any badge as a complete compliance strategy.

A strong approach combines several layers of scrutiny.

This may include:

• Verifying company and legal entity details
• Mapping the complete labour supply chain
• Reviewing contracts and employment documentation
• Checking relevant insurance
• Examining sample payroll records and payslips
• Understanding how tax and National Insurance are handled
• Confirming how workers receive support
• Reviewing independent accreditations
• Repeating checks at suitable intervals
• Recording findings and actions clearly

This distinction is important.

Evidence-led due diligence does not mean collecting certificates and storing them in a folder. It means understanding what those certificates represent, combining them with direct checks and continuing to monitor the relationship.

Workforce Assured accreditation is most useful when it forms part of that wider process.

What Sterling’s Workforce Assured accreditation demonstrates

Sterling Solutions Umbrella Limited, Sterling Solutions Rail Limited and Sterling CIS Limited have achieved Workforce Assured accreditation.

For The Sterling Group, this is not simply a marketing statement. It provides independent recognition of the systems, controls and standards that sit behind our services.

It demonstrates our willingness to have those standards examined rather than asking agencies and clients to rely solely on what we say about ourselves.

That distinction matters.

Recruitment agencies need payroll partners that understand the pressure they face. They must protect workers, meet client expectations, maintain clear records and manage an increasingly complex compliance environment.

Our Workforce Assured accreditation supports the evidence agencies need when assessing their supply chain. It sits alongside our commitment to clear communication, accountable processes and doing things properly at every stage of the contractor journey.

The commercial value of choosing partners that can provide evidence

Compliance failures rarely remain confined to the payroll department.

They can lead to financial exposure, disrupted contractor relationships, difficult client conversations and damage to an agency’s reputation.

The reverse is also true.

A well-managed and transparent payroll partnership can support:

• Stronger contractor confidence
• More effective client procurement conversations
• Clearer audit trails
• Fewer surprises within the supply chain
• Better-informed supplier decisions
• Greater confidence when reviewing a PSL

Evidence gives agencies a firmer foundation for those decisions.

It helps compliance teams demonstrate why a provider was selected. It allows account teams to answer client questions more confidently. It also shows contractors that the businesses responsible for their employment and pay have been chosen carefully.

That is why independently assessed standards matter commercially, not only operationally.

Frequently asked questions

What does Workforce Assured accreditation mean?

Workforce Assured accreditation provides independent recognition that an organisation has been assessed against a standard focused on temporary labour and employment practices. It is intended to support legal compliance, governance and better practices within labour supply chains.

Does Workforce Assured accreditation replace agency due diligence?

No. Agencies should continue to carry out their own checks on umbrella companies and other labour supply chain partners. Accreditation can provide valuable supporting evidence, but it should form part of a wider, ongoing due diligence process.

Why is Workforce Assured relevant to recruitment agencies?

Recruitment agencies need to understand how workers are engaged and paid throughout their supply chains. Workforce Assured accreditation gives agencies additional independent evidence when assessing the standards, governance and compliance approach of a potential partner.

Can an agency be liable for unpaid PAYE?

Under the rules in force from 6 April 2026, the agency with the direct contract to supply a worker to the end client is responsible for making sure the umbrella company operates PAYE correctly. HMRC can recover unpaid PAYE from that agency where the umbrella company has failed to pay the correct amount.

Which Sterling companies are Workforce Assured accredited?

Sterling Solutions Umbrella Limited, Sterling Solutions Rail Limited and Sterling CIS Limited have achieved Workforce Assured accreditation.

Choose compliance that can be evidenced

Agencies should not have to choose payroll partners based on promises alone.

In a market where responsibility is increasing and supplier decisions can carry significant financial and reputational consequences, evidence matters.

Workforce Assured accreditation gives agencies another independent source of confidence when assessing payroll and workforce providers. It shows that compliance standards have been opened to scrutiny and assessed against defined expectations.

It is not a replacement for robust due diligence. It is evidence that can make that due diligence stronger.

The Sterling Group is proud to be Workforce Assured accredited and to give agencies greater confidence in the processes behind our umbrella, rail and CIS services.

To discuss your current payroll arrangements, review your Preferred Supplier List or learn more about our Workforce Assured accreditation, contact The Sterling Group.

A preferred supplier list should do more than organise approved providers. For recruitment agencies, it should reduce risk, protect contractor experience, support compliance, and give internal teams confidence in the partners they are recommending.

The problem is that too many PSLs are built around habit. Familiar names. Historic relationships. Providers that have “always been there”. That may feel convenient, but convenience is not the same as control.

In a market where payroll compliance, transparency, and contractor expectations are under increasing scrutiny, agencies need more than a list of umbrella companies. They need evidence that those suppliers are operating properly, communicating clearly, and supporting workers in a way that reflects well on the agency.

That is where a proof-led approach matters.

Table of Contents

What is a preferred supplier list?
Why PSLs matter more than ever for recruitment agencies
The problem with a PSL that only looks compliant
What agencies should look for in a PSL partner
Where Workforce Assured status strengthens agency confidence
How veriPAYE adds transparency to the payroll process
Why contractor experience belongs in every PSL decision
Building a PSL that protects your agency and your contractors
FAQs

What is a preferred supplier list?

A preferred supplier list, often shortened to PSL, is a list of approved suppliers that an agency recommends or allows contractors to use.

In recruitment, this often includes umbrella payroll providers, outsourced PAYE providers, compliance partners, and other businesses involved in supporting contractors. The purpose is simple: to give the agency and its contractors a controlled, reliable group of suppliers to work with.

A strong preferred supplier list helps agencies:

• Choose partners that meet clear standards
• Reduce compliance and reputational risk
•  Improve consistency across contractor onboarding
• Give contractors clearer choices
• Create a more reliable process for internal teams

The issue is not whether agencies should have a PSL. Most should. The real question is whether that PSL is actively protecting the business or simply sitting there as an admin document.

A good PSL should be reviewed, challenged, and strengthened over time. It should reflect current risk, current legislation, current contractor expectations, and current standards across the umbrella payroll market.

If it does not, it can create a false sense of security.

Why PSLs matter more than ever for recruitment agencies

Recruitment agencies operate in a supply chain where decisions do not stay isolated. The umbrella company a contractor uses can affect payroll accuracy, tax compliance, onboarding speed, worker confidence, and the agency’s reputation.

When payroll goes wrong, contractors rarely see it as “just a supplier issue”. They often associate the experience with the agency that introduced or approved the provider.

That is why PSL decisions matter.

A weak PSL can lead to:

• Confused contractors
• Slow onboarding
• Unclear deductions
• Payment queries
• Compliance concerns
• Reputational damage
• More pressure on recruitment consultants and support teams

A strong PSL does the opposite. It gives agencies a clearer framework for who they work with, why they work with them, and what standards those suppliers must maintain.

This is especially important as expectations around umbrella payroll continue to rise. Agencies are being asked to show stronger due diligence, clearer processes, and better supply chain awareness. Contractors also expect more transparency around their pay, deductions, holiday pay, and employment rights.

A PSL should sit at the centre of that control.

Not as a tick-box exercise. As a working part of the agency’s risk and contractor experience strategy.

The problem with a PSL that only looks compliant

Some PSLs look organised on the surface. There may be a list of supplier names, a few approval dates, and some historic checks in a folder somewhere.

But looking compliant is not the same as being protected.

The real value of a preferred supplier list comes from the quality of the checks behind it and the standards suppliers continue to meet after they are approved.

An agency should be asking:

1. When was each supplier last reviewed?
2. What evidence supports their approval?
3. How do they handle contractor queries?
4. What systems support payroll transparency?
5. Can they evidence compliance, not just claim it?
6. Do contractors receive clear explanations of deductions?
7. Are onboarding and support processes consistent?
8. Does the supplier strengthen or weaken the agency’s reputation?

The risk with a passive PSL is that it can become outdated quickly. A supplier that looked suitable two years ago may no longer meet the standards the agency needs today.

That is why agencies should avoid building PSLs around assumptions. “We have used them for years” is not enough. “They are well known” is not enough. “No one has complained loudly yet” is definitely not enough.

A PSL should be built on evidence, not comfort.

What agencies should look for in a PSL partner

When reviewing an umbrella payroll provider for a preferred supplier list, agencies should look beyond basic service claims.

Every supplier can say they are compliant. Every supplier can say they care about contractors. The difference is whether they can demonstrate it in the way they operate.

A strong PSL partner should be able to show:

• Clear compliance processes
• Transparent payroll information
• Reliable communication
• Accessible contractor support
• Fast, consistent onboarding
• Documented procedures
• Strong industry credentials
• Technology that improves visibility
• A service model that reduces admin rather than adding to it

This is where the conversation needs to move from “Can this provider process payroll?” to “Can this provider protect our agency and support our contractors properly?”

For agencies, a supplier is not just a back-office choice. It becomes part of the contractor journey. If the supplier is difficult to reach, slow to respond, vague about deductions, or inconsistent with documentation, that friction often lands back with the agency.

The best PSL partners make life easier for everyone involved. They help consultants focus on placements, give contractors confidence in their pay, and give leadership teams a stronger grip on compliance and reputation.

Sterling’s approach is built around that kind of partnership. It combines compliant payroll, UK-based support, in-house technology, contractor-first service, and visibility through veriPAYE.

Where Workforce Assured status strengthens agency confidence

Workforce Assured status adds an important layer to the PSL conversation because it gives agencies another proof point when reviewing supplier standards.

For agencies, external recognition and independent assurance matter. They help move the discussion away from vague supplier promises and towards evidence that a provider has been assessed against meaningful expectations.

That matters because PSL decisions need to stand up to scrutiny.

When an agency chooses an umbrella payroll partner, it is trusting that provider with contractor pay, employment processes, communication, and compliance-sensitive information. If something goes wrong, the impact can travel quickly across the contractor relationship and the agency’s brand.

Workforce Assured status supports agency confidence because it shows a commitment to high standards, responsible processes, and ongoing accountability.

It should not be the only factor in a PSL decision, but it should form part of the wider evidence picture. Alongside credentials such as FCSA approval, strong service performance, proven contractor support, and transparent technology, it helps agencies make better informed choices.

The message is simple: a PSL should not depend on trust alone.

Trust is important, but it is stronger when it is backed by proof.

How veriPAYE adds transparency to the payroll process

Payroll transparency is one of the most important parts of a strong PSL.

Contractors want to understand what they are being paid, what deductions have been made, and why those deductions appear on their payslip. Agencies want confidence that payroll is being handled properly, with the right checks and visibility behind the process.

That is why Sterling’s partnership with veriPAYE fits naturally into a proof-led PSL strategy.

veriPAYE supports greater transparency by helping agencies and contractors gain clearer visibility across payroll information and compliance processes. It strengthens confidence because it gives people more than verbal reassurance. It supports the idea that payroll should be clear, traceable, and easier to understand.

For agencies, that can reduce uncertainty. For contractors, it can reduce confusion. For both, it helps create a smoother working relationship.

The important point is that technology should never replace service. It should support it.

At Sterling, veriPAYE sits alongside a UK-based support team, contractor-focused systems, and a service model built around clarity, confidence, and consistency. That combination matters because payroll is not just data. It is people’s income, people’s questions, and people’s trust.

When used properly, technology gives structure to that trust.

Why contractor experience belongs in every PSL decision

A PSL is often discussed as a compliance tool, but it is also a contractor experience tool.

That matters because contractors judge agencies by the full journey, not just the role they are placed into. If onboarding is clunky, payroll is confusing, or support is hard to reach, the overall experience suffers.

Even if the issue sits with an umbrella provider, the contractor may still connect that frustration to the agency.

That is why contractor experience should be part of every PSL review.

The best PSL partners understand that their role is not just to process payments. It is to support confidence.

For contractors, that means knowing what is happening with their pay and having someone to speak to when questions come up. For agencies, it means fewer escalations, fewer repeated queries, and stronger trust across the contractor relationship.

This is where Sterling’s service-led approach is important. With UK-based support, a contractor app, continuity of employment support, and in-house technology built around contractor needs, the aim is to make the experience clearer and more reliable from the start.

A strong PSL should not just protect the agency from risk. It should help contractors feel properly supported.

Building a PSL that protects your agency and your contractors

The strongest preferred supplier lists are built with intention.

They are not just lists of names. They are frameworks for better decision-making.

A modern PSL should help agencies answer three important questions:

Are our suppliers compliant and able to evidence their standards?
Do our suppliers give contractors a clear, reliable experience?
Can our team confidently explain why these providers are approved?

If the answer to any of those questions is uncertain, it may be time to review the list.

A proof-led PSL should bring together compliance, transparency, service, and accountability. It should include partners who can show how they work, explain their processes clearly, and support both the agency and the contractor when it matters.

Sterling brings together several key proof points for agencies reviewing their PSL:

• 27 years of industry experience
• FCSA approval
• Workforce Assured status
• veriPAYE partnership
• UK-based support
• In-house technology
• Contractor app support
• Continuity of employment support
• A service-led approach built around clarity, confidence, and consistency

For agencies, this means more than adding another name to a supplier list. It means choosing a partner that understands the commercial importance of payroll, the pressure on recruitment teams, and the expectations contractors now have.

A PSL should make your agency stronger.

It should reduce uncertainty, improve contractor trust, and give your team confidence that the providers you recommend are doing things properly.

That is the standard worth building around.

FAQs

What is a preferred supplier list in recruitment?

A preferred supplier list is a group of approved suppliers that an agency works with or recommends to contractors. In recruitment, this often includes umbrella payroll providers. The aim is to create a controlled list of trusted partners who meet the agency’s standards for compliance, service, communication, and contractor support.

Why do recruitment agencies use PSLs?

Recruitment agencies use PSLs to reduce risk, improve consistency, and give contractors access to approved providers. A strong PSL helps agencies manage supplier quality, support compliance, and protect their reputation. It also makes it easier for internal teams to recommend providers with confidence.

What should agencies check before adding an umbrella company to a PSL?

Agencies should check compliance credentials, service standards, payroll transparency, onboarding processes, contractor support, and evidence of ongoing performance. Approval should not be based on claims alone. A good umbrella provider should be able to show how they operate and how they protect both contractors and agencies.

How does payroll transparency support PSL compliance?

Payroll transparency helps agencies and contractors understand how pay is calculated, what deductions are made, and where information can be evidenced. This reduces confusion and supports stronger confidence in the process. Tools such as veriPAYE can help provide greater visibility and assurance across payroll activity.

Can contractors request to use Sterling if an agency has a PSL?

In many cases, contractors can ask their agency whether Sterling can be used or added as an approved provider. Agencies reviewing their PSL can speak to Sterling about compliant payroll, contractor support, continuity of employment, veriPAYE-backed visibility, and how Sterling can support a stronger supplier framework.

Review your PSL with confidence

Your preferred supplier list should do more than sit in a folder.

It should protect your agency, support your contractors, and give your team confidence that the partners you work with are clear, compliant, and reliable.

If you are reviewing your PSL, The Sterling Group can help you build confidence through compliant payroll, contractor-first support, Workforce Assured status, FCSA approval, veriPAYE-backed transparency, and 27 years of proven standards.

Speak to The Sterling Group about supporting your contractors without adding risk to your supply chain.

Call 01925 626200 or email sales@thesterlinggroup.co.uk.

 

At the Core of The Sterling Group

In an industry where trust, accuracy and service matter every single day, what sits at the core of your payroll partner makes all the difference.

At The Sterling Group, that core is built around more than processes and systems. It is shaped by the values that guide the business, the people behind the service, and a commitment to doing things properly. From supporting contractors to working closely with agencies, everything Sterling does is grounded in a clear purpose: to deliver a service that is reliable, professional and built around people.

Because while payroll, compliance and technology are all essential, it is the way those things come together that defines the experience clients and contractors receive.

People at the heart of everything

At The Sterling Group, people are not an afterthought. They are at the centre of the business.

That means creating an environment where employees feel valued, motivated and empowered, while also making sure contractors and clients receive the same level of care and attention. Strong relationships are built on more than a service agreement. They are built on communication, support and consistency.

Sterling’s values reflect that approach. Being open, honest and respectful to all is not simply a statement on a wall. It is part of the day-to-day standard the team works to. Whether that is answering a contractor query, supporting an agency partner or helping someone navigate a process with confidence, every interaction matters.

The value “You Count” captures this perfectly. Everything the team does has an impact, and those small moments of support, clarity and responsiveness are often the things people remember most.

Accountability in action

In a compliance-focused sector, accountability is not optional. It is essential.

At The Sterling Group, accountability means taking ownership, maintaining high standards and doing things the right way, even when no one is looking. It is a value that runs through every part of the business and supports the confidence that clients place in the service.

As an FCSA Accredited provider, Sterling understands the importance of compliance not as a box-ticking exercise, but as a core part of protecting agencies, contractors and the wider supply chain. In a landscape where legislation and scrutiny continue to evolve, working with a partner that takes responsibility seriously matters more than ever.

This commitment is also reflected in Sterling’s partnership with veriPAYE, helping agencies strengthen their compliance processes and make informed decisions with greater confidence. It is part of a wider approach that puts integrity, transparency and accountability at the forefront.

Because when standards are built into the foundation, clients can move forward with greater peace of mind.

Progress that supports people

Technology has an important role to play in modern payroll and contractor support, but only when it genuinely improves the experience for the people using it.

At The Sterling Group, innovation is not about adding complexity for the sake of it. It is about creating practical solutions that make life easier. With an in-house tech team and a contractor app designed to support the end user, Sterling continues to invest in tools that improve accessibility, efficiency and convenience.

This is where values such as leadership, motivation and “You Count” come into play again. Sterling is committed to driving positive change, embracing smarter ways of working and continually looking for ways to improve the service it offers. That progress is not pursued for appearances. It is pursued because people’s time, experience and trust matter.

Good technology should support people, not replace them. It should remove friction, increase transparency and help make everyday processes feel simpler. That is the kind of progress Sterling believes in.

A culture that builds trust

Trust is not built through big promises alone. It is built through consistency.

It comes from doing what you say you will do, taking pride in your work and showing up with the same level of care every day. At The Sterling Group, that culture is shaped by values that encourage the team to be accountable, motivated and open in the way they work.

There is also something important to be said for enjoying what you do. A team that takes pride in its work and feels motivated to do its best will always bring more energy, more care and more commitment to the service it provides. That sense of pride is part of what helps Sterling build strong, lasting relationships with agencies and contractors alike.

It is also reflected in the reputation the business continues to build. Positive client feedback and five-star Trustpilot reviews do not happen by accident. They are the result of a team that understands that trust is earned, not assumed.

More than a service

At its core, The Sterling Group is about more than payroll.

It is about people, accountability, integrity and progress. It is about creating a business where employees feel empowered, where contractors feel supported, and where clients know they are working with a partner they can rely on.

These values shape the way Sterling works every day, from customer service and compliance to technology and long-term relationships. And in an industry where the details matter, that kind of foundation makes all the difference.

Because when the core is strong, everything built on it is stronger too.

 

At The Sterling Group, compliance has always been more than a requirement. It is a core part of how we operate, how we support our partners and how we build trust across the labour supply chain.

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.

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The Sterling Group is a veriPAYE secured Partner: Revolutionising Contractor Services

The UK business landscape is continuously evolving, and staying ahead means leveraging strategic partnerships that enhance value. veriPAYE, the UK’s most advanced payroll verification service, has added The Sterling Group as a secured partner , a leading name in contractor and recruitment services. Together, they’re set to elevate the standards of compliance, transparency, and support for contractors, agency workers, and recruitment businesses across the country.

About veriPaye

veriPAYE is a cutting-edge platform designed to simplify and streamline payroll validation processes for contractors, recruiters, and umbrella companies. With robust compliance measures and an unmatched commitment to transparency, veriPAYE ensures workers are treated fairly and paid accurately.

Key Features of veriPAYE:

• Enhanced Compliance: Real-time payroll validation ensures adherence to HMRC guidelines.
• Risk Reduction: Identify and resolve payment anomalies before they escalate into larger issues.
• Secure Platform: With encryption and two-factor authentication, veriPaye ensures bank-level security for all users.
• Time & Cost Savings: Advanced automation reduces manual effort, saving significant time and resources.

veriPAYE empowers businesses by providing a centralised view of payroll data, helping all stakeholders maintain the highest standards of financial integrity.

About The Sterling Group

The Sterling Group has over two decades of experience serving contractors and recruitment agencies with tailored financial solutions. Their services are diverse, covering umbrella, PAYE, limited company set-ups, and self-employment support.

Sterling’s focus on compliance and customer service has solidified their reputation as an industry leader. Whether assisting contractors with tax efficiency or providing agencies with payroll flexibility, Sterling helps businesses operate with confidence and efficiency.

Unlocking Benefits Through the VeriPAYE-Sterling Partnership

This unique collaboration between veriPAYE and The Sterling Group is a game-changer for UK contractors, umbrella groups, and agencies. By leveraging each other’s strengths, the partnership is creating a seamless ecosystem that prioritises trust, accuracy, and efficiency.

For Contractors and Agency Workers:

• Improved Financial Transparency: Contractors can access complete visibility into their payroll, ensuring every penny is accounted for.
• Secure Transactions: Payments are verified with next-level encryption, eliminating common risks like miscalculations or delays.
• Peace of Mind: With enhanced validation technology, contractors can rest easy knowing they’re receiving their rightful dues.

For Recruitment  Businesses:

• Streamlined Payroll Processes: Businesses can save invaluable time with automated payroll reconciliations and real-time validations.
• Risk Management: Potential discrepancies in payslips and HMRC filings are flagged promptly, reducing compliance risks.
• Enhanced Credibility: Businesses gain the trust of both workers and regulators by adhering to best compliance practices.

Key Features of the Combined Offering

Together, veriPAYE and The Sterling Group are delivering an unparalleled financial solution. Here’s what you’ll gain access to:

1. Automated Payroll Validation

With veriPAYE’s real-time checks, businesses can validate payslips from top to bottom, including tax deductions, national insurance contributions (NICs), holiday pay, and pension deductions.

2. Compliance You Can Trust

Both organisations boast decades of experience ensuring adherence to UK employment laws and HMRC best practice  

The combination of the robust FCSA annual audit and the introduction of veriPAYE ensures that all parties in the supply chain can expect the highest levels of compliance, transparency and  reliability.

3. Dashboard Transparency

A robust, centralised dashboard provides a clear view of financial data, from payslips to RTI (real-time information) reconciliations. Agencies can easily track all payments and quickly address issues.

4. Security & Trust

Using advanced cloud-based servers and bank-level encryption, the system ensures data integrity and protects sensitive payroll information.

5. Unmatched Expertise

By working with industry leaders, contractors, and UK businesses alike access insights, training, and support designed to optimise financial and HR operations.

Take Advantage of the Partnership

Whether you’re a contractor looking for payroll peace of mind or a business seeking to improve compliance, this partnership has something transformational to offer.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Learn More About veriPAYE 

Explore their sophisticated payroll validation tools and how they simplify your processes.

1. Discover Sterling’s Services 

Explore tailored financial solutions designed for contractors and agencies.

1. Experience the Difference 

Contact veriPAYE or The Sterling Group today to see how they can positively impact your operations. 

Elevate Financial Wellbeing Across the Board 

The  Sterling Group  veriPAYE – secured status   is more than just a business collaboration; it’s a commitment to better financial practices, transparency, and trust for the entire contractor ecosystem. This forward-thinking move represents a significant leap in payroll innovation, empowering contractors and businesses to grow, thrive, and scale with confidence.

Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your operations.

Get in touch today and unlock a smarter, more efficient way to manage payroll and compliance.

Welcome to our latest blog update! Here at The Sterling Group, we are committed to keeping you informed about the recent changes in the UK financial landscape that may affect our agencies and contractors. Let’s dive right into the key highlights.

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!

Maximise Efficiency: Why The Sterling App is a Must for Contractors

In the bustling world of small business and self-employment, every minute and every penny counts. Streamlining your administrative tasks is not just a convenience; it’s a critical strategy for thriving in a competitive market. So, Maximise Efficiency  with The Sterling App. This is where the app stands out as a beacon of efficiency and fiscal prudence for contractors and freelancers. Developed with the user’s ease in mind, The Sterling App offers a repertoire of features designed to unburden the modern contractor, enabling them to focus on what truly matters – their craft and their clientele.

Contractors and small business owners are not merely adopting the app; they are avidly advocating it for its seamless integration into their financial management strategies and unmatched user experience. In this comprehensive exploration, we dissect the deep-seated benefits of The Sterling App, discuss why it outshines its competitors, and offer testimonials to underline its sterling reputation.

The Sterling App: What Sets It Apart

The quintessential question for any potential user is ‘why The Sterling App?’. The answer lies in the app’s intrinsic value, with features like live payment tracking, real-time expense submissions, and a user interface built for anyone, no matter their technological proficiency.

Key Features and Benefits

Imagine having your  payslips and PAYE at the tip of your fingers. The Sterling App ensures finances are within your sight at all times, giving you a proactive grip on your economic navigation. Its intuitive design transcends the limitations usually faced by complex financial software, making budgeting, and planning accessible to all.

User-Friendly Interface and Customisation

In an era of personalised experiences, The Sterling App does not disappoint. Unlike rigid financial tools, it allows users  Cross-device synchronisation to ensure you’re always working with the latest data, whether it’s on your phone or on Sterling’s portal accessed via  your desktop.

Real-Life Use Cases

To add a human touch to the app’s efficiency, consider the triumphs of those who have embraced it. From multi site  construction contractors submitting  expenses to graphic designers streamlining their client invoicing, The Sterling App has catalysed operational makeovers with tangible results.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Behind every successful feature is a satisfied user. Stories of The Sterling App reducing hours spent on financial paperwork or ensuring no expense claim goes unaddressed are not rare. Testimonials echo a unified sentiment of empowerment and liberation from financial worry, enabling users to focus on their professional goals with renewed vigour.

Why The Sterling App Works for Small Business Owners

For small business owners, financial management can be a dual-edged sword, either propelling you forward with foresight or bogging you down with intricate details. The Sterling App is the salve for the latter, offering solutions that are cost-effective and time-saving.

Time-Saving Features

Automation is the buzzword that translates to actionable time savings. The Sterling App’s integrated approach automates mundane tasks, from viewing time sheets and payments to submitting expense claims or holiday pay requests ensuring a contractors  time is reclaimed for more strategic pursuits.

How Freelancers and Self-Employed Contractors Can Benefit

For the legion of freelancers and self-employed professionals, The Sterling App is not just a tool; it’s a companion in their entrepreneurial voyages. The app allows contractors to access their account from any where at any time of the day.

Efficient Financial Management

It presents a centralised platform for financial activities, making invoice generation, payment tracking, and expense management as simple as a few taps on your smart device. The app’s power lies in this simplification, ensuring that even the most disinterested technophobes are invigorated by the ease with which they can manage their financial affairs.

Personalised Services

One size fits none in the domain of freelancing. The Sterling App acknowledges this, providing customisable services tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re a part-time contractor  or a full-fledged consultant, the app adapts to you, not the other way around.

The Impact on Your Business

The final chapter in The Sterling App’s success story is the quantifiable impact it has on businesses. Whether an uptick in invoice turnover, the optimisation of financial workflow, a significant reduction in costs, The Sterling App is a bottom-line booster through and through.

Financial Management Par Excellence

Contractors  utilising The Sterling App are adopting a modern standard in financial management, one that ensures accuracy, timeliness and compliance without fail. The ripple effect through the company’s operational efficiency is palpable, leading to enhanced client relations and a buoyed professional reputation.

Conclusion

The Sterling App is a lighthouse in the sea of financial management tools – a bright beacon guiding contractors and small business owners alike towards operational clarity and financial ease. Freelancers  are discovering , its utility is universal. If you’re ready to experience the liberation that comes with financial efficiency, it’s time to embrace The Sterling App. Try it for yourself; the testimonials you’ve heard only scratch the surface of what The Sterling App can bring to your professional life.

Navigate to the app store of your choice, download the app, and join the myriad of satisfied users who now call The Sterling App their financial ally.

Your contracting career or small business endeavours deserve the competitive edge that The Sterling App provides. It’s not just a recommendation; it’s an essential tool for the progressive professional.

We’re here and ready to help you get started, speak to our team today.

Our friendly staff are on hand to guide you through the registration process, answer any questions you may have and solve any queries.

Call us on 01925 626200

Or email us at: info@thesterlinggroup.co.uk

For more information on the benefits provided in the app visit Circular Benefits

As a contractor, your reputation and livelihood depend on compliance – having all of your paperwork and processes in order so you can focus on the work, without worrying about potential issues. However, staying on top of today’s complex regulatory landscape alone is a daunting task. That’s where The Sterling Group aims to provide support by handling all aspects of your payroll, insurance, compliance and more so you can co concentrate on your role without these headaches. But how can you really know if we actually have all the bases covered? 

Documentation:

Look for insurance and compliance documentation to ensure the correct cover for your role and industry. Our team is always available if you need to confirm any details about our insurance or any other aspect of your contract.  A compliant company will proudly display and make available to you the relevant certificates and policies  They should also make available  any professional accreditations  they have obtained to demonstrate compliance, such as membership of the FCSA, or Professional Passport and any financial accreditations. Lack of documentation could be a red flag.

Reviews and Research:

Another way to confirm compliance is to check reviews and do your research. See what other customers are saying about how the company handles compliance and regulations. You can also search online for any compliance issues or violations the company may have faced. Our TrustPilot review is rated excellent and keeps growing – you can check that out right here: https://uk.trustpilot.com/

Transparency

When working with an umbrella company ensure they are transparent regarding any deductions made from your earnings.   The payslip should clearly state what all the deductions are for.  Sterling issues every contractor with a payslip guide which clearly and transparently shows all deductions made. We are always happy to discuss this at the start of your assignment to ensure you fully understand the process.

Compliance is deeply integrated into our company’s culture. At every level, from our dedicated leaders to our frontline team, we ensure that regulatory knowledge is nurtured and shared. Our committed employees understand that compliance is not just important, but it is our utmost priority. We will always encourage our contractors to review contracts and policies. Do terms clearly  explain relevant compliance obligations? Compliant companies make their standards transparent.  Our team is well versed in making sure you’re fully up to date and are able to understand exactly what you are working with. We encourage you to ask questions! As one of the longest established contractor organisation in the UK  compliance and customer service is at the forefront of everything we do. 

Third-Party Audits

Consider a third-party audit. The gold standard is independent validation of a company’s internal compliance workings. Look for companies that undergo regular third-party audits. We take the time out to review our verification every year to stay consistently compliant. Our 2023 audit is already underway.  HMRC have a guide about working via an umbrella company it may be helpful to check out the link:  www.gov.uk/guidance/working-through-an-umbrella-company

Finally, trust your intuition – pursue companies that inspire confidence in their commitment to following both the letter and spirit of regulations. Honesty and transparency are hallmarks of umbrella companies that prioritise compliance.

If you have any questions about the compliance of The Sterling Group, or need to chat about any of our services you can get in touch with us by emailing info@thesterlinggroup.com or call 01925 626 200