Commissioned by the UK Workforce Hub and the NCVO’s Collaborative Working Unit, the report has identified three models by which VCOs can secure HR support collaboratively, allowing those organisations to be more proactive in their approach to HR management.

These options are: a large organisation providing HR support to a smaller one; a consortium of voluntary and community organisations jointly employing an HR person; and a council for voluntary service (CVS) delivering HR support as a chargeable service.

NCVO’s Collaborative Working Unit manager, Kate Aldous, said: “Through collaboration, organisations have the potential to take a far more proactive approach to HR. This will benefit organisations by enabling them to attract and retain good staff, as well as avoiding damaging and expensive litigation.”

The full report Consortia purchase of Human Resources (HR) support: A feasibility study can be downloaded from www.ukworkforcehub.org.uk