One of the UK’s largest recruitment agencies Smart Solutions has reported surge in the use of its virtual workforce management portal as ‘safe distancing’ companies scramble to recruit in sectors under demand.

The Newport-headquartered company has responded to the increase in employment issues created by the Covid-19 pandemic with a series of measures to support both employers and employees across the UK.

Staff have been working around the clock as many sectors have been affected by the pandemic. Huge reductions in operations have been made in some areas, where others, especially waste and recycling, logistics and food retail have launched urgent recruitment campaigns.

Smart Solutions has been urging candidates to register on its secure online portal and are encouraging employers to manage the booking of workers virtually, through its workforce management platform.

Despite being a ‘people in action’ business, Smart Solutions has changed the way it operates to mitigate any risk through physical contact, this means that the full process for the candidate is managed online from the registration, interview, candidate right to work and validation through to the timesheet approval and payroll.

The recruitment agency is operating as ‘normal’ and has a number of jobs available for those finding themselves out of work, such as jobs in the Waste and Recycling industry, cleaners, drivers, semi-skilled workers.

Rob Webb, CEO of Smart Solutions, said: “These are uncertain times for everyone, businesses, our workers and candidates, we are ensuring our business moves with the ever-changing landscape.

“Due to people and safety concerns, it is understandable why some businesses are temporarily closing and staff are self-isolating, but we want to let people know that we are working hard to ensure our business is operating with innovation and technology whilst ensuring safety for all and that businesses have staff required.

“A good recruitment partner is a huge asset during these unprecedented times, providing flexibility and helping to take some of the stress away so that business owners can focus on the day to day running and risk mitigation in their company, with a full workforce.”

Established in 2007, Smart Solutions is a pan-European recruitment firm that provides large-scale workforce solutions.