Temporary to Permanent Staffing Solution

March 15, 2022

Client Overview

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Our client operates Ofsted-registered children’s residential homes and supported living services for young people aged 16+. Due to the nature of the sector, maintaining safe staffing levels and consistency of care is critical.


To support their services, the client relied on agency staff to cover shifts and ensure young people received continuous, high-quality support.

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Three office workers: one in a wheelchair, being pushed by another, with a third walking beside them, holding a tablet and coffee.

The Challenge

Between March 2023 and late summer, the client experienced a sudden increase in staffing demand. While agency staff provided vital cover, the client wanted a more sustainable, cost-effective long-term solution without compromising quality or fit.

Key challenges included:

  • High agency costs over extended periods
  • The need for consistency for young people in care
  • Candidate hesitation around committing to permanent roles
  • Concerns from permanent-seeking candidates about temporary-to-permanent security

Our Approach

We introduced a temporary-to-permanent staffing model, allowing the client to:


  • Assess candidates in real working environments
  • Maintain consistency with familiar agency staff
  • Spread recruitment costs over time
  • Reduce the risk associated with direct permanent recruitment


Throughout the process, clear communication and reassurance were essential. We supported candidates closely, addressing concerns around flexibility, job security, and long-term prospects, while keeping the client fully informed at every stage.

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The Outcome

✔ Successfully filled multiple permanent positions
✔ Reduced long-term agency expenditure
✔ Faster start dates using already-cleared agency workers
✔ Smooth integration into permanent teams
✔ Improved stability and continuity of care


Because candidates were already vetted and working through us, they were able to start immediately, transitioning seamlessly while permanent compliance checks were completed.



Both client and candidates reported high satisfaction, with roles secured that suited their needs and working styles.

Why This Worked

This project demonstrates how a temporary-to-permanent recruitment strategy can:


  • Lower financial risk
  • Improve staff retention
  • Strengthen care continuity
  • Build confidence on both sides before committing long-term


A flexible, people-first solution - aligned with the realities of social care.

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