NFU Mutual

Fair assessment, but only kept those that were assessed inside IR35!

Dialled into a call in December where we were told that NFUM will be using CEST. When it was suggested that they could use other tools, a statement was made to the effect of ‘they’ll all give the same result’. I get the impression that they think they can attract the same quality of contractor at the same day rate, albeit inside IR35. I haven’t seen an SDS, but then I have said that I won’t consider remaining in an inside IR35 status at the end of my current contract. Instead, I’ll be joining the rather large group of contractors playing musical chairs... I’ll take away my memories of a nice working environment, good people and hope that I may be able to return one day on an outside IR35 basis.

Sadly NFUM have made the decision to assess all its contractors using CEST which we all know is flawed and does not give a compliant SDS. The project I am working on is due for completion over the next 5 months and due them finding everyone inside IR35 they will be losing at least 8 of their senior contract members at a crucial time which will put the project in a crisis. Why would they treat their contractors in this way but more importantly why throw projects under a bus at a financial loss when there is a simple fix by using another product other than CEST at around £70c per contractor. I always thought NFUM would want to keep the best and keep ahead of its competitors but they will lose the best to companies who assess fairly

Carrying on BAU

CEST tool is used incorrectly to obtain inside status based on role type. Also stated if they can’t find someone accepting a role inside, they will then advertise it outside...

They use CEST tool but don't fully understand the questions and answer incorrectly, giving an inside status rather than outside.

Had a great chat with contract resource team, both sides learnt a lot and actually advised my hirer to make some changes to further solidify the outside assessment.

Sat down with HR. CEST said I was out, but I was ’referred’ as my role is being blanket assessed as inside. Other contractors who gave the same answers were deemed outside as they had a different role.

Disappointed. They’re ignoring key points in existing contract