The move introduces a more strategic, transparent and cost-effective model for managing temporary staffing requirements. By adopting WMTemps, Coventry joins a growing number of local authorities across the West Midlands who are taking a more coordinated and sustainable, regional approach to addressing local government workforce challenges.
Developed by West Midlands Employers and delivered in partnership with Opus People Solutions, WMTemps has been designed to help West Midlands councils reduce overall agency spend by introducing more consistent processes and encouraging more sustainable resourcing approaches. This includes reducing off contract agency usage and exploring opportunities for temporary workers to move into permanent roles, helping to build a more stable workforce over time.
As Managed Service Provider (MSP), Opus People Solutions will oversee the end-to-end provision of temporary agency workers. This includes supplier management, governance, reporting and workforce insight, enabling the council to make more informed decisions about how temporary resource is used.
The transition is expected to provide particular value in high-demand areas such as social work, where access to skilled professionals is critical. Through WMTemps, the council will be better equipped to plan workforce needs and reduce the need for reactive agency sourcing.
As part of a regional framework, Coventry City Council will also benefit from shared learning, regional insight and a consistent approach to managing temporary labour across participating authorities.
Selena Ayling, Managing Director at Opus People Solutions, said:
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with Coventry City Council as it joins the WMTemps Framework.
Our priority is to support the council in building a more resilient and forward-looking workforce model, particularly in areas where demand is high. By providing greater visibility, control and access to workforce data, we hope drive more sustainable outcomes and long-term value for temporary resourcing.”
For more information on WMTemps, visit:
https://wmemployers.org.uk/our-services/resourcing/regional-workforce-solutions/wmtemps/
