The framework offers a solution the challenge of finding and retaining temporary staff by providing access to 12 specialist recruitment companies.

Nicola Mellor, TUCO category manager for the Recruitment Services Framework, said: “At TUCO we know that finding and recruiting staff with the certain skills needed to work in HE catering can not only be challenging but also expensive.

“When developing the framework, we conducted a member-led survey with 19 institutions and found a combined average spend of £4.5m per year on temporary recruitment. By going through the approved suppliers within the framework, university caterers can ensure value for money, as well as compliance to staffing legislation and regulations – ultimately helping to better manage the staffing process and reduce budgets.”

The framework allows baristas, bar staff, head chefs and front of house members to be recruited by caterers with as little as 24 hours notice.