FAQ

What types of work do you have?
We have a wide range of flexible and varied positions to suit all different levels of skills and experience. Backed by 20 years experience, we have assignments with numerous clients. In short, we have work in all office environments spanning all levels. If a job category is not listed, please do send an email, via the Contact Us page.

Executive PA's  PA's  Medical PA's  Medical Secretaries 
Legal Secretaries  General Secretaries  Data Entry Clerks  Filinig Clerks 
Ward Clerks  Clinic Clerks  Receptionists  Admin Assistants 
Senior Administrators  Team Administrators  Front Desk  Office Management 
Call Centre Project Coordinators Project Managers and many many more


Do you have work at the end of the assignment?
Yes. With coverage across London, we have continual vacancies being placed with us. Our consultants will work closely with you to provide you with the next assignment as soon as one finishes. We are proud that some people have worked through Lifeline for over ten years and understand that this can be a period of uncertainty. Above all, we are here to help.

How much support will I get?
We understand that people choose temporary work for a multitude of reasons. Levels of support vary with each individual and at Lifeline, we respect everyone’s individuality. You will be fully briefed on each new placement and during registration you receive a comprehensive handbook which covers most issues. We will also regularly call to see if you are happy in your posting and if you have any concerns. Please remember you can always call.

Is there any work?
Yes. Work comes in on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. It is essential that you keep us regularly informed of your availability and any changes of circumstance.

Are there many ongoing bookings?
Yes. It depends on client demand and we do receive numerous long-term assignments. Positions can cover sick leave, annual leave, maternity / paternity leave, permanent vacancies, special projects and increased workloads etc.

What is the pay like?
Pay rates do vary depending on specific roles and individuals’ abilities. We fully discuss pay prior to the start of all assignments.

Have you received my timesheet?
We run a weekly payroll. The deadline for timesheets is Monday 12.00 noon each week and we ask that you fax your timesheet to us at your earliest convenience. We issue text messages each Monday to confirm receipt.

Can you confirm the total holiday pay accrued?
Simply email Holiday and we will let you know how many days you have accrued and how much is outstanding.

How does holiday pay work?
As from 1st October 2008, holiday pay allowance rose to 28 days being 12.08% and this is paid in addition to your hourly rate. The holiday year runs between 1st October to 30th September and please note it cannot be carried forward nor substituted for pay.

What should I wear?
Always dress smartly or wear a business suit when going to a new booking. Our handbook sets out full details.

Do you have work outside of London?
Currently our work is based in the London area and Home Counties.

How is tax calculated?
Income tax is your contribution to Government spending. Everyone who receives income over a certain amount in the tax year pays income tax – the more you earn the more you pay. Whilst working for Lifeline we will deduct the tax from your earnings and pass it to the Inland Revenue. Every individual is entitled to an annual tax free allowance – in the tax year 2008-2009, this is £5,225 released each week at a rate of £100.48.

Thereafter you will be taxed as follows:

The tax rates and bands of taxable income are:

Starting rate for savings: 10%* £0 – £2,330
Basic rate of 20% £0 – £37,400
Higher rate of 40% over £ 37,400

  • From 2008 – 09 there is a 10% starting rate for savings income only. If your none-savings income is above this limit then the 10% starting rate for savings will not apply.

Our payroll team will be happy to answer any queries.

What is a P45?
A P45 is an Inland Revenue form issued to a candidate when they leave employment and start working elsewhere. The P45 will detail both the total you have earned and the total tax paid to date in the current financial year. The P45 is then passed on to the new employer and they will be able to put you on the correct tax code based on this information.

What is a P46?
A P46 is an Inland Revenue form completed by candidates when they register with us and do not have a P45. The P46 is a coding request from the candidate to the Inland Revenue. Typically the correct code will be received 6 – 8 weeks after receipt of the form.

What is a P60?
A P60 is issued at the end of the financial year (5th April) and will detail earnings and tax paid for the financial year. You will only be issued a P60 if you are working for our agency at the end of the financial year or if you have worked for us during the financial year but have not been issued a P45. Your P60 can then be used to determine if you need to claim any tax back from the Inland Revenue. We cannot claim tax back on behalf of candidates.

I’m a student, what about my tax exemption (P38)?
If you work for us during the holidays only you do not have to pay tax on your earning up to the personal allowance of £ 5,225 if you complete the student declaration form P38 and provide Lifeline with a letter confirming your registration for that academic year.