Advice please if choice of direct or via agent

[fidot]

'Fraid not. It's not related to whether you use an agency or not. The proposal is that if you are subject to any one of Supervision, Direction or Control then you can't claim. Going direct makes no differance.

The only exception is for what they see as large consultancies who main business is not in the supply of labour. They regard your Ltd. Co. as primarily existing in order to supply your labour to end clients.

Yes that is true, but going via an agency pre-supposes SDC (according to the proposal). If you are direct you will at least have a chance to discuss it.

[uk contractor]

Go direct its probably less cost to the client they do not have to pay agency margin or renewal fees so they can still pay you a decent rate. IME working direct means you have HR access I have walked into HR before & got any payroll issues sorted immediately.

If you have decent people skills its easy to get HR to help you out if they need to. I also think the client will favour direct applicants vs agency applicants as less overhead to them so it goes in the favour of direct applicants IME.

[PurpleGorilla]

Thanks for all the messages, I've applied direct, I will keep you posted.

[Zumba Queen]

I assume the contract terms and conditions will more or less be same for both the scenarios. Is there anything specific to look for in the terms and conditions in case of direct engagement ?

If you're considering going direct (and I always try to) then you need to read the contract extremely carefully. I usually provide mine for reference - I paid to have it drawn up - as that way you can ensure IPR, Warranties, patents etc are covered as you want it (not to mention substitution).
If T&S is a concern, factor it into your rate. But be reasonable. I'm currently direct with a client and have to travel 200 miles a week and stay over 1-2 nights a week. I charge an extra £50/day and try to only stay over once a week. That covers my costs. I have an agreement that I won'y incur any other expenses!
But don't forget many clients still try to stick to 45-60 day payment terms!