Dartford becomes first UK council to outsource complete HR function

Dartford Borough Council has become the first in the UK to outsource its entire HR and payroll function.

The council aims to meet government efficiency targets and expects to save £50,000 a year through the deal with Northgate HR.

The first payroll run for the council’s 400 employees is scheduled for April. All other HR functions including recruitment, absence management and employee retention have been outsourced to Northgate HR since October 2007.

Steve Brooks, head of finance and resources at Dartford Borough Council, said: “By outsourcing all HR and payroll we’re able to take advantage of Northgate HR’s expertise and vast experience in the area.”