Action to protect vulnerable workers
Vulnerable workers are to get enhanced care in the workplace aimed at protecting them from rogue employers. Bosses themselves need to be aware of the moves and, of course, take full account of employment rules.
A Vulnerable Worker Enforcement Forum has been set up to bring together experts from unions, business, enforcement and advice bodies to look at the best way to protect vulnerable people in the workforce.
Two pilot projects have started in Birmingham and London to identify ways vulnerable workers and their employers can better understand their rights and access help, advice and information.
The forum aims to ensure workers get their full entitlement to employment rights and is developing a co-ordinated approach to taking action against employers who fail to comply with legislation.
The Government defines a vulnerable worker as someone working in an environment where the risk of being denied employment rights is high and who does not have the capacity or means to protect themselves. This could be because they have poor knowledge of rights, low skills, lack of fluency in English, or they could be in debt to an employer for accommodation or loans.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) says up to one in five of the workforce may be considered vulnerable. Examples of exploitation include low pay, including illegal and unfair deductions from the minimum wage; unsafe workplaces; limited rights to leave; lack of control over working time and lack of security.
If you think you are not receiving your full rights under employment law, please ask to talk to one of our solicitors. Employers who want to make sure they comply with legislation should also seek our expert advice.
Contact
Judith Ellery Head of Employment
Angelina Rigby Partner
Bethan Southcombe Solicitor
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