In This Guide
Unfortunately, exploitation of sponsored care workers in the UK remains a serious problem. Some employers take advantage of workers' dependence on their sponsor visa to underpay, overwork, or mistreat them. This guide explains your rights, how to recognise exploitation, and what to do about it.
You are NOT powerless. UK law protects you, and there are organisations specifically set up to help sponsored workers who are being exploited.
Warning Signs of Exploitation
If you experience any of the following, you may be a victim of exploitation:
Document confiscation
Your employer takes or holds your passport, BRP, or other personal documents
Underpayment
Being paid less than the salary stated on your CoS, or below the National Minimum Wage
Threats about your visa
Being told you will be deported if you complain, leave, or report problems
Illegal deductions
Being charged for recruitment fees, CoS costs, training costs, or accommodation at above-market rates
Excessive hours
Being required to work more hours than your contract states without proper compensation
Poor living conditions
Being forced into overcrowded or substandard accommodation controlled by your employer
Isolation
Being prevented from contacting other workers, community groups, or support organisations
Your Legal Rights
All workers in the UK have legal rights, regardless of immigration status.
Where to Get Help
Emergency (immediate danger)
999
If you are in immediate danger, call the police immediately.
GLAA (Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority)
0800 432 0804
The GLAA investigates labour exploitation. They can take action against exploitative employers. Calls are free and confidential. Translation services available.
Modern Slavery Helpline
08000 121 700
24/7 confidential helpline for victims of modern slavery and trafficking. Available in multiple languages.
ACAS (Employment Rights)
0300 123 1100
Free advice on employment rights, pay disputes, working conditions, and unfair treatment.
Citizens Advice
0800 144 8848
Free legal advice on employment and immigration. Visit your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau in person.
Safe reporting guarantee: The Home Office has confirmed that victims of exploitation who come forward will not face adverse immigration consequences. Reporting exploitation is treated as a sign of good character.
Steps to Take If You Are Being Exploited
Keep evidence
Save all payslips, contracts, messages, emails, and records of hours worked. Take photos if relevant. Keep these somewhere safe that your employer cannot access.
Secure your documents
If your employer has your passport or BRP, demand it back. If they refuse, report this to the police — withholding someone's documents is a criminal offence.
Contact a support organisation
Call the GLAA (0800 432 0804) or Modern Slavery Helpline (08000 121 700). They will advise you on next steps specific to your situation.
Start looking for a new sponsor
Use CareVisa to find a new employer. You have the right to switch sponsors at any time. Many good employers specifically welcome workers leaving exploitative situations.
Report to the Home Office
The Home Office takes exploitation seriously. Reporting an employer for breaching their sponsor duties can result in their licence being revoked, which protects future workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as exploitation of a care worker in the UK?
Exploitation includes: being paid less than the salary on your CoS, having your passport or documents confiscated, being threatened with deportation if you leave, being charged recruitment fees or CoS costs, excessive working hours without proper pay, being forced to live in substandard accommodation, or being prevented from switching employers. All of these are illegal.
Where can I report exploitation as a care worker?
You can report to the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) on 0800 432 0804, the Modern Slavery Helpline on 08000 121 700, the Home Office on 0300 123 7379, ACAS for employment issues on 0300 123 1100, or your local police if you are in immediate danger. Reporting exploitation will NOT negatively affect your immigration status.
Can my employer cancel my visa if I leave?
Your employer can report to the Home Office that you have left, which will end your current sponsorship. However, this triggers the 60-day rule giving you time to find a new sponsor. Your employer CANNOT directly cancel your visa or have you deported. Only the Home Office can make immigration decisions.
Am I protected by UK employment law?
Yes, all workers in the UK, regardless of immigration status, are protected by UK employment law. This includes the right to the National Minimum Wage, paid holiday, maximum working hours, health and safety protection, protection from discrimination, and the right to join a union.
What if I paid recruitment fees to come to the UK?
Charging recruitment fees to workers is illegal under UK law. If you paid fees to a recruitment agency or employer for your job or visa, you may be a victim of labour exploitation. Report this to the GLAA. You may be entitled to compensation and your employer could face criminal prosecution.
Will reporting exploitation affect my visa or future applications?
No. The Home Office has stated that victims of exploitation who report in good faith will not face immigration penalties. If anything, reporting exploitation demonstrates good character and cooperation with UK authorities, which is viewed positively in future applications.