Migrant workers are still being exploited

Employers are continuing to take advantage of migrant workers' ignorance of UK employment law, the GMB general union has claimed after winning more than £10,000 in compensation for a Portuguese worker sacked without notice or explanation.

Alda Esteves had worked for Orchard Mushrooms for more than a year before being told "Don't come back any more". She did not receive her outstanding holiday pay and no reason for her dismissal was provided. The GMB took her case to the Norwich employment tribunal, which this month awarded her £10,900.20.

"It is hard to ask for your rights at work when you don't know you have any," said GMB senior organiser Shaun Graham, adding that the union is "constantly" uncovering similar behaviour by unscrupulous employers and agencies.

Citing examples of workers being charged £250 to have their employment documents translated and even having to pay for their P45 certificate when they leave a job, Graham said: "These vulnerable workers are being ripped off big-time, so the GMB is giving them a leg up and helping them to be treated properly under the law."