Work rights helpline

A new government Pay and Work Rights helpline, launched in September, fulfils a key recommendation of the Commission on Vulnerable Employment, and is being welcomed by the TUC. The helpline will advise workers on the National Minimum Wage, working hours, agency standards and other rights. Workers can also request help to enforce rights and report abuses.

“This will not only benefit workers, but will also help employers by preventing good employers from being undercut by bad ones using unlawful practices,” said TUC general secretary Brendan Barber.

The 2008 Fair Treatment at Work Survey, published in September, shows a 13% rise in awareness of workplace rights among employees. Over three-quarters of the working population now feel confident they are well informed on their working rights. A growing number (72% in 2008 compared to 53% in 2005) are also prepared to seek advice and information on work problems.

The helpline is 0800 917 2368 or textphone 0800 121 4042. The Fair Treatment at Work Survey report can be downloaded from: www.berr.gov.uk/whatwedo/employment/research-evaluation/errs/index.html#