Work Exploitation and Migrant Workers’ Rights

This guide from Right to Remain (last updated July 2025) explains what work exploitation is — ranging from minor labour law violations to severe modern slavery — and where it commonly occurs, including domestic settings, agriculture, hospitality, and care homes. It sets out in plain language how the UK's visa sponsorship system, the threat of immigration enforcement, and the No Recourse to Public Funds condition each increase migrant workers' vulnerability to exploitation. The guide also outlines migrant workers' employment rights, practical steps to take if experiencing exploitation, and signposts to organisations including the Work Rights Centre, Kalayaan, trade unions, and free legal advice services. It is written accessibly for migrant workers themselves but is equally useful for community organisers and caseworkers supporting them.