Employment
Finding a job
You have the right to work as soon as you arrive in the UK. You need to be over 18 to work full time.
There’s a range of information to help you find a job, but you can visit your local Jobcentre Plus if you want to talk to someone about finding a job or applying for benefits.
Your rights and safe working
Once employed, your rights as a worker are protected by UK law.
Some rights take immediate effect, some are conditional and depend on how long you work. You should expect the following from your employer. These are your employment rights.
You are entitled to:
- be paid the National Minimum Wage
- rest breaks and time off work
- paid holiday
- an itemised payslip
- fair and legal deductions from your wages
- a safe working environment
- sick pay
- a copy of your terms and conditions
You can read more about your rights as a worker in the UK.
The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority protects vulnerable and exploited workers. They have more information about your rights in Ukrainian and Russian and have a helpline if you need to report any problems.
- Workers rights (English)
- Workers rights (Ukrainian)
- Workers rights (Russian)
Report problems with an employer to the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority by calling 0800 432 0804.
Modern slavery
Slavery is a word for when one person obtains or forces another person to work for them against their wishes. Unfortunately, slavery does happen in the UK.
You can report any concerns to the UK Modern Slavery and Exploitation helpline on 08000 121 700 or online. There are Ukrainian and Russian translators available. You can find more information on the Unseen website.