There have been reports about the rise in job scams linked to international workers in the UK, who are being targeted by fraudsters and losing thousands of pounds under the pretence of securing employment.

The Department of Health and Social Care has put together some advice on how to stay safe and avoid scams when searching for a social care job in the UK, which is included in their International Care Worker Support Document.

You can find advice on staying safe and avoiding scams when searching for a social care job in the UK at: Advice to help you stay safe when searching for a health or social care job in the UK (publishing.service.gov.uk)

The Department of Health and Social Care checklist for avoiding scams states:
• DO check that your agency is on the ‘ethical recruiters list’ at: Ethical Recruiters List | NHS Employers.
• DO get a contract describing the salary, hours, location, and any repayment clauses – make sure your employer sticks to the contract.
• DO be aware of the signs of exploitation, including:
o receiving little to no payment.
o being asked to repay large amounts of money.
o working very long hours.
o having no time off.
• DO NOT apply to jobs that seem too good to be true.
• DO NOT pay money to an agency to find you work in the UK – this is against UK law.
• DO NOT be forced or threatened into signing a contract.
• DO NOT accept threats of deportation from your employer – understand your rights.

Recruitment Support

The West Midlands International Recruitment Programme has partnered with Lifted Talent to support International Care Workers in the West Midlands to find a new sponsored role.

The team will do their best to help you find a new role and provide the support you need. You can find out more information here:

http://irwestmids.co.uk/help-finding-a-job/

Legal & HR Advice

If you are an International Care Worker, based in the West Midlands, and you feel you need specialist Legal or Human Resources advice, we can offer you a FREE 30-minute consultation with a legal or HR specialist.

To access the helpline, you must first register at https://www.wmca.care/p2c/legal. One of our representatives will get back to you within normal office hours. This service cannot provide support for employment disputes or tribunals.