7. The consequences of dismissal: when a worker loses sponsorship
However, organisations note that significant barriers remain and the system is inadequate to deal with the scale of the problem:
• Many migrant workers are unaware of the scheme or the changes to it. The Work Rights Centre found in June 2025 that only 941 of 29,000 exploited migrant workers reported finding a new employer through the multimillion-pound scheme
• Language barriers and a lack of digital access can limit their ability to use the system.
• Not all eligible employers are participating in the scheme, limiting job opportunities.
• The system only currently operates in England and no support is provided in the devolved nations.
UNISON continues to campaign for the scheme to be more accessible and adequately funded, and for better communication and support to be given to displaced workers during this crucial period.
How the relocation scheme works
The Department of Health and Social Care( DHSC) supports 15 regional partnerships of English local authorities and care provider representatives, headed by a lead council to help displaced migrant workers find new sponsored jobs.
Although funding was reduced from £ 16m in 2024-25 to £ 12.5m in 2025-6, it is designed to help staff who have come to the UK to work in social care on skilled worker visas and who have had to leave their jobs, either due to exploitation or unethical practices or because employers have not complied with immigration rules.
How to access this funded support:
Eligible workers must email the regional partnership in the area where they live. Contact details can be found in the table on page 37.
The email should include:
• their name
• the address they are currently living at
• their contact details
• the name of the provider sponsoring their visa
It is important that the regional contact has the correct information so that they can provide the best possible support without delay.
36 LRD • Supporting migrant workers