12. Using leverage: how to approach employers
Supporting migrant workers in health and social care means understanding the landscape of employers they work for – and choosing the right approach to challenge injustice. From NHS trusts and local authorities to small private care agencies and overseas recruiters, each employer type presents different risks and opportunities.
This chapter sets out how to use leverage strategically, how to approach different types of employers, and how to protect workers while pushing for change. Whether you’ re dealing with a case of unpaid wages, poor housing, or bullying, this chapter provides guidance on how to assess the risks, build pressure, and use power effectively.
Understanding the landscape: different employer types
Since the change in visa rules, there has been a huge increase in employers who are sponsor licence holders. In May 2025, there were 131,277 licensed sponsors listed on the Home Office register( see Further Resources chapter) ranging from large NHS Trusts to tiny micro-firms. While many are legitimate care providers, others are more“ fly-by-night” companies that have formed to capitalise on the rising demand for care, some of whom may not even understand the basics of employment law or their responsibilities as employers and are reluctant to engage with unions.
“ We’ re the HR for some of these employers – they’ ve got no idea what they’ re doing.” – UNISON caseworker
Since 2024, the Home Office started increasing their compliance checks on skilled worker sponsor licence holders( SLHs) – a measure the government announced as part of reducing net migration to the UK. As a result, August 2024 showed the highest number of skilled worker sponsor licences being revoked since 2012.
However, at the same time, the government removed the requirement for SLHs to apply to renew their licence after four years. This saves companies money and time, but it also means there is no longer a trigger to self-audit compliance with sponsor licence duties. These include reporting any changes to the Home Office and maintaining adequate records, including on recruitment.
Full details of the duties of SLHs can be found on the government website.
The Code of Practice SLH employers should adhere to can be also be found on the government website.
66 LRD • Supporting migrant workers