Appendix II Migrant Workers’ Charter
Provided Accommodation
The vulnerabilities of having visa status tied to employment can be magnified when accommodation is also provided by the same employer. Accommodation needs to be provided on a fair, freely-chosen and transparent basis.
The signatory local authorities will:
15. Ensure there are clear rental agreements for all tenants and that the rent does not exceed market rates.
16. Ensure that migrant care workers can choose their own accommodation and know how to find information about Registered Social Landlords and other reputable sources of accommodation.
17. Ensure that occupancy levels are monitored, that accommodation is safe and suitable and that occupants know how to complain about housing standards to the local authority or the Housing Ombudsman.
Pregnancy, Maternity & Childcare
Migrant care workers who becoming pregnant are entitled to the same protections as all workers. Employers failing to renew sponsorships for those on maternity leave, or who have recently returned to work, can make those workers especially vulnerable, as they may struggle to find a new sponsor whilst balancing other commitments.
The signatory local authority will:
18. Require contracted care providers to inform the local authority as soon as they become aware of not being able to( or not intending to) renew the sponsorship of a migrant care worker who is:
a. pregnant, b. on maternity leave, or c. who has returned from maternity in the last year
This is in addition to the requirements under 4, 5 & 6 of this charter.
90 LRD • Supporting migrant workers