Where to get help
You do not have to deal with this alone. These organisations offer free, confidential advice. Contacting them will not affect your immigration status.
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
Free, impartial advice on employment rights, disputes, and how to make a tribunal claim. The first step before any Employment Tribunal claim.
0300 123 1100 · Mon–Fri 8am–6pm · acas.org.uk
Citizens Advice
Free confidential advice on employment, benefits, housing and more. Available online, by phone, or in person at local offices.
citizensadvice.org.uk
Employment Tribunal
If internal processes fail, you can make a claim to an Employment Tribunal. You must contact ACAS first. Strict time limits apply — do not delay.
gov.uk/employment-tribunals
Fair Work Agency (FWA)
Enforces workers' rights including minimum wage, holiday pay, and illegal recruitment fees. Can investigate employers and recover wages on your behalf. Reports underpayment, unpaid holiday pay, and illegal recruitment fees.
0800 917 2368 (free) · Phone: 0345 161 6000 · Email: contact@fairworkagency.gov.uk · gov.uk/pay-and-work-rights
Migrant Help
Free, confidential support for migrant workers including referral to the NRM and immigration legal advice.
0808 8010 503 (free, 24 hours) · migranthelpuk.org
Your trade union
If you are a union member, contact your union rep immediately. They can accompany you to meetings, provide legal support, and negotiate on your behalf. If you are not a member, consider joining — membership is often low cost.
Find a regulated immigration adviser
Only use OISC-registered advisers or regulated solicitors for immigration advice. Do not use unregulated advisers.
gov.uk/find-an-immigration-adviser · OISC adviser search
Contacting ACAS, Citizens Advice, or the Fair Work Agency does not automatically involve your employer, the government, or immigration authorities. If you are concerned about confidentiality in your specific situation, ask the adviser directly before sharing personal details.
Charities that can support you
These organisations specialise in supporting migrant workers and can provide advice, advocacy, and practical help.
Migrant Rights Network
Policy and advocacy organisation working to advance the rights of migrants in the UK. Publishes guides and resources on migrant workers' rights.
migrantsrights.org.uk
Work Rights Centre
Provides free employment and immigration advice to migrants and EU citizens. Particularly experienced with care workers and sponsored workers.
workrightscentre.org
Workers Support Centre (Scotland)
Based in Scotland, provides free advice and support to migrant workers on employment rights, exploitation, and access to services.
workerssupportcentre.org
Migrants At Work
Created this guide. We support migrant workers — particularly those on sponsored visas — through advice, resources, and community support.
info@migrantsatwork.org
Free legal advice
If you need legal advice but cannot afford a solicitor, there are free options available.
University Law Clinics
Many UK universities run free legal clinics where law students — supervised by qualified solicitors — provide advice on employment and immigration matters. Clinics vary by location. To find one near you, search "university law clinic [your city]" or ask Citizens Advice for a referral.
lawworks.org.uk — Find a Legal Advice Clinic
LawWorks
A charity that connects people on low incomes with free legal advice from volunteer solicitors. Covers employment law and other civil matters.
lawworks.org.uk
Legal Aid
You may be entitled to government-funded legal aid for immigration matters if you meet the financial eligibility criteria. Check eligibility and find a legal aid provider at:
gov.uk/check-legal-aid