TUC praises new programme for low earners

22/09/2009

Vulnerable workers on low pay will benefit from a new government-backed helpline, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) said today (September 22nd).

According to the organisation, the Pay and Work Rights line will help to reduce employer mistreatment of workers - including cases of employees being forced to work excessive hours for less than the minimum wage.

Callers to the helpline are able to find out about their legal rights in clear terms.

The launch comes at a time of increased job insecurity in the UK, with the credit crunch and recession pushing unemployment to a 14-year high.

Latest labour market statistics show that the number of people out of work is approaching 2.5 million.

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "The helpline and enforcement agencies will champion the rights of vulnerable workers, and ensure that rogue employers who flout the law do not get away with it.

"This will not only benefit workers across the UK, but will also help employers by promoting fair competition and preventing good employers from being undercut by bad ones using unlawful practices."

The UK minimum wage currently stands at £5.73 for all workers aged 22 or older.

Tags; Job loss, Credit Card Lifestyle, Recent Graduate Debt,

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