Eastern Europeans Plug Labour Gap
May 18 2007
Employers struggling to find workers for jobs where pay is near national minimum levels are increasingly turning to eastern European nationals ready to roll up their sleeves.
A specialist Lancaster employers’ consultancy is currently helping clients fill a gaping hole in the labour force by advising companies on legislation for legitimate migrant workers.
“This isn’t a case of EU residents sweeping in and taking work from our own people,� stressed Malcolm Martin, managing director of Employer Solutions.
“These tend to be lower paid jobs, often in the care sector, which has consistently struggled to fill posts. Already there are around 25,000 Europeans in care jobs across the UK and numbers are set to rise.�
New found freedom for former Soviet bloc citizens from countries such as Poland, Latvia and the Czech Republic means they are free to work in the UK with Home Office registration.
“They are incredibly hard working, dedicated and enthusiastic people, who have made a big difference to the firms who have seized on their commitment and drive,� said Malcolm.
Susan Jones, Manager of retirement home Bushell House near Preston, demands high standards in her staff. She has not always been successful recruiting in the local labour market.
“I had the opportunity to employ a young Polish girl, who is very, very hardworking,� she said, “Before taking her on we’d spent a lot of time trying to discover what legal implications would arise in employing her.�
Employer Solutions advises on employment contracts and legislation surrounding EU workers and was able to assist her with the process.
“There isn’t as much red tape as you might think, even for new EU members from the old Soviet bloc countries, who are free to work here,� said Malcolm.
“With summer just around the corner, many businesses will want seasonal staff, as well as a more permanent workforce and if they’ve struggled in the past to find the right people, they would do well to consider this very impressive labour market.�
Anyone wanting help or advice about employing EU nationals should contact Malcolm Martin on 01524 599399, mail@employersolutions.co.uk or log on to http://www.employersolutions.co.uk
