Right to work checks to cover self-employed
NEWS IN NUMBERS
T he government is preparing to introduce right to work checks for self-employed workers, extending current requirements beyond traditional employment to include contractors, gig workers and those on zero-hours contracts. Under the changes, businesses hiring self-employed individuals will be legally obligated to verify their right to work in the UK, mirroring checks already in place for directly employed staff. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Under our Plan for Change, we are restoring order to the asylum and immigration system by introducing tougher laws and bolstering enforcement action to tackle illegal working and stop rogue employers in their tracks. “Turning a blind eye to illegal working plays into the hands of callous people smugglers... These exploitative practices are often an attempt to undercut competitors who are doing the right thing. But we are clear that the rules need to be respected and enforced.” The changes will affect sectors that rely heavily on self-employed or casual labour, such as construction. The government says that businesses failing to comply could face fines of up to £60,000 per illegal worker, alongside potential director bans, business closures, or even prison sentences of up to five years.
Currently, UK right to work legislation is geared towards verifying employment status rather than self-employment, creating an enforcement gap. Proposed amendments to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill, now passing through parliament, would make it possible to legally require these checks for all working arrangements. The Home Office says the process will be quick and simple, with a free verification service available to businesses. Digital ID tools and helpline support will also be provided. A consultation period will follow once the bill passes, giving businesses a chance to comment. The changes form part of a wider government push to strengthen border enforcement and reduce illegal working, with increased workplace raids, arrests and removal efforts already underway.
31% The percentage of UK tradespeople who are contemplating leaving
the construction industry due to work-related stress, burnout, and a lack of mental health support. Source: Survey by health and safety specialists Arco
£600m Investment by the government to train up to 60,000 skilled construction workers. Source: Construction Skills Mission Board
Construction boss on the run
A Suffolk construction boss is being sought by police after repeatedly failing to appear in court to face serious charges, including gross negligence manslaughter. Peter Clifford of Felixstowe, was due to face trial over the death of 33-year- old Dale Baker, who died in December 2020 when a trench collapsed during house extension works. Clifford’s
company, Hintonwood East Anglia Ltd, is also facing safety charges. Clifford was initially charged in October 2024 and appeared before Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on 15 November. However, he failed to attend two subsequent hearings at Ipswich Crown Court on 20 March and 4 April 2025. A warrant has now been issued for his arrest.
£6.8bn The estimated economic value that the housebuilding sector is set to add to the UK economy by 2030. Source: Office for Budgetary Responsibility
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