Migrant workers make an essential contribution in Britain, economically and socially. But their experiences of living and working here are often far from positive.
At the One Weekend, attendees were honoured to hear from Remi Diagbare and Chiedozie Daniel Onyeamah about the experiences faced by migrant workers alongside MP Matt Turmaine.
Remi shared part of her story working in social care.
“We often don’t report when we are undermined and as a result we don’t often demand our rights,” she said.
“This is why joining UNISON is the best decision for any worker, especially the migrant worker. UNISON has your back and will go all the way to ensure your rights are not trampled on and that you get a fair deal.”
Turning to the recent government white paper on immigration, she said: “Lots of the proposed changes are awful and will have an extremely negative impact on care, our colleagues and their families as well as the economy as a whole.
“We all need to come together, whether we are international workers or not, to push for what is right,” she said.
Fellow migrant care worker Daniel spoke next.
“I was motivated by the opportunity to help others and build a better life. However, the reality is that carers — especially those of us from immigrant backgrounds — face a lot of pressure, often without the same level of support or protection.”
He pointed to a range of poor working practices, including late pay and a lack of support from employers.
“There is a clear disconnect between the expectations placed on care workers and the treatment we receive,” he said.
He explained the effect a fairer visa system would have: “As immigrant care workers, we want to contribute meaningfully to society while being treated with dignity and fairness. Right now, the skilled worker visa comes with heavy restrictions that limit our independence and financial security.
“We are often tied to one employer or sponsor, and this lack of flexibility means we can’t seek better opportunities or adequate working hours elsewhere.
“A fair visa system would reduce exploitation, stop fraudulent practices in the sponsorship system, and bring an end to situations where international workers are charged exorbitant fees just to secure a job.”
Daniel also took aim at the white paper announcement, saying that Labour had won many migrant votes through its championing of policies improving social care and improving workers’ rights.
“But within a few months in power a lot has changed … they have to sit back, rethink and political strategies towards adopting the ideologies of the Conservatives and the Reform party.
“Our efforts and contributions are not being recognised and appreciated. We are not being encouraged or applauded.”
He asked those assembled for support.
“We must unite and speak together as one. We ask for your support in amplifying our concerns, whether it’s through discussions with your MPs, raising awareness in your communities, or supporting petitions that advocate for better pay, fair working conditions, and more protections for immigrant care workers like us.
“Together, we can make our voices impossible to ignore. We need your support in this fight for dignity, fairness, and respect.”
One Weekend attendees took the message to heart, coming together for a photo demanding “fair visas now” and a determination to take the campaign back to their workplaces.
