Help for seasonal and migrant workers
Working on a farm, in a warehouse or anywhere else in the UK? You have rights at work, like everyone else. We help in Ukrainian and English, for free — wherever you are in England and Wales.
Common questions
Short answers to what people ask us most. Each one links to the official website.
What is the minimum wage?
From 1 April 2026: £12.71 an hour if you are 21 or over, £10.85 if you are 18 to 20, and £8.00 if you are under 18 or an apprentice.
My employer isn’t paying me or is treating me badly
The Fair Work Agency (which replaced the GLAA in April 2026) deals with unpaid wages and exploitation. Phone: 0345 161 6000. If you are in danger right now, call 999.
Do I get paid when I’m off sick?
Since 6 April 2026, eligible employees get Statutory Sick Pay from their first day off sick.
How do I get a National Insurance number?
Apply online if you live in the UK and have the right to work. You can start work before it arrives if you can prove your right to work. It can take up to 4 weeks. Helpline: 0800 141 2079.
Do I need to do a Self Assessment tax return?
You usually do if you’re self-employed or have untaxed income, for example from renting out property. Register by 5 October after the tax year ends, then file online and pay by 31 January.
My employer broke the law. Can I go to a tribunal?
First you must contact Acas for ‘early conciliation’ — it’s free and may solve the problem without a hearing.
Your pay
In the UK, almost every worker must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for every hour worked. You should get a payslip showing how your pay was worked out.
From 1 April 2026 that is at least £12.71 an hour if you are 21 or over. Seasonal workers in horticulture must also get at least 32 hours’ pay each week. Since 6 April 2026, sick pay starts from your first day off sick.
- Checking your payslip together
- Understanding deductions, for example for accommodation or transport
- Helping you ask your employer about missing pay
Your contract and hours
- Explaining your contract in your language
- What to do if you get far fewer hours than you were promised
- Asking your scheme operator about moving to another farm
Accommodation
Caravans and shared housing provided for work should be safe and in good repair.
- Problems with heating, water or safety
- Overcrowding
- Who to contact if nothing changes
When something is seriously wrong
Being threatened, having your passport taken from you, or owing money to a recruiter are warning signs of exploitation. Since April 2026 this is investigated by the Fair Work Agency, which took over the work of the GLAA. Its phone number is 0345 161 6000. We can explain how to report it, and support you through it.
Acas also gives free, confidential advice about rights at work.
If you are in danger right now, call 999.
Help from wherever you are
Most seasonal workers live far from London. That’s fine — we help by phone and email, in Ukrainian or English.
Didn’t find your answer?
Most answers are in UACT Help, with links to the official websites. If you still need help, call or email us — free, in Ukrainian and English.