Upcoming Changes to Right-to-Work Checks in the UK: Self-Employed Contractors to be Included

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced plans to extend right-to-work checks to include self-employed contractors. This initiative aims to combat illegal migration and reduce exploitation in industries like construction.

Currently, businesses are legally required to verify the Right to Work for employees they directly hire, with penalties of up to £60,000 for non-compliance. Whilst Stonebridge already extends this process to the self-employed for best and fair practice, the absence of a legal mandate for these workers has enabled exploitation in temporary contracting, allowing individuals to be more easily drawn into illegal work.

The upcoming changes, expected to be enforced once the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill is passed, will extend these checks to self-employed workers. Whilst no official date has been set, there are indications that some measures may take effect later this year. These reforms aim to create a fairer, less exploitative environment within the industry.

As these changes are implemented, affected industries will need to prepare for new compliance requirements, which could be in place soon.

How Will This Impact Stonebridge’s Clients?

The short answer is, it won’t! Stonebridge has always been committed to maintaining a fully transparent supply chain, ensuring the integrity and protection of all parties involved. We require Right to Work checks for all contingent workers, regardless of their status, before we can engage with them.

Whilst the Home Office plans to roll out digital ID verification technology (IDVT) to assist businesses in conducting checks, Stonebridge already has this technology embedded in our processes.

So, if you're already contracted with Stonebridge, there’s no need to worry. Our processes are designed to mitigate the risk of illegal working among self-employed individuals. We verify the Right to Work for all workers and are fully prepared to comply with any government changes once further details are shared.

For more information about our processes or to learn how we can help protect your supply chain, get in touch with us today.