More support for Brits suffering 'pay exploitation'

Vulnerable workers suffering financially because of employer negligence are set to benefit from a newly launched government helpline.

British workers struggling to manage credit card debt because their employer is exploiting them can now take advantage of a new Pay and Work Rights helpline.

Commenting on the launch, Trades Union Congress general-secretary Brendan Barber explained that the new phone line will provide additional support to workers at risk of mistreatment.

He said: "The helpline and enforcement agencies will champion the rights of vulnerable workers and ensure that rogue employers who flout the law do not get away with it.

"This will not only benefit workers across the UK, but will also help employers by promoting fair competition and preventing good employers from being undercut by bad ones."

The new helpline has also been welcomed by Citizens' Advice, which has reported a 17 per cent increase in calls relating to employment issues.

Social policy officer for employment and immigration at the charity Richard Dunstan explained that the queries it receives are only the "tip of the iceberg".