Changes to the Immigration Act 2016
Changes to the Immigration Act 2016 include the criminal offence of employing an illegal worker from 12th July.
Under the Act the definition of what constitutes an offence is changing so that the employer “must have reasonable cause to believe the employee is disqualified from employment.”
The Government factsheet produced in relation to the Immigration Act states that the test is more objective and will “make it easier to prove the offence.”
Another significant change is that convicted employers face a maximum prison sentence of 5 years, increased from 2 years.
Clearly this is an effort by the Government to crack down on employers who are employing illegal workers. Turning a blind eye is a risky strategy for any employer. You must carry out the necessary checks regarding all employees to be satisfied that they are entitled to work in this country. Of course what will happen after the 23rd June remains to be seen!
Testimonials
“I would like to say how helpful, supportive and knowledgeable you have been throughout my whole wrongful disciplinary and subsequent ACAS procedure I have been through. Your responses to anything I have sent have been quick, professional and of such high quality, making me feel reassured in my position. Excellent all round, very much appreciated. Thank you”
LJ South Lakes – Unfair Dismissal
Always available, aways solid and dependable advice. Thank you very much.
Local Solicitor’s Firm – Employment dispute
“I have worked closely with Gail and Clare for over 4 years, after they took over our HR and then our payroll. What I appreciate most is the personal service they provide, I can always pick up the phone and chat through any issues at any time. If I have a concern I am immediately reassured by their professional and approachable manner. I always feel that our school is their priority and our staff are real people to them, not just a payroll number.
Both Clare and Gail bend over backwards to fit into our schedules and provide a quick, accurate service. I would wholeheartedly recommend their brilliant professional, friendly service.”
Cath Billington – Small School Business Manager, St. Mary’s CE Primary School
“About 18 months ago we approached Gail Escolme Legal with regard to providing payroll services, as they already provided us with HR services. The professionalism and the way they handled the transfer from our existing provider was outstanding. Gail and Clare were there every step of the way guiding us through the process and ensuring a smooth transition.
In the twelve months they have been handling our payroll, the service we have received has been exceptional, something they consider to be the ‘norm’. Gail and Clare are always willing to help with any queries we have, including issues which were outstanding from our previous provider. They have certainly made my life easier in terms of processing payroll which is down to their dedication to getting things right first time.”
Vicki Hayward – Business Manager Archbishop Temple School Preston
“When facing a business contract termination with potential issues, Gail helped me with advice for my preliminary meetings and then support through the early stages of my communications with the company concerned. As the case escalated to a more formal pressing of my claim, Gail took over the communication with expert advice and negotiation skills and finally a successful conclusion. I have no hesitation in recommending Gail Escolme Employment Law and am grateful for all Gail’s help and support in my case.”
CB Endmoor – Contract dispute
CB Endmoor – Contract dispute
“Over the years we have built a positive working relationship with Gail, dealing with our own internal employment law issues and also by introducing Gail to our clients to assist them with their issues. We have always found her advice practical and efficient, delivered in a professional but understandable way. I personally have no hesitation in recommending Gail to other businesses”.
Phil Ellwood Managing Director Kendal – Lamont Pridmore
“We have worked very successfully with Gail Escolme over a number of years on personnel issues. We prefer to handle most of this work in house, but where extra external professional advice is thought necessary Gail is always our first stop. This has resulted in a very cost effective approach to personnel management, but with the confidence of an experienced professional behind the scenes. Undoubtedly this has led to a significant improvement in performance across our operating companies and hence profitability and business success”.
Jim Walker Chief Executive Lake District Estates, Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, Ullswater ‘Steamers’
Lake District Estates
“Gail has worked with us for several years as our employment law specialist. We appreciate her clear and practical advice which is given in plain English rather than in legal jargon. She is professional but very approachable and having her expertise on hand is very reassuring in the ever changing world of employment legislation.’
Julie Chapman, HR and Finance Director, Castle Green Hotel in Kendal.
Julie Chapman, Castle Green Hotel
“I was very happy with the service. Gail was both efficient and friendly and offered excellent advice. I would be more than happy to use her services again.”
CB – Settlement Agreement
“Thank you for easing my anxiety and providing extremely good advice that was much appreciated.”
DE – Employment dispute
“Fantastic, patient service. Would have no hesitation in recommending Gail, brilliant lawyer!”
AR – Settlement Agreement
“Gail completely understood the issues and took away the trauma associated with a redundancy. Many thanks.”
JC – Redundancy
“Gail was able to clearly explain the legal terms to me to enable my understanding. She calmly guided me through what I thought was going to be a scary process and made it seem pleasantly reasonable and easy.”
CF – Settlement Agreement
“Thank you for all your help and support in respect of this matter. Your professionalism and commercial advice were key to a swift and satisfactory conclusion. Being able to contact you out of hours on occasion was a breath of fresh air and your prompt response to emails and calls exceeded all expectations. An excellent, friendly and professional service – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you!”
CH – Settlement Agreement
“Many thanks for your help. You have been excellent and I am so glad I found you. you completely understood my situation and took away the stress of the scary process. You provided an excellenet service.”
SL – Settlement Agreement
“100% satisfied. would not hesitate to recommend Gail to anyone.”
RL – Holiday pay dispute
“Gail Escolme offers a service that is unparalleled. She always responds to everything promptly and with confidence, positivity and enthusiasm. This gives the client immediate reassurance which is invaluable. I would not hesitate to recommend Gail Escolme Legal to any individual or business.”
CS – Settlement Agreement
“Gail helped me clearly and calmly through a stressful situation. Thank you.”