The number of migrant workers reporting exploitation on UK farms surged in 2024, with nearly 700 seasonal laborers seeking help from the Worker Support Centre (WSC), up from just over 400 in 2023. Complaints ranged from bullying and underpayment to poor living conditions, sparking renewed calls for stronger protections for foreign farmworkers.
One former fruit picker likened the treatment of migrants to modern slavery, urging the UK government to take immediate action. The government responded by stating that it takes “decisive action” against abusive farm practices and has conducted inspections across hundreds of farms.
Among those speaking out is Bolivian farmworker Julia Quecano Casimiro, who is suing Haygrove, a major UK farm business, over allegations of unfair dismissal, discrimination, and wage theft. The Home Office has acknowledged that she may have been a victim of modern slavery. However, Haygrove has denied wrongdoing, calling her claims “misleading” and citing external audits confirming compliance with labor laws.
The issue of recruitment fees also remains a concern. A nationwide investigation is underway after Indonesian workers alleged they were illegally charged fees to secure UK farm jobs. Haygrove, which employed 20 of these workers, has distanced itself from the allegations, stating that such fees violate its policies.
Despite government claims that 91% of surveyed farmworkers reported positive experiences, the WSC says worker complaints are increasing. The charity handled 158 cases in one month alone last summer and referred 19 major cases to authorities, mostly involving workers from Central Asia.
Advocates are calling for a full review of the UK’s seasonal agricultural worker scheme, warning that without stronger safeguards, exploitation will continue. As the UK prepares to issue 45,000 seasonal farm visas in 2025, the debate over migrant labor rights is set to intensify.