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"Expenses-only engagements are illegal" Options · View
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Posted: Wednesday, November 25, 2009 4:53:00 PM
Rank: PB Member
Last week, after several anxious months, BECTU won a case showing that working for free/expenses only is illegal, even if the "job" was advertised as such. The full story is here. As well as establishing her entitlement to the national minimum wage for the duration of the job, the tribunal also ordered that she should be paid holiday on top.

I'm in awe of Nicola's determination to see this through, particularly since it must have been quite an uncomfortable few months for her. She's done something important for the whole freelance community, and it must have taken guts. Thank you, Nicola.
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Posted: Wednesday, November 25, 2009 6:10:05 PM
Rank: PB Member
I think what she has done is brilliant - however I wouldn't hold your breath on it changing anything.
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Posted: Wednesday, November 25, 2009 6:32:41 PM
Rank: PB Member
I agree,but it is certainly a great first step so well done!
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Posted: Wednesday, November 25, 2009 6:47:55 PM
Rank: PB Member
Nothing will change overnight Oliver, but this is an important landmark. This case establishes several important principles - that much of the "work experience" undertaken by new entrants to our industries is actually illegal, a worker cannot waive his or her right to the minimum wage and all workers are entitled to paid holiday. It makes it a lot easier to argue the essential legal points when there is a clear case on the record, and it will be much harder for employers (and university lecturers!) to argue that working for free is the only way to get into this industry. It isn't because it's illegal. It will certainly alarm the people who persist in trying to further their careers using the unpaid labour of others.

BECTU is currently preparing another case, against an employer called Bobby Syed of EMMA. This guy has been using unpaid labour for several years, and the union is very keen to hear - in complete confidence - from other people who worked there. If you know of anyone, please do get in touch with me and I'll pass on your details.

Coincidentally there's a report on the BBC website about unpaid internships, and it's generating quite a healthy debate.


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