Enhancing Workforce Productivity through Support for Migrant Workers
Migrant workers offer numerous benefits to employers but also present unique challenges, such as language barriers and unfamiliarity with UK life. To address these issues, the Airsprung/GMB partnership implemented tailored English classes and learning agreements. Consequently, productivity improved by 20%, and team cohesion increased, with migrant employees becoming multi-skilled. Similarly, Riverfords supports its diverse workforce by providing welfare and integration services. Both case studies illustrate how proactive employer strategies can lead to a more productive and harmonious work environment.
Enhancing Workforce Productivity through Support for Migrant Workers
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Presentation Transcript
Employer Case Study Charlie Dorr (Equality South West)
Introduction Migrant Workers bring many benefits to employers but also some challenges – limited English, unfamiliarity of UK life Overcoming such challenges key to a productive workforce – beneficial for employers in long-run
Airsprung/GMB Partnership Background: Around 30% of employees are migrant workers- mainly from Poland Difficulties understanding instructions Tensions with UK-born employees Inability to take on certain training programmes or new job roles
Airsprung/GMB Partnership Learning Agreement: Autumn 2007: GMB Taster Classes February 2008: Learning Agreement Negotiated 6 Union Learning Reps including 3 Polish reps – Learning Needs Survey carried out
Airsprung/GMB Partnership English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL Provision): Delivered by Wiltshire College – tailored to work environment (e.g. questions related to work) Airsprung contributed £50 per head (£120 fee per employee) Literacy with I.T. organised for UK born workers
Airsprung/GMB Partnership Benefits: Productivity has increased by 20% over last 6 months Instructions do not take so long Multi-skilling of migrant employees – now employed in almost every job
Airsprung/GMB Partnership Benefits: Far fewer disciplinaries Team performance and bonuses have increased Greater knowledge of health & safety
Riverfords Background: Farming cooperative- grow and pack vegetable boxes About 40% of employees are migrant workers – 60% mainly local workers Majority employed through Workers Registration Scheme Some students employed through HOPS
Riverfords Have a Welfare Officer providing support to migrant workers as well as UK born workers including: Help completing WRS forms Registering with GPs, taking workers to hospital Help with getting accommodation Translation of staff surveys & newsletters Transport for HOPS students
Riverfords Benefits: Higher workers productivity Well integrated workforce Staff Loyalty: Majority of workers, including migrants have been with the company for 3-4 years
Concluding Remarks Just a quick snapshot Best to check resources available in local area: welcome packs, free english classes More information at: http://www.equalitysouthwest.org.uk/about-us/promoting-equality-for/migrant-workers/useful-websites/useful-websites-for-employers.html
Contact T: 01823 250 832 E: info@equalitysoutwest.org.uk W: www.equalitysouthwest.org.uk ESW website has contact details for all members of staff, Board Members and Network Chairs.