Ref: SCO/155/08 08 October 2008

Free health and safety advice for central Scotland's migrant workers

Migrant workers in Central Scotland are urged to attend a free evening workshop in Alloa on Thursday 9 October 2008, which will advise workers of their legal rights in the workplace.

Together the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), Clackmannanshire Council, Unite Union and Citizens Advice Bureau (C.A.B.) have teamed up to remind Migrant workers that they play a vital role in Scotland's workforce and are protected by law on rights and conditions of work.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: Thursday 09 October 2008 with representatives from HSE, Clackmannanshire Council, Unite Union and C.A.B. 17:45 - 18:00 - Gean House, Tullibody Road, Alloa, FK10 2EL.

Ahead of the event Health and Safety Awareness Officer Val Holland said:

"Migrant workers in Scotland whether in full time or temporary casual employment are entitled to work in a safe and fair working environment - the law provides protection for overseas workers whether they are working here legally or not.

"The event "Your rights, Your Safety" which will be held on Thursday 9 October will provide workers with an informal opportunity to have their questions answered on many issues which affect their working lives.

"I strongly encourage migrant workers in Central Scotland and Fife to book a place at the event by calling 01259 452487."

Rose MacPherson from Clackmannanshire Council's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Service will also speak at the workshop event. Rosa commented:

"It is important that the correct information is available to the migrant workforce so that it is aware of its rights as employees in Britain and to know where to go for advice should the need arise. Migrant workers do not always know when to report a problem at work, or who it is appropriate to contact, therefore Clackmannanshire Council and the Association for Migrant Integration are delighted to be part of an event which promotes the health and safety rights of the migrant working community."

Topics covered will include:

• Your right to health and safety
• How the Citizens Advice Bureau can help
• Training in Employment Rights
• Employment Rights and the Unions.

The event is being held on Thursday 9 October 2008 from 18:00 – 20:30 at Gean House, Tullibody Road, Alloa, FK10 2EL. Refreshments will be provided.

Anyone wishing to attend must register in advance by contacting Rosa MacPherson, Clackmannanshire Council ESOL Service on 01259 452487.

Notes to Editors

1. Further information on the Health and Safety of Migrant workers in Scotland can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/migrantworkers/index.htm. This page is available in 14 languages.
2. HSE information and news releases can be accessed on the Internet www.hse.gov.uk/

Issued on behalf of HSE by COI News and PR Scotland

Press enquiries: Katy Jeffrey 0131 244 9062