In February, the Department for Business and Trade released a list of over 500 employers that have been found to be illegally paying their staff below the minimum wage. It was found that over 172,000 employees lost out on a combined £16 million, that employers have since been ordered to repay.
More than 2,600 employees missed out on over £500 each, 564 missed out on between £1000-£5000, and a shocking 21 employees were shortchanged by over £5000 each.
The list of employers included some major name brands, including easyJet and Greggs and Estee Lauder. The ‘name and shame’ initiative is a move by the Government to send a clear message to employers that they will face enforcement measures if they are found to be underpaying their employees. Releasing the list to the public also acts as a further deterrent, as companies fear for loss of business when being revealed to underpay their employees.
“Employees deserve to get paid properly for the hard work they put in,” said Kevin Hollinrake, minister for enterprise, markets and small business.
“While the majority of businesses already do the right thing and pay their staff what they are owed, today’s announcement sends a message to the minority who aren’t – that there are repercussions to undercutting hard work from their staff.”
If you believe your employer hasn’t been paying you the wages you’re legally entitled to, you should reach out for independent advice as soon as possible, to ensure that you receive the missed pay that you are entitled to.
Our employment lawyers are on hand to assist you if you believe you have not been paid correctly. Call us on 0161 330 6821 or email bromleys@bromleys.co.uk to speak to one of our team.