In Scotland specifically, it needs to coordinate closely with existing bodies – including Police Scotland, the Care Inspectorate, Agricultural Wages Enforcement, the Fair Work Convention – rather than building enforcement from scratch.
The briefing sets out the principles we believe the FWA should follow:
- Resourced: Proactive inspections and a visible presence will deter abuse.
- Trusted: Workers need clear, anonymous ways to report abuse, and a guarantee that enforcement is separate from immigration control.
- Accountable: Transparency builds confidence. Enforcement data should be public, and action taken should be reported to all concerned.
- Supportive: The FWA must work closely with unions, charities and worker support organisations.
- Accessible: When a worker first asks for help, guide them straight to the right support.
- Coordinated: Scotland needs strong country-level coordination – with all agencies working together.
- Complementary: The FWA should build on the Fair Work Convention’s existing framework and Fair Work First requirements.