An ITN investigation into accommodation standards in tied-agricultural worker accommodation broadcast on Thursday 5th September, found seasonal agricultural workers housed in conditions including damp, mouldy, poorly maintained and cramped caravans.
It explored the scale of the problem and challenged the charges for such accommodation, set by Government, given the quality, market rates and nature of the caravans.
It put findings to the First Minister of Scotland and Executive Director of the Worker Support Centre (WSC), both of whom said action needed to be taken.
Caroline Robinson, WSC Executive Director said:
“It is a scandal..multiple workers report issues to us of rat infestations, mould, damp, lack of security and yet those workers are paying high rates for that accommodation which is something that I don’t think many people are that aware of.”
The WSC has been investigating the oversight of temporary worker accommodation and has found that there are significant gaps in legislation and enforcement regimes. To address these gaps WSC is calling for:
- New housing standards for temporary caravans.
- Inspection and enforcement of such standards; and
- Clarification of workers’ status in law with respect to their housing.