Justice Eludes Kerala’s Migrant Carers Targeted by UK Visa Scams

Migrant carers from Kerala have become victims of scams related to UK visa sponsorships, particularly involving Alchita Care and agent Henry Poulos. Many have lost life savings and struggle with financial hardships after being promised stable jobs that never materialized. As investigations proceed, justice remains elusive for these exploited workers, highlighting the need for urgent reforms in the care recruitment sector.

Migrant carers from Kerala, India, face significant challenges in the UK due to alleged visa scams. Arun George, who saved £15,000 to secure a care job for his wife via Alchita Care, found himself scammed when promised work did not materialize. He claims they were forced into unpaid training with only three days of actual work, leading to their return to India. George is one among hundreds exploited by recruiters and care homes, with many losing hope for justice.

Alchita Care, which lost its sponsorship license from the Home Office last year, has not responded to inquiries about the alleged scams. Several workers, like George and Sridevi, who also paid £15,000 for sponsorship and incurred further travel expenses, report severe financial hardships in the UK, often relying on charity for sustenance. Promises of stable work turned into precarious situations, with many working unpaid hours or receiving insufficient wages.

The exploitation of migrant workers intensified when care workers were added to the UK’s shortage occupation list during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased recruitment from abroad. Local leaders, like Cambridge’s Mayor Baiju Thittala, have noted the difficulties victims face in pursuing justice due to complicated jurisdiction issues and the high cost of legal representation.

In Kothamangalam, around 30 individuals have collectively lost millions seeking care visas, blaming one agent, Henry Poulos, for defrauding them. Complaints to local authorities have led to investigations and a crackdown on Poulos, but many victims still find themselves in dire financial straits. Some families took loans at high-interest rates, further complicating their ability to seek legal recourse.

The previous UK government acknowledged the exploitative practices targeting care workers, which led to stricter regulations in 2024 aimed at protecting these employees. The Home Office has placed additional restrictions on sponsorship practices, including prohibiting cost pass-throughs to employees. Law enforcement in Kerala is actively investigating these scams; however, for many affected individuals, securing justice remains an ongoing struggle without resolution.

In conclusion, migrant carers from Kerala have faced exploitation through numerous scams tied to UK visa sponsorships, notably involving Alchita Care and agent Henry Poulos. Despite acknowledgment of these issues by UK authorities, many victims still struggle with financial losses and lack access to legal justice. As investigations continue in India, the plight of these workers highlights the urgent need for reforms and protections in the recruitment process for foreign care workers.

Original Source: www.bbc.com