Support for Displaced
International Care Workers in
South East London
If you’re an overseas care worker whose employer has lost their sponsorship licence, you are not alone — and we are here to help.
The Health & Care Jobs Hub leads
the International Recruitment Project in South East London, funded by
the Department of Health and Social Care.
We have two main aims:
- To support displaced care workers in finding new jobs with approved care providers
- To help care providers connect with displaced workers, offering financial onboarding support and advice on compliance and good practice
We understand this is a stressful and
uncertain time. That’s why we offer practical advice, job search help,
employability workshops, and guidance about your options. It’s important to act
quickly while your visa remains valid.
Immigration Rule Changes – 9th April 2025
The UK government has announced important changes affecting adult social care workers:
-
New minimum payment rates:
- New sponsored care workers must be paid at least £12.82 per hour (or £25,000 a year)
- Existing sponsored workers must be paid at least £12.21 per hour
-
Priority for workers already in the UK: Employers must first try to recruit displaced care workers in the UK before hiring from overseas
-
Increased sponsorship fees:
- Certificate of
Sponsorship (CoS):
Rising from £239 to £525
- Other fees will
increase too
- Certificate of
Sponsorship (CoS):
Rising from £239 to £525
Support for Displaced Care Workers
-
Employment & Job Search Support
We will connect you with South East London care providers recruiting displaced workers and signpost you to helpful job boards and sponsor lists -
CV, Applications & Employability Workshops
While we don’t offer one-to-one CV support, we run free employability masterclasses covering CV writing, applications, and interview preparation -
Pastoral Support
For personal issues such as housing, finances or health, please contact the NRPF & Resettlement Team (Royal Borough of Greenwich Council) at:
nilrecourse@royalgreenwich.gov.uk -
Mental Health & Wellbeing Resources
Support for mental health and wellbeing is available through:
· Good Thinking London: Digital mental health & wellbeing support for people
· Live Well Advice: Tips and guidance to help you stay healthy and well
· Samaritans: Call 116 123 free, any time
-
Extra SupportWe have put together some helpful links below:· Find a GP near You: Use this postcode checker to locate your nearest GP· Prescription Information: Get details about how to manage and collect your prescriptions· Pharmacy Information: Find a pharmacy close to you· Sexual Health Services: Advice and services to support your sexual health· Food Bank: Use this resource to find your nearest Food Bank
Finding a New Sponsor
-
Care Visa Sponsor Database: List of licensed providers near you
-
Indeed.com: A popular platform with a wide range of job listings, including care worker positions. Search for “care jobs with sponsorship” near you.
-
NHS Jobs: Focuses on jobs within the National Health Service (NHS)
-
Care Home UK: Specifically dedicated to care home jobs
-
Care UK: Offers care home vacancies
-
HealthJobsUK: Another specialised platform for healthcare roles
-
Check local care providers in your area: Use the Care Quality Commission (CQC) website to search for registered care providers by postcode, town, or service type. You can then contact the provider directly to ask if they are currently recruiting and offering sponsorship.
Modern Slavery
Had your wages withheld, received pay below National Living Wage, or were underpaid for hours worked
Worked excessively long hours
Were forced to pay excessive fees
Received threats to your immigration status if you refuse to work extra hours
Experienced harassment or violence
If you are a victim of labour exploitation, please
contact:
📞 Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700
📞 Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111
📞 Care Quality Commission (CQC): 03000 616161
📞 Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA): 0800 432 0804
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my employer’s sponsor licence is
revoked?
Can I keep working while looking for a new
sponsor?
Can you help with CVs and applications?
What should I ask a new employer before accepting a job?
1) Will you sponsor my Skilled Worker visa?
2) What is the salary and benefits package?
3) Is relocation or accommodation support offered?
4) Will I need to drive and is transport provided?
5) Are training and progression opportunities available?
6) Are your services CQC-registered?
Can my employer take money from my final
wages?
Can my family stay in the UK?
What’s an eVisa and do I need one?
How can I stay safe when applying for jobs?
- Only apply to CQC-registered providers
- Check for a written contract and Skilled Worker sponsorship certificate
- To check if your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is valid, ensure your employer is on the official list of licensed sponsors and that your CoS is marked as "Assigned" and used within 3 months
- Always verify that your job details match the certificate, and avoid employers who ask you to pay for sponsorship, as this is illegal
- Confirm the job is on the Skilled Worker visa list
11. Can I switch to a different care or health job?
Where can I get free legal or visa advice?
💻 citizensadvice.org.uk
📞 Southwark Law Centre
📞 Lewisham Refugee & Migrant Network (LRMN)
📞 ACAS (employment advice): 0300 123 1100
📧nilrecourse@royalgreenwich.gov.uk