An NHS trust in Salford has confirmed it is looking into allegations that a care firm ‘exploited’ migrant workers. Dementia Care and Support at Home was accused last week of exploiting staff with poor working conditions and threats that workers could ‘go back to their country’ if they were unhappy. These allegations were made by an ex-worker at the firm, Idris Kauji, who claimed he was asked to work for up to 20 hours per month unpaid. Salford City Unison also claimed it had received reports from staff at the firm about threats to go back to their countries. The company denied the claims, but apologised to any staff members who felt they had been treated this way. The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands the company has a contract with the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust to provide care services in the city. The Trust was asked if it is aware of the claims, and if so what action it had taken. Charlotte Bailey, chief officer at Salford Care Organisation – which is part of the Northern Care Alliance – said: “We are in regular contact with the provider to fully understand the issues raised and to provide support in identifying any positive practice improvements that may be necessary. “This should not affect the service that service users receive while this work is undertaken.” A representative from Dementia Care and Support at Home said: “We note the comments made by Northern Care Alliance and Salford Care Organisation and we appreciate all the support and help provided, we have also made progress with Unison, Northern Care Alliance and Salford Care Organisation. “We will ensure that our service users are not affected following the work which is being carried out.” Salford council told the care firm last week to make improvements within a clear timescale, or face losing support for its NHS contract.
