Some uncertainty lays in the future of unpaid work trials, as the SNP battle for them to be banned.
The businesses operating these kinds of trials are being blasted for exploiting the candidates for free labour, even accused of using ‘work trials’ to cover their own staff annual leave and absences.
The Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) director of policy Tom Hadley says:
“Hiring procedures are about testing somebody’s ability to do the job. However, there’s a difference between testing someone’s skills in an assessment setting and asking them to work for free.” he continues – “Testing waiters’ silver service skills in a simulated restaurant environment is an example that’s absolutely legitimate. But as soon as you have candidates working in a real business setting alongside paid employees, they deserve to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage.”
The general consensus by supporters is that the only solution is a blanket ban.
Source:
https://www.rec.uk.com/news-and-policy/press-releases/rec-supports-call-for-unpaid-shifts-to-be-made-illegal
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-43408472
