Research
Researchers at the Work Rights Centre ensure the charity and the people we’re trying to influence, have the best possible evidence to back-up their decisions. Using a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods, our researchers:
- Analyse charity frontline data, to reveal our clients' profile, issues, and outcomes.
- Monitor national statistics pertaining to the immigration and employment justice system, to identify patterns and risks.
- Contribute to publications that examine the systemic roots of injustice, and make recommendations for policy reforms.
Latest research

The forgotten third: Migrant workers' views on improving conditions in England's adult social care sector
Finding that migrant care workers are suffering persistent employment rights breaches, but are dissuaded from reporting, we present recommendations for sector-level and immigration reform.
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Separated: The Ukraine Schemes changes and their impact on Ukrainian families
Our latest research finds Ukraine Scheme visa changes kept families apart, left children stranded in Ukraine without their parents, and Ukrainians in the UK struggling with mental health.
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The systemic drivers of migrant worker exploitation in the UK
We identify the work-sponsorship system adopted after Brexit, combined with weak labour enforcement, as the driving force behind increasing reports of migrant worker exploitation in Britain.
Read moreRead moreOur approach to research
Good research can add huge value to policy and public debate. Whether it is by analysing national statistics to reveal systemic inequalities, giving voice to under-represented groups, or putting government policies into perspective, research is key to making policy initiatives well-informed, nuanced, and inclusive.
Work Rights Centre researchers are committed to ensuring that our publications are:
- Robust. We use high-quality data sources and transparent methodologies, and welcome critical peer review.
- Grounded in lived experience. We involve charity beneficiaries in every way possible, and cover their stories with nuance and respect.
- Accessible. We write for everyone, from journalists and policy professionals, to regular members of the public with a real interest in migration and employment justice.
Contact us
Get in touch to discuss our research or request to join our advisory board