UK care homes: Investigation exposes potential abuse in visa sponsorship system

A Daily Mail investigation has uncovered disturbing practices within the UK care sector, raising serious questions about patient safety and potential exploitation.
The report alleges that unqualified migrants, often lacking sufficient English language skills, are being employed to care for vulnerable individuals due to critical staff shortages.
The investigation exposes a network of individuals capitalizing on this situation by charging exorbitant fees – up to £20,000 – to help migrants secure work visas.
At the center of these allegations is Philip Oyewale, a pastor at the Pentecost Baptist Church in Liverpool. Despite his company’s suspension from the sponsorship program due to suspected illegal activity, Mr. Oyewale is accused of offering visa facilitation services for £9,000.
This alleged practice of employing unqualified caregivers raises significant concerns about the safety and well-being of vulnerable patients. The lack of proper training and potential language barriers pose potential risks to those requiring care.
In response to these revelations, campaigners are urging the Home Office to implement stricter vetting procedures for foreign workers and address loopholes within the visa sponsorship system.
Speaking with Daily Mail, Nadra Ahmed, chairman of the National Care Association, said she knew of extensive abuse of the system since visa rules were relaxed. ‘We’re seeing agencies sprouting up that are just bringing people in to take money off them,’ she said.
The authorities are currently investigating the allegations against Mr. Oyewale and his company. This case highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive solution that addresses the staffing crisis in the care sector while ensuring the safety and ethical treatment of both patients and migrant workers.