Originally Posted by
pennybarry
Believe me or not guys that there are many employers here who are trying to take an advantage with applicants.
Two weeks ago, I applied a work in the Kitchen. I found it very hard so it wasn’t bother me if my application is unsuccessful.
I will post my story but I will not give full details for my security and their reputations.
Apologize for that.
I sent a recorded/register letter by post to the employer as per CAB advise.
I sent email to the manager about the actions I have done.
To all members here, I wish this will help us avoid this type of problem in the UK.
Here is my letter content.
The Manager
December 09, 2009
Dear Sir/Madam:
I was advised by ACAS to write you and inform you have a grievance. It is about my 10 hours worked done last December 5, 2009 from 12:00 – 10:00 in the evening.
On December 2, 2009, I have applied in your office for a kitchen work. I rang Miss XXX on the same date and that same date, I was advised to hand my CV and I filled up application forms in your office. Then I received a call from Miss XXX that I will have my trial on the saturday that will start 12:00.
You were not given me any information in writing about pay, the number of hours required, or breaks. I asked Miss xxxx about my break and she verbally said that I could have a 30 minutes paid break.
On Monday, December 7, 2009, at around 17:00 p.m., I received a call from Miss XXX and informed me that I was not successful with the job. Then I asked her when can I get my payment and she said “ I didn’t promise you to get paid”. I was shocked because I understood that I will get paid. If she did tell me beforehand, I will only work for 4 hours because 10 hours is too long for an unpaid trial. I searched the web about work trial scheme in the UK and found out that employers should make an arrangement with Jobcentreplus beforehand about this. And Work Trial is completely a volunteer work.
On Wednesday (today), I went to Jobcentreplus and asked if there was an arrangement happened between them and XXXX. Miss XXXX from Jobcentreplus said, there was no arrangement and she explained to me that there should have an arrangement and they will visit XXXXX before my work Trial. So, I went to CAB and they tried their best to help me.
I would like to be paid the minimum wage of £5.80 for the time worked including the 30 minute break. (£58.00) as soon as possible
Please reply in writing explaining why I have not been paid.
here is my email to the manager.
Dear Miss XXX,
I have made my tracking online at Royal Mail regarding my letter posted yesterday. Here is the status:
Item XXXXXXX and is being progressed through our network for delivery.
Miss XXX, I understand your command responsibility, but please next time, if you hire applicants, please follow Jobcentreplus rules.
I'll send you a copy in your email a copy of my letter.
Goodluck to your career.
I got reply today:
Dear penny
Thank you for your e-mail.
I have already responded to the query we received from the CAB by posting you a letter yesterday. The CAB advised that we should respond by letter, so I would be grateful if you could please await to receive this. My letter should reach you today, with payment for the trial shift you worked last Saturday.
i would be grateful if you could please confirm receipt of this payment.
I trust you will be satisfied with this response and I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Best wishes for your future career.
She was barely 5ft tall ... yet she never allowed ANYONE (regardless of their stature or position) to take advantage of her. 
And she'd have been proud of your ability to stand up for your rights!
