The report revealed that 146 UK businesses were handed penalties of between £10,000 and £280,000 between July and September 2025.
The list itself is published by the Home Office and highlights employers who have broken right-to-work rules.
It typically includes businesses that haven’t paid their fines within 28 days after exhausting any appeals, or those that have received repeat penalties.
According to the Home Office, employers can face unlimited fines and up to five years in prison if they don’t carry out proper identity and right-to-work checks.
Bilash, a well-reviewed Indian restaurant in Oxfordshire, received the biggest fine at £280,000 for breaking these right-to-work rules.
According to Caredemy, this forms part of a major crackdown on illegal working in the UK, where fines for employers are tripled to up to £45,000 per illegal worker.
“This is a clear reminder for food businesses to make sure they are carrying out the proper right-to-work checks and keeping a close eye on staff hours, especially when visa limits are in place,” says a Caredemy spokesperson.
“These checks need to be done carefully and regularly so things don’t slip through the cracks, or they can land themselves a hefty fine.
“We know the pressure facing food businesses, as many are struggling to recruit and retain staff at the moment. But this mustn’t lead to shortcuts or decisions that break the rules.”
Caredemy advises that for owners and managers who often operate in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, it is essential that they are fully trained and confident in current guidance requirements.
“Food businesses should have systems in place to track documents and working hours and make sure managers understand what to look out for,” it adds.
“When it comes down to it, this is not just about staying within the law; it’s about protecting staff and ensuring customers are served safely and responsibly.”