The myths

The 'tackle the myth' campaign tackles some of the most commonly held misconceptions about migrant workers. Here you'll find more information about each of the myths and why they are nothing more than hot air.

As each of the 5 posters are released, we'll include information here to support the campaign so you can find out what the realities are about migrant workers and their impact on the local and national economy.

The Myth : Migrants get everything from the state

The Truth : They don't. The main reason most people from Eastern and Central Europe have for coming to the UK is to work - they get no extra benefits.

Data shows that migrants come to the UK to work, not to claim benefits. 99 per cent of applications for National Insurance numbers made by new migrants from May 2004 to September 2005 were for employment purposes.

There is no discernible statistical evidence that migrants from accession countries contribute to a rise in claims for benefits. Between May 2004 and September 2005 only 4 per cent were allowed to claim Income support and Job Seekers Allowance benefits.

Migrants are only able to claim income related benefits once they have worked legally in the UK for a full year.

For more information about Migrant Workers and their impact on the local and national economy visit Communities and Local Government.