Friday July 12 at 15:30, Clayton Street Newcastle

Despite being the focus of a court judgement, which ruled Workfare regulations unlawful, Poundland continue to use unpaid labour.

Like many chain stores, Poundland, have been given a massive public subsidy, in the form of unemployed people working for nothing but their benefits on a Workfare Scheme. Poundland have 'Work Experience' placements across 71 of their stores. 80% do not even get offered any kind of job with Poundland. Poundland's profits rose by 27% in the last financial year. They can afford to pay and keep on all their staff.

This Scheme is not only an attack on the unemployed - Poundland claim that their 'Work Experience' scheme is completely voluntary, but it involves Job Centre Plus, so those taking part can still have their benefits cut if they do not comply. The degree to which the scheme is genuinely voluntary is disputed as there are countless reports of lies and intimidation to get jobseekers to participate and after one week the scheme becomes mandatory. Dropping out of a 'Work Experience' placement can lead to being put on other schemes like Mandatory Work Activity. 'Work Experience' mostly involves stacking shelves for up to 30 hours a week for 8 weeks.

It is also a direct attack on Poundland’s workers and other workers - replacing paid jobs, holiday pay & ending temporary posts for students and others who rely on this type of work. We have heard complaints from Poundland staff who have had their hours cut, because of Workfare.