Unpaid Wages Leave Woman in Despair

Scarlet Hewett, a 29-year-old, finds herself burdened with thousands of pounds in debt after failing to receive her pay from SBS Group Ltd, a company led by Terry Ramsden, a millionaire and former Premier League club owner. Scarlet worked in the administrative department for approximately a year, only to be left unpaid for several months.

Legal Struggles and Court Victory

After enduring months without wages, Scarlet took SBS Group to court. In June 2023, a tribunal ordered the company to pay £6,500. However, Ramsden, who is believed to be residing in Dubai, has yet to settle the debt. The tribunal ruling cited unlawful deductions from her wages and highlighted the company's failure to respond to communications.

Health Issues Arise from Financial Stress

The ongoing battle for her unpaid wages has taken a severe toll on Scarlet's health. Diagnosed with fibromyalgia, she attributes her condition to the relentless stress of pursuing her owed money. Additionally, the financial strain has pushed her to the brink of homelessness, forcing her to attend another court hearing to protect her rented home.

Chaotic Work Environment Under Ramsden

Scarlet’s role at SBS Group involved managing a disorganized array of paperwork and online files, tasks that nearly led her to a nervous breakdown. Despite being hired primarily to answer phones, the lines often remained silent, adding to her frustration. Ramsden, known for his eccentric personality, preferred to be called "the extra terrestrial," a nickname he enforced among his staff.

Company's Failure to Honor Tribunal Decision

Despite the tribunal's clear ruling, SBS Group has not fulfilled its financial obligations to Scarlet. The company's last communication before the hearing was an email stating they would not attend, citing a lack of an HR team. They claimed financial difficulties as the reason for the unpaid wages, assuring that payments would be made once funds were available. However, these promises have yet to materialize.

Personal Toll and Ongoing Struggles

The repercussions of not being paid have left Scarlet in a precarious situation. She has accumulated significant debt and is battling to maintain her living situation. "What he’s done, if you could see me, I am a shell of the person I was," Scarlet shared. The experience has not only affected her financially but also left deep emotional scars, making it difficult for her to regain stability.

Seeking Accountability

Scarlet is determined to see Ramsden held responsible for his actions. "He needs to be held accountable, it’s just disgusting – he’s ruined my life," she stated emphatically. Her case sheds light on the challenges faced by employees when dealing with unresponsive and absentee employers, highlighting the need for stronger protections and enforcement.

Ramsden’s Current Status

As of now, Terry Ramsden remains elusive, with reports indicating that he resides in Dubai. His past includes significant investments in football, including a 30% stake in Chelsea FC and full ownership of Walsall FC. Despite his prominence, Ramsden's refusal to address his financial obligations has left former employees like Scarlet in dire circumstances.

Tribunal’s Validation of Scarlet’s Claims

The tribunal was convinced by Scarlet’s evidence, including her claims of severe financial anxiety and the company's non-responsiveness. The judgment document acknowledged the emotional and financial distress caused by the unpaid wages, emphasizing the impact on Scarlet’s well-being and livelihood.

Continuing the Fight for Justice

Scarlet’s journey is far from over as she continues to battle for her rightful earnings and to rebuild her life. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for workers and highlights the importance of seeking legal recourse when faced with employer misconduct. As she navigates this challenging period, Scarlet remains hopeful for a resolution that will allow her to move forward and recover from the hardships endured.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I wear compression gear when playing football?

Compression gear such as leggings or shorts can be beneficial to football players. They may increase blood flow, reduce fatigue and help speed recovery after a game or training. A tight-fitting material may also help to stabilize the muscles. The choice to wear compression equipment is personal. Comfort should be the main consideration when selecting this type of equipment.

What are the basic pieces of equipment required for playing football?

Basic football equipment includes a shirt or jersey, shorts and socks, shinguards, and football boots or cleats. Goalkeepers need additional gear like padded clothing and specialized gloves to protect them while diving and jumping. It's imperative for players to wear the correct attire to maintain safety and comply with the rules of the sport.

Why is it mandatory for footballers to wear shin guards?

Shin guards are a mandatory piece of equipment for footballers as they provide vital protection to the lower legs, which are vulnerable to injury during tackles and collisions. The shin guards protect the lower legs from injuries such as fractures and severe bruises. Football's governing authority enforces the use of shinguards in order to improve player safety.

Do I need to wear specific football clothing, or is it okay to wear other athletic gear?

While you can technically wear any athletic apparel to play football, the clothing designed for football enhances performance and comfort. Jerseys, shorts, and other clothing are often made of lightweight and breathable materials to allow optimal airflow. This reduces overheating, sweat, and heat. The fit of the jerseys and shorts is designed to provide a full range-of-motion, improving your agility and response time during play.

How do I ensure the proper fit for my football boots?

If you want to ensure that your football boot fits properly, it should not be too tight. It should allow some movement of the foot without causing the boot to slip. It is important to leave a small space between the toes on the boot's front and your thumb to avoid the toes being squeezed in during running or kicking. The width of the foot is also important. Choose a boot with a wide or narrow fit. Always try on boots with football socks and lace them up fully to assess the fit accurately.

Statistics

• Compression garments are used by about 50% of professional football players during training sessions for muscle support and injury prevention.
• Studies show that the proper use of shin guards can reduce the risk of injuries in football players by up to 70%.
• Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
• Research has indicated that around 60% of football-related ankle injuries could be mitigated with the correct choice of footwear.
• Over 90% of professional football players wear boots with synthetic uppers for better performance and durability.

External Links

• Footy.com

• Pro:Direct Soccer

• Adidas Football Cleats

• UKSoccerShop

• Nike Football

How To

How To Choose Comfortable and Function Football Apparel

When selecting football clothing, comfort and functionality are important. The fabric should be breathable and able to wick moisture away from the body to keep you cool and dry. It is important that the clothing fits properly so it doesn't restrict your movement or chafe when you play. If you live in a colder climate, choose materials that will keep you warm without compromising your mobility. The fit and design of the socks is important. They must secure the shinguards and provide sufficient cushioning without being excessively thick or restrictive. The customization of a football kit can inspire confidence and unity among the team.