Keele Research Repository

Whilst studies have already focused on the inflow of labour migrants from Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries to the UK, most have centred on the experiences of younger migrants. Less attention has been paid to the motivations, experiences and policy impacts of ‘mature’ CEE labour migrants. This paper draws on a recent study in North-West England to highlight how structural factors and individual agency intersect in different ways for such groups. In particular, the analysis provides new insights into mature migrants' motivations, aspirations and expectations on decisions to come to or remain in the UK and how such issues inter-relate with new policies and politics of ‘managed migration’ and contemporary processes of welfare reform and labour-market participation.