5 Key UK Employment Rights You Must Know (Check Your Contract!)
Working in the UK? Your employment contract holds crucial rights that protect you—but many employees don’t fully understand them. Whether you’re new to the workforce or reviewing your terms, here are 5 essential rights you’ll find (or should find) in your UK employment contract.
1. Right to a Written Contract
By law, your employer must provide a written statement of employment particulars (or a contract) on or before your first day. This document must include:
- Job title, salary, and working hours
- Start date and notice periods
- Pension and disciplinary procedures (within 2 months)
🚨 Red Flag: No written contract? Your employer is breaking the law—request one immediately.
2. Right to Notice Periods
Your contract should specify how much notice you and your employer must give to end employment. If it doesn’t, statutory minimums apply:
- 1 week if employed 1 month–2 years
- 1 week per year after 2 years (max 12 weeks)
- No notice required in the first month unless stated.
💡 Tip: Some roles offer longer notice periods (e.g., 1–3 months)—check your contract!
3. Right to Sick Pay
You’re entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)—£116.75/week (2024 rate) for up to 28 weeks if eligible. Some employers offer enhanced sick pay (e.g., full salary for a period).
📌 Pro Tip: Report sickness as per company policy to qualify.
4. Right to Annual Leave
All UK workers get 5.6 weeks (28 days) paid leave/year, including bank holidays. Part-timers receive leave pro rata.
🔎 Check For:
- Enhanced leave (e.g., extra days after 5 years)
- Buy/sell schemes (some companies allow this)
5. Right to Rest Breaks
- 20-minute break if working over 6 hours/day
- 11 hours rest between shifts (e.g., finish at 10 PM → next start no earlier than 9 AM)
- 24-hour weekly break (e.g., weekends for Mon–Fri workers)
⚠️ Warning: Employers cannot force you to skip breaks—report violations.
What If Your Contract Violates These Rights?
- Politely raise it with HR/manager.
- Seek advice from ACAS or Citizens Advice if unresolved.
Final Thoughts
Always read your contract carefully—knowing your rights prevents exploitation. Stay tuned for a deep dive into UK contract red flags in my next post!
📢 Have questions? Drop them below—I’ll help!