Hiring Christmas Workers? Here’s What You Need To Know About The Zero Hours Legislation Changes

As of December 17^th 2018, the government will enforce new legislation regarding workers on zero-hour contracts, agency workers, and ‘gig economy’ workers to ensure they are better protected by a new package of government reforms.

Under new legislation, employers must inform their employees of their rights, in plain English, from their first day on the job, including their eligibility for paid and sick leave.

New rules will increase the maximum employment tribunal fines for employers demonstrated to have shown malice, spite or gross oversight from £5,000 to £20,000. New legislation will also outlaw the ability for employers to pay agency staff less than their permanent employees as well as ensuring that that companies calculate holiday pay based on 52 weeks, as opposed to 12 weeks, so people in seasonal job roles get the paid time off they are entitled to.

Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “Today’s largest upgrade in workers’ rights in over a generation is a key part of building a labour market that continues to reward people for hard work, that celebrates good employers and is boosting productivity and earning potential across the UK.”

As our client, we would like to bring this to your attention due to the potential effect it could have on a business.

If you require any help in doing so or would like more information on what these changes could mean to your business, please do not hesitate to contact us.