We have set out below some guidance on the new regulations for organisations that use zero-hours contracts to engage staff.
A zero-hours contract is a term used to describe types of casual agreements between an employer and their staff. Generally, under a zero hours contract employees are not guaranteed any work and are paid only as and when they work.
Individuals working under zero-hours contracts are entitled to the national minimum wage, paid annual leave, rest breaks and protection from discrimination. Depending on whether they are an employee or not, they may also be entitled to statutory employment rights such as the right not to be unfairly dismissed.
Zero hours contracts are frequently used when there is a requirement for a flexible workforce; for example, where workers are required at short notice or the level of work is uncertain. In schools, they might be used for supply teachers or where a “bank” of administration workers or midday supervisors is used.
Zero hours contracts are not likely to be appropriate when an individual carries out work for an organisation on a more regular basis.
Exclusivity clauses have been used in zero hours contracts to prevent or limit a worker’s ability to work elsewhere. These types of clauses were considered to be unfair as they prevented those engaged under zero-hours contracts from earning money from another employer despite there being no guarantee of any wages being paid to them.
In May 2015 legislation was introduced making exclusivity clauses contained in zero hours contracts unenforceable where they prevented a worker from:
The Regulations, which came into force on 11 January 2016, provide the following new rights for those working under zero-hours contracts who have failed to comply with an exclusivity clause in their contract:
There is no guidance in the Regulations as to what amounts to a detriment but it is likely that the following types of treatment could be considered to be detrimental, depending on the circumstances (this is not an exhaustive list):
The Regulations make a distinction between employees and workers. Only those classed as employees are able to make a claim for unfair dismissal whereas workers, which has a wider definition, are able to make a claim for detriment.
In light of these changes, we would suggest organisations consider the following:
If you would like any further advice on any aspect of employment law, please contact a member of our Employment & HR team on 01332 226 149 for a confidential chat.
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