Employee rights

Earnings

Find out what your employment contract must include, and how to make sure your rights are properly protected.

Transcript

Your employment contract should set out your pay, working hours, holiday allowance, sick pay, work location and notice period. Always read your employment contract carefully before signing. Check the essentials. This includes your pay. Make sure your salary and any overtime or bonuses are clearly stated. Look closely at your hours and holidays.

If you’re full-time, you’re entitled by law to 28 days’ holiday a year, including bank holidays. Take note of your notice period so you know what’s expected if you or your employer end the contract. You also have the right to request flexible working from day one of your employment. This could mean adjusting your hours or working partly from home, depending on what’s possible in your role.

Flexible working might help lift your earnings by reducing travel or childcare costs. If something doesn’t look right or you’re unsure about your rights, your first step should be to speak to your line manager or HR team. They’re there to support you. If issues remain unresolved, you can seek independent advice. One option is ACAS, the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service. It’s a free, confidential, government-funded service that helps both employees and employers.

Remember, you’re not alone. You have rights at work, and there are people and services to support you in resolving any concerns.

Docs, Links & Resources

ACAS

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