UK employers are governed by a strict set of laws
UK employers are governed by a strict set of laws which govern the responsibilities and duties that are owed to their employees.
Although these laws are largely based upon the protection of employees, they are also subjected to certain duties and responsibilities which must not be breached.
With a high percentage of people in the UK currently in employment, the law in this area is subject to constant change and review aiming to maintain high working standards that do not infringe Human Rights and do not conflict with other legislation. This is why employment law often presents very complex issues and very often the help of an employment solicitor is needed in order to get things right.
Issues with employment law tend to fall under the following areas:
- Pay and Working Hours
Employees cannot be required to work more than 48 hours per week, unless they agree to do so. In addition they have the right to receive at least the national minimum wage.
Pay must technically be fair and equal so that two people doing the same job must be paid the same wage, however this area can become complicated as it is legal to pay two people who do the same job different wages if they are different ages.
- Discrimination and Equal Opportunities
All workers must be treated equally and given the same opportunities for promotion.
No one should be discriminated against or mistreated on the basis of personal factors such as disability, gender or ethnicity.
- Dismissals and Redundancy
Similar to equal opportunities, employers must not dismiss employees based on any factors outside of their performance or actions in the workplace. They are also prohibited from selecting employees for redundancy based on anything other than the needs of the business.
- Health and Safety
Employers are required to provide healthy and safe environments for their workers, and will be held responsible in most cases where an accident or injury has occurred in the workplace. Employees are also bound by Health and Safety legislation and can also be held accountable if found in breach.
Whether you are seeking to find out what your duties are as an employer, or you feel your rights have been breached as an employee; our Find an Employment Solicitor Service will get you in contact with an employment solicitor who has an excellent knowledge of the law in this area.
Most solicitors work on a ‘no win no fee’ basis, so if you are seeking to bring a claim against an employer this may be the best method for you.
