🇬🇧 Work Law in the UK – Employee Rights and Legal Contracts (2025)
⚖️ Overview
UK labour law guarantees strong protection for employees, covering wages, working hours, holidays, and protection against unfair dismissal.
Key legislation includes:
- Employment Rights Act 1996
- Equality Act 2010
- National Minimum Wage Regulations 2024
🧾 Employment Types
- Full-time Contract – 35–40 hours/week with full benefits.
- Part-time Contract – same legal rights proportionally.
- Zero-hour / Temporary Contract – flexible hours, optional shifts.
- Self-employed / Freelance – independent, handles own taxes.
💰 Minimum Wage (April 2025)
| Age Group | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| 21+ | £11.44 |
| 18–20 | £8.60 |
| 16–17 | £6.40 |
| Apprentices | £6.40 |
🕒 Working Hours and Holidays
- Max 48 hours per week (opt-out available).
- At least 1 rest day every 7 days.
- 28 days of paid annual leave (full-time).
🩺 Special Leave
- Sick Pay: up to 28 weeks.
- Maternity Leave: up to 52 weeks.
- Paternity Leave: up to 2 weeks.
🚫 Dismissal and Protection
- Dismissal must be fair and justified.
- Employees can claim Unfair Dismissal after 2 years.
- Remedies include reinstatement or compensation.
⚖️ Equality and Non-Discrimination
Protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 include:
gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, and marital status.
🧭 Support Agencies
Gov.uk: official employment law resources.
ACAS: dispute resolution and advice.
Citizens Advice: free legal guidance.