guidance / Advice and FAQs / Business operations

Employment Rights Act – reforms of zero hours and similar contracts

On the 2 June, Government published a consultation of reforms of zero hours and similar contracts, arguably the most consequential part of the Employment Rights legislation for the hospitality sector.

The consultation covers three key rights:

1
a right to guaranteed hours, where the number of hours offered reflects the hours worked by a qualifying worker during a reference period
2
a right to reasonable notice of shifts
3
a right to payment for shifts cancelled, curtailed, or moved at short notice

The consultation applies to employees and agency workers, but different rules may apply to each group depending on the circumstance.

The consultation closes on 25 August.

This guidance specifically covers proposals regarding reforms to zero hours and similar contracts. To view our guidance on proposals regarding notice of shifts and payment for shifts cancelled, curtailed or moved at short notice click here.