They're controversial, they're common, and they're not going anywhere soon.
What exactly is a Zero-Hours Contract?
A Zero-Hours Contract means your employer doesn't guarantee you a minimum number of working hours each week, even though you're employed.
These contracts are really common in industries like retail, food service, hospitality, and social care. They're also quite controversial, with some groups calling them unfair.
But they're a reality of today's job market, so knowing how to navigate them is key!
What Are the Pros and Cons of a Zero Hours Contract?
Pros
Flexibility. Especially for students with busy schedules and lots of demands on their time. If you’re asked to work a shift that conflicts with your class schedule, you can simply refuse it.
Possibility that a zero hours contract could lead to a fixed hours or permanent role, or even lay the groundwork for a full time job when you graduate. This is never a guarantee, but working a zero hours contract as a student can be a good way to get your foot in the door.
As a student, any work experience is a positive thing. Your zero hours contract job will enhance your skills, add to your CV, and give you something to talk about in future job interviews.
Cons
Your income is not guaranteed. This can be very stressful, since money is often tight for students. And if you are not actually given any working hours (or are given very few), you won’t enjoy those skill-enhancing and CV-building benefits – above.
Zero hours contract workers also don’t have access to many of the benefits that permanently contracted employees do. For example, redundancy pay if you’re laid off, your employer does not have to give you notice before ending your employment, and you will not be eligible to join your employer’s pension scheme.
These can also be taxing on your social life and work-life balance. Yes, you can turn down shifts you don’t want, but if you do this too often your employer may stop asking you. You may find yourself missing social events or struggling to plan your social life because of your unpredictable work pattern.
How to Make Zero Hours Contracts Work for You
The reality is that, as a student looking for part-time work, you’re very likely to encounter zero hours contracts. Here are a few ways you can make them work for you.
Know Your Rights
Contrary to popular belief, zero hours workers do have some rights. As a zero hours contract worker, you are entitled to:
- The national minimum wage for your age group
- Holiday pay based on the hours you work
- Pay if you’re asked to be “on call”
- Rest breaks at work and between working days or shifts
- Statutory sick pay (with conditions)
- Freedom from bullying, harassment, or unfair treatment based on protected characteristics.
For further information on zero-hours contracts or to discuss any individual cases with an Adviser please contact ensa.advice@napier.ac.uk / 0131 229 8791 to arrange an Advice appointment