Thursday, 8 August 2013

Why Zero Hours Contracts Are Very Controversial


Imagine that your employer asks you to work for their company without specifying the actual length of time you’ll need to fulfil working. You could go to work at any time you wish and work the number of hours you choose. However, companies could bind you to respond if they need your help at any time during the day, even beyond your work hours.


Zero hours contracts became famous with the UK workforce because it allows employees more freedom in managing their schedule and also allowing them higher pay for more hours. However, it is not always as good as it sounds.

Sports Direct, a zero-hours contractor itself, faces a legalaction from one of its former employees. The employee expressed that the lack of financial security because the zero hours guaranteed nothing about work and income made it problematic for her as she suffered panic attacks.

According to recent statistics, zero hours contracts make up 4% of the UK workforce. Vince Cable even warned the entire UK about the issues surrounding zero hours claims.

He said that it was a way for employers to escape their responsibility to their employees. It also tips the balance to the employer.

There had been cases were managers who believe you have not done well with your work could easily slash off your work hours and employees were left helpless without a legal binding. It is also a tool for “employer bullying”, making it legally easy for them to just cut off their employees without any problems.z

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