A well-drafted employment contract protects both employer and employee and prevents costly misunderstandings. Under UK law there are specific terms you must provide, here's what to include.
The written statement of particulars
In the UK, employers must give every employee and worker a written statement of the main terms of their employment on or before their first day of work. This is a legal requirement, and many of the items below must appear in it.
Essential terms to include
- The parties, employer and employee names.
- Start date, and the date continuous employment began.
- Job title and duties, a clear description of the role.
- Pay, amount, frequency and method of payment.
- Hours of work, including any variable or overtime arrangements.
- Place of work, location, or a note if it varies or is remote.
- Holiday entitlement, including public holidays and how pay is calculated.
- Sick pay and leave, entitlements and notification requirements.
- Pensions, details of any scheme.
- Notice periods, required from both employer and employee.
- Disciplinary and grievance procedures, or where to find them.
Going beyond the minimum
Strong contracts also cover confidentiality, intellectual property, probationary periods, and restrictive covenants where appropriate. Pairing the contract with a clear employee handbook ties everything together.
Get your contracts reviewed
Employment law evolves, and out-of-date contracts are a common source of risk. Our consultants draft and review compliant contracts, policies and handbooks tailored to your business. Speak to an expert to get started.
