Understanding Your Employee Rights in the UK

Employees in the UK have legal protections that ensure fair treatment at work. However, many workers remain unaware of their rights, leaving them vulnerable to unfair treatment or even exploitation. Whether you’re a full-time employee, part-time worker, or on a temporary contract, understanding your rights is crucial for ensuring a safe and fair workplace.

This guide will cover key areas of UK employment law, from wages and working hours to discrimination protections and whistleblowing rights. We’ll also share useful resources for those looking to learn more about employment protections.

Your Right to Fair Pay

One of the most fundamental employee rights in the UK is fair pay. The government sets National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates that employers must follow. The rate you’re entitled to depends on your age and whether you are an apprentice.

As of January 2025, the minimum wage rates are:

• £11.44 per hour for workers aged 21 and over (National Living Wage)
• £8.60 per hour for workers aged 18-20
• £6.40 per hour for workers under 18
• £6.40 per hour for apprentices

If your employer is paying you less than the legal minimum, you have the right to challenge this. Underpayment is a form of labour exploitation, and if you suspect unfair practices at your workplace, read more in our guide on Exploitation of Labour in the UK: What to Know.

Overtime Pay and Holiday Pay

In addition to minimum wage laws, UK workers have rights concerning overtime and paid holidays:

• If you work more than 48 hours a week, your employer must ensure you do so voluntarily (unless you have opted out of this limit).
• Workers are legally entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid holiday per year, including bank holidays.

Protection Against Discrimination

The Equality Act 2010 protects employees from workplace discrimination based on protected characteristics, including:

• Age
• Gender
• Race or nationality
• Religion
• Disability
• Sexual orientation
• Pregnancy or maternity leave

Employers must ensure equal treatment in hiring, promotions, salaries, and workplace policies. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you can report it to your employer or escalate it to an employment tribunal.

Working Hours and Breaks

Workers in the UK have clear rights when it comes to working hours and rest periods:

• You cannot be forced to work more than 48 hours per week unless you voluntarily agree in writing.
• If you work more than 6 hours per day, you are entitled to at least a 20-minute rest break.
• Workers must have 11 consecutive hours of rest between working days.

It’s important to know your working hour rights, especially if you’re in an industry where long hours are common.

Protection Against Unfair Dismissal

If you’ve been employed for at least two years, you have protection against unfair dismissal. Your employer must provide a valid reason for letting you go, such as misconduct, redundancy, or a failure to perform your duties.

Wrongful dismissal (firing an employee without following proper legal procedures) can be challenged at an employment tribunal. In cases of mass layoffs, workers may also be entitled to redundancy pay.

Redundancy Pay Entitlements

If you are made redundant, you may qualify for statutory redundancy pay:

• Half a week’s pay for each full year worked under the age of 22
• One week’s pay for each full year worked between ages 22 and 40
• One and a half week’s pay for each full year worked over the age of 41

Whistleblowing: Reporting Workplace Wrongdoings

Whistleblowing laws protect employees who report illegal or unethical workplace activities. If you expose wrongdoing, such as fraud, unsafe work conditions, or criminal activity, your employer cannot legally retaliate against you.

You should report concerns internally first, but if that’s not possible, you can contact external authorities such as:

• The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
• HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for tax fraud
• The Equality and Human Rights Commission for discrimination cases

If you fear retaliation, you may have legal protection under whistleblowing laws, allowing you to take legal action if you face unfair treatment.

What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated

If you believe your employee rights have been violated, here’s what you should do:

1. Raise the issue with your employer – Often, workplace disputes can be resolved internally.
2. Consult your contract and company policies – Your rights may be detailed in your employment agreement.
3. Seek legal advice – Employment law solicitors or Citizen’s Advice can help assess your case.
4. File a claim with an employment tribunal – If informal resolution fails, you may need to take legal action.

For workers looking for better job opportunities with fair pay and strong legal protections, the Remitly Jobs blog is a great place to explore career advice and job market insights.

Common Questions About Employee Rights in the UK

1. Can my employer make me work more than 48 hours per week?

No, unless you voluntarily opt out of the 48-hour workweek limit. Employers cannot force you to work excessive hours.

2. What should I do if my employer is not paying me the minimum wage?

You should report the issue to your employer first. If they refuse to comply, you can contact HMRC or take legal action through an employment tribunal.

3. Can my employer fire me without giving a reason?

Not if you have been employed for at least two years. If dismissed unfairly, you can file a claim for unfair dismissal.

4. Am I entitled to sick pay if I can’t work due to illness?

If you meet eligibility criteria, you can receive Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) of £116.75 per week for up to 28 weeks. Some employers offer additional sick pay benefits.

5. How do I report workplace discrimination?

You can file a complaint with your employer first. If the issue persists, you can take your case to an employment tribunal or seek legal help from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Understanding your rights as an employee is essential for ensuring fair treatment and preventing workplace exploitation. By staying informed, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and others in the workplace.