Tuesday Q&As

25.4.23

• Zero hours contract and the right to refuse work

• Additional travel distance to work. Should fuel be paid?

• Employer changing goalposts and demanding improved performance

• Grievance raised 7 months ago, still no outcome. What are my next steps?

• Doctors note with under 7 days sickness. What’s the position?

• Conducting a grievance hearing. I’m worried I may get it wrong

• Dismissed for failing to attend an unpaid meeting. Is that fair?

• Pay rate changed shortly after starting work. Can I refuse to accept a lower rate?

• Prevented from taking bank holidays off. Can my employer do this?

• Sexual assault at work

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Zero hours contract and the right to refuse work

Q. From what I’ve read everywhere and been told by a relative who was formerly an employer, my zero hour contract gives me the right to refuse work, as it gives my employer the right to cut my hours or give me any at all. I’ve worked with them for 4 years. I’ve given them two months notice to say I’m unable to work one day in particular. I’m being told this isn’t possible. I’m not able to do it. I’m allowed to put in requests but I can’t take it off if not approved. Now I’m asking for this as an unpaid day off.

Please help the company is causing me much unwanted stress and this is the cherry on top. I’ve been told I was hired different to another member of staff, equally on a zero hour contract who is honoured sets days off etc.

A. A zero-hours contract does allow you the right to refuse work, as it also provides your employer the flexibility to adjust your hours. However, the specific terms of your employment contract and your employer's policies will determine your ability to request unpaid days off. It's essential to review your contract and discuss your situation with your employer. If your request is not approved, you may want to consider explaining the reasons why you cannot work on that particular day and seek a compromise or alternative solution with your employer.