Flexible workers to be compensated for late shift cancellations

Millions of flexible workers are to be given extra protection as part of the government’s Good Work Plan initiative.

The new measures are expected to include:

• compensation for workers when shifts are cancelled at short notice
• entitlement to a reasonable period of notice for their allocated shifts
• additional protections for individuals who are penalised if they do not accept shifts last minute.

A government spokesperson said: “Innovative entrepreneurs and new business models have opened up a whole new world of working patterns and opportunities, providing people with freedom to decide when and where they work that best suits them.

“It’s vital that workers’ rights keep pace with these changes, reflect the modern working environment and tackle the small number of firms that do not treat their staff fairly.

“Zero hours contracts can offer great flexibility to workers and help them fit their working lives around their home lives and studies. However, they can also leave workers uncertain of their expected income and make financial planning difficult.”

Nearly 40% of UK workers say that their hours can vary from week-to-week, with approximately 1.7 million individuals feeling anxious that their working hours could change unexpectedly.

The proposed changes will be open to a 12-week consultation. Workers in retail, hospitality and courier services are expected to be most affected by the changes.

We shall keep clients informed of developments.

Please contact Simran Lalli if you would like more information about the issues raised int his article, or any aspect of employment law.