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The European Working Time Regulations 1998 are still in force and exist to protect you and give you a health work/life balance
What is the 48-hour opt out?
What is the 48-hour opt out?
Regulation 4(1) states you should not work more than 48 hours per week (averaged across a 17-week period) unless you choose to opt out of this regulation (you'll be asked about this in your new starter pack).
If you're under 18 you can't work more than 40 hours per week and there's no choice to opt out of this.
If I opt out, does that mean you can make me work more hours?
If I opt out, does that mean you can make me work more hours?
No, if you opt out, it doesn't mean we can force you to work more hours, nor does it mean we'll offer you more work. It simply means if there's an opportunity for you to work more hours and you agree to do it, we'll not be breaking any laws.
How do I opt out?
How do I opt out?
You should have been asked in your new starter pack, but if you missed it (or if you've been with us for a while and didn't get a new starter pack), you can go on the intranet and complete the opt out form at any time (see below).
Can I change my mind about opting out?
Can I change my mind about opting out?
Yes, but you need to give us three months' notice in writing - please give this to your manager.
Am I entitled to rest breaks?
Am I entitled to rest breaks?
The law states you must take one uninterrupted 20-minute break whenever you work more than 6 hours a day. Your entitlement to a break is outlined in your contract of employment.
If you're under 18, you must have a break of at least 30-minutes for every 4.5 hours you work in a day.
Can I choose to work through my break?
Can I choose to work through my break?
No, you must take the correct rest break. Where your rest break is longer than 20 minutes, you may be able to reduce the duration of your rest break down to 20 minutes, but you must get permission from your manager.
What should I do if I'm not allowed to take my break?
What should I do if I'm not allowed to take my break?
Please raise your concerns with your manager or area manager, or you can raise a grievance.
Am I entitled to daily rest?
Am I entitled to daily rest?
You have the right to 11 hours rest between working days - for example if you finish work at 8pm, you shouldn't start work until at least 7am the next day.
Am I entitled to daily rest?
Am I entitled to daily rest?
You have the right to 11 hours rest between working days - for example if you finish work at 8pm, you shouldn't start work until at least 7am the next day.
If you're under 18 you must have 12 hours rest between working days
Am I entitled to weekly rest?
Am I entitled to weekly rest?
You have the right to either 24 hours uninterrupted rest from work per week, or 48 hours uninterrupted rest from work per fortnight.
If you're under 18 you must have 2 rest days per week.
If you missed this form the first time around, or you decided not to opt out and now want to, please complete this simple form.
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