FAQs

What is the law on Zero Hour contracts?

Employee Rights: Workers on zero-hours contracts are entitled to the same employment rights as other employees, including holiday pay, rest breaks, and protection against unfair dismissal, if they are classified as “workers” (not self-employed).
No Obligation to Work: Workers are not required to accept work offered, but they must be paid for any work they do.
Exclusivity Clause Ban: As of 2015, exclusivity clauses (preventing workers from working for others) in zero-hours contracts are banned.

Employers must ensure fair treatment and comply with legal rights, even though no guaranteed hours are provided.

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Other questions we get asked about Attract

Why is it important for me to ensure that my new starter has a legal right to work in the UK?

Ensuring a new starter has the legal right to work in the UK is important to comply with immigration laws, avoid potential fines or legal consequences, and protect your business from employing individuals who are not authorised to work (see support section for information on right to work checks). For free managers guides and templates […]

We have high turnover rates. What can I do?

To improve retention: Hire Right: Focus on skills, cultural fit, and long-term potential. Onboard & Train: Provide structured onboarding and career development. Offer Competitive Pay & Benefits: Regularly review salaries and perks. Foster a Positive Culture: Recognise achievements and promote inclusion. Provide Growth Opportunities: Offer mentorship and clear career paths. Support Work-Life Balance: Consider flexible work options. Develop Strong Leadership: Train managers and conduct exit interviews.

Can I withdraw an offer of employment even though the offer was only made verbally?

Yes, you can withdraw a verbal offer of employment, but it must be done carefully. A verbal offer is as legally binding as a written one, however you may still withdraw it but it may lead to potential legal consequences if the candidate has already relied on the offer (e.g., quitting another job, so a […]

Christmas close down. What should I do if a new starter has not accrued sufficient holiday entitlement to cover the business shutdown period?

Options include: Allow the new starter to take unpaid leave. Offer them the option to take holiday in advance. Allow them to make up the hours later, if feasible. OR : Let them have the additional days paid and communicate this is a special circumstance for year 1. Ensure the approach is clearly communicated and […]

Can I send a contract of employment to a new starter without a start date?

Yes, you can send a contract without a start date, but it should include a placeholder such as “start date to be agreed.” Ensure the contract specifies the employment is conditional on finalising the start date. For free managers guides and templates – Offer letter template (Attract section) 👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

Do I need to make notes during an interview of a potential new starter?

Yes, it’s a good practice to take notes during an interview for the following reasons: Record Key Points: Capture important details about the candidate’s qualifications and responses. Evaluate Objectively: Help compare candidates and make informed decisions. Legal Compliance: Notes can protect against potential discrimination claims by showing decisions were based on job-related criteria. Provide Feedback: […]

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Attract

From CV screening and interviews  to right-to-work compliance

Engage

From goal setting to  long-term employee retention

Develop

From recognition and communication to creating a positive workplace culture.

Support

From holiday calculations and maternity leave to redundancy and grievance management

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