UK workers gain right to predictable hours
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — Millions of UK workers now have the legal right to request more predictable working hours after the Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 received Royal Assent on September 18.
The new law, backed by the government, aims to give workers on atypical contracts — such as zero-hours contracts — more certainty over their schedules. This includes the right to formally apply to change their variable schedules for more predictable hours and times.
The law delivers on a 2019 manifesto pledge to introduce the right for workers to request more predictable contracts. It intends to address the power imbalance between some employers and workers on irregular contracts. The law also provides workers greater income certainty amid the rising cost of living.
Under the new rules, workers can formally apply to change their schedules if they lack certainty over hours and times or are on fixed-term contracts for less than 12 months. Employers must respond within one month.
Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake said the law “helps end the guessing game” over shifts for workers.
“A happier workforce means increased productivity, helping in turn to grow the economy, which is why we’ve backed these measures to give people across the UK more say over their working pattern,” he added.
The law follows recent worker rights victories like record minimum wage increases and new parental protections. It also builds on the UK’s flexible labor market while giving workers more of a voice over their schedules.
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