Contract of Employment
A contract of employment sets out the terms and conditions of employment. UK law requires key terms to be provided in writing on or before day one.
legal-terms
Category
beginner
Difficulty
5 min read
Read time
2025-01-15
Updated
Definition
Short definition
A contract of employment sets out the terms and conditions of employment. UK law requires key terms to be provided in writing on or before day one.
Detailed explanation
A contract of employment is the agreement between employer and employee governing the employment relationship. It may be written, verbal, or implied through custom and practice.
In the UK, employers must provide a written statement of employment particulars on or before the first day of work. This must include key information like job title, pay, hours, holiday, and employer details.
The statement is not itself the contract but is evidence of the contract terms. Other terms may come from handbooks, policies, collective agreements, or implied terms.
Practical guidance
How it works
Employer provides written statement of key terms on day one. Full terms may be in contract or referenced documents. Changes require consultation and agreement.
Best practices
Provide comprehensive written contracts
Include all statutory particulars
Keep contracts updated
Consult before any changes
Reference policies clearly
Legal context
Legal basis
Employment Rights Act 1996 s.1-4
Jurisdiction: United Kingdom
Key provisions
Written statement required from day one
Must include specified particulars
Some terms can refer to documents
Changes need agreement
Terms can be express or implied
Breach of contract claims possible
Official source
Frequently asked questions
What must be in the day one statement?
Names, start date, job title, pay, pay frequency, hours, holidays, place of work, sick pay, pension, training requirements, probation, and how to raise grievances or appeals.
Can my employer change my contract?
Not unilaterally. Changes need your agreement. Employer should consult, explain reasons, and get consent. Imposing changes can be breach of contract or constructive dismissal.
Related glossary terms
Probationary Period
A probationary period is an initial employment period allowing employer and employee to assess suitability, typically with shorter notice and regular reviews.
Notice Period
A notice period is the time between giving notice of termination and the end of employment, with UK statutory minimums of 1 week per year of service (up to 12 weeks).