• You cannot be asked to work more than 48 hours per week or 40 hours if you are between 16 and 17
• You cannot be asked to work more than 8 hours a day, excluding breaks if you are between 16 and 17
• You cannot be asked to work more than 5 days per week if you are between 16 and 17
• If you are under the age of 18 you must have a 30 minute break for every 4.5 hours of work
• You must have a rest period of 12 hours between each working day
• Within 2 months of starting a new job your employer must give you a written statement of employment (PDF)  

 

 

Training

When you start a new job you can expect your employer to arrange any training that will help you carry out your job successfully.

If taking a specific qualification is part of your job requirement then you will be given time off either as day release every week or as a block of time such as 8 weeks to attend a college.

If you are under 18 and have less than NVQ2 (4 GCSEs at grades A*-C) you could be eligible for training of at least a day a week to help you develop your career. If you are interested in Time off for Study and Training (TfST) please contact your local Connexions centre.

Working Conditions

By law, it is the responsibility of an employer to ensure that their work place is a safe place to work. Every office and factory should display Health & Safety regulations for everyone to see.  If you think your work place is unsafe speak to your supervisor or manager. If this is difficult contact Connexions.

Further information:

Citizens Advice Bureau

eCLIPS fact sheets 'Starting work' (PDF)

eCLIPS fact sheet 'Under school leaving age and working. What's legal?' (PDF)

Equality and Human Rights Commission

Law, your rights and citizenship (Internal link)

Speak up stay safe (British Safety Council)