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Zero hours contracts

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago

A good thing for the economy? A bad thing for individuals? What are your thoughts?

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By *isscheekychopsWoman
over a year ago

The land of grey peas and bacon

For some it's crap for others it works for them. However ive heard stories of people pissing off the boss and their hours suddenly dropping from full time to only a few hours a week.

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By *ig Boy FunMan
over a year ago

Camden

For part-time and seasonal work they work fine.

But too many firms are now looking at them as way to controll wage costs and it is easier to sack someone on zero contract (you just keep giving them less hours till they quit). Which is the wrong reason for this type contract.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I work ad hoc as an audio typist for a property inventory company in South London. It works for me, because it's part time and flexible, I can do it as and when I want, and it fits around my studies. I don't want to be doing this for the rest of my life, but for now it suits me perfectly. I'm hoping over summer I'll get promoted, finally meet them, and do the dictation as well as the typing!

In the future, I would prefer to have a more stable job, with hours and rotas, but this suits me for the time being!

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"For some it's crap for others it works for them. However ive heard stories of people pissing off the boss and their hours suddenly dropping from full time to only a few hours a week. "

I had the same - overnight my house were lost. Overnight pitched into financial crisis, even though I'd worked there for several years.

I had a colleague who was on a zero hours contract for EIGHT years,never able to get a full time contract,which she desperately wanted

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By *tep121Man
over a year ago

manchester

Stupid.. should be banned. No company should do this. Is it only me that thinks that if they pay staff more money, they will have more money to spend in other companies, this bettering the economy? Keep paying staff low money, they have less to spend, companies lose money. Seems simple to me...

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By *harpDressed ManMan
over a year ago

Here occasionally, but mostly somewhere else


"Stupid.. should be banned. No company should do this. Is it only me that thinks that if they pay staff more money, they will have more money to spend in other companies, this bettering the economy? Keep paying staff low money, they have less to spend, companies lose money. Seems simple to me..."

Is that not an hourly rate issue, as opposed to a zero hours issue?

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By *radleyandRavenCouple
over a year ago

Herts

If I remember correctly, most people on zero hour contracts can be done out of sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, ect, is that right?

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"If I remember correctly, most people on zero hour contracts can be done out of sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, ect, is that right?"

Depends on the contract, but, generally, yes

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Stupid.. should be banned. No company should do this. Is it only me that thinks that if they pay staff more money, they will have more money to spend in other companies, this bettering the economy? Keep paying staff low money, they have less to spend, companies lose money. Seems simple to me...

Is that not an hourly rate issue, as opposed to a zero hours issue?"

Or both? Someone on a full time contract will be more likely to spend on larger purchases (eg house) as they have a greater feeling of security. Someone on zero hours will struggle to get credit at all - long term isn't that bad for the economy? The more people on zero hours, the fewer people who will want or be able to afford (or feel confident) to make major purchases: houses, cars etc

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Zero hours contracts are wrong on so many levels and need to be abolished.

Its sending the country back to the 1930s . I have seen people waiting in line to be chosen to work for a day. People cant live like that.

If you run a business you should employ some one on a wage and with hours you would accept yourself. If you cant pay a living wage to some one you should not be employing any one.

Labour said they will abolish zero hours . The conservatives say they are good for the economy. I would rather have set hours and a living wage

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me. "

I felt the same. Till I had the hours cut overnight once the government cuts hit my sector

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me.

I felt the same. Till I had the hours cut overnight once the government cuts hit my sector"

They ALWAYS. need people at the NHS

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me.

I felt the same. Till I had the hours cut overnight once the government cuts hit my sector

They ALWAYS. need people at the NHS "

They are cutting one in four people in the NHS!!!!!!!!

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By *inaTitzTV/TS
over a year ago

Titz Towers, North Notts

I think that whilst it may work for some, it is a system open to abuse.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Must be a nightmare for families. How can you budget?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Must be a nightmare for families. How can you budget?"

How can young people ever hope to start a family or get on the housing ladder on zero hours contracts. They must be abolished. Or we risk creating a lost generation

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West

This may not be palatable but if you want a better deal - do something about it. I know of four people who have been on zero hours contracts ( when I was younger it was just called hourly pay - no big deal back then, but I digress).

Three of the four have studied and/or undertaken courses to better themselves and now have full time jobs. It may not be what people want to hear but no company is going to keep a really good employee on a zero hours contract. Why would they? Company's want to keep their best talent.

My personal thoughts are that if anyone were to find themselves on zero hours contracts with no future security - ask yourself what can you do to change what you offer to the job market? Take a course, get better qualified and improve your cv.

Well paid jobs for poorly educated and unskilled people will never come back to the UK again and we all have to up our game and be more competitive in what we can offer in the job market.

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By *oxesMan
over a year ago

Southend, Essex

Many supermarket s and retail shops utilise 6 hour contracts. It means they have a flexible staffing numbers with out the restraint of permanent full time staff.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"This may not be palatable but if you want a better deal - do something about it. I know of four people who have been on zero hours contracts ( when I was younger it was just called hourly pay - no big deal back then, but I digress).

Three of the four have studied and/or undertaken courses to better themselves and now have full time jobs. It may not be what people want to hear but no company is going to keep a really good employee on a zero hours contract. Why would they? Company's want to keep their best talent.

My personal thoughts are that if anyone were to find themselves on zero hours contracts with no future security - ask yourself what can you do to change what you offer to the job market? Take a course, get better qualified and improve your cv.

Well paid jobs for poorly educated and unskilled people will never come back to the UK again and we all have to up our game and be more competitive in what we can offer in the job market.

"

I have a postgraduate qualification and have studied two subjects at University.

Is that well qualified for you?

I taught in FE for several years - on a zero hours contract

What do you say to that?

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"Must be a nightmare for families. How can you budget?

How can young people ever hope to start a family or get on the housing ladder on zero hours contracts. They must be abolished. Or we risk creating a lost generation "

With respect, it is this kind of attitude that should be abolished. When I was a teenager, first jobs were almost invariably hourly paid. Hourly pay was seemingly OK in the 1970's.

Hoping that a government might make something illegal is a forlorn and misguided thought. It is down to us all as the general working population to do more to make the company want to keep hold of us. If your working sector is full of companies that only offer zero hours contracts - get better qualified and do something else.

People need to be more aspirational, more ambitious and more determined. It is not down to this government or any government over that last 50 years to ban hourly pay or zero hours contracts. It is up to us to up our game.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Many supermarket s and retail shops utilise 6 hour contracts. It means they have a flexible staffing numbers with out the restraint of permanent full time staff."

Why? They have the money!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"This may not be palatable but if you want a better deal - do something about it. I know of four people who have been on zero hours contracts ( when I was younger it was just called hourly pay - no big deal back then, but I digress).

"

No, they're not the same thing.

I've been on contracts where I've been paid hourly, but they've always stipulated the minimum amount of hours. For instance '18 hours per week minimum, averaged over three weeks'.

Having zero hours contracts means that your employers can specify things like not working for the competition at the same time, and retaining you on a contract with certain behavioural enforcers, but WITHOUT GIVING YOU ANY HOURS.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm currently on a zero hour casual contract, its about as unstable as it gets! I budget, I pay my bills and I buy things. Yes I miss the security of a full time position but I'm currently working 10 hours a day 6 days a week with bonuses for achieving my targets!

The simple fact is that as I'm working hard and doing my job well I will continue to be offered work. Perhaps if people stopped feeling so entitled to work and actually working hard for it there wouldn't be an issue.

I'm not saying its perfect conditions but if its necessary to keep more people in work (as that's what it does) then that's what's necessary.

Politicians vowing to abolish something that's unpopular just for populist lauding is neither beneficial nor wise

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"If I remember correctly, most people on zero hour contracts can be done out of sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, ect, is that right?"

This kind of pay , as well as holiday pay, is based on AVERAGE hours worked over the previous 6 months. This was true for me a few years back....don't think it has changed.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Zero hours contracts are wrong on so many levels and need to be abolished.

Its sending the country back to the 1930s . I have seen people waiting in line to be chosen to work for a day. People cant live like that.

If you run a business you should employ some one on a wage and with hours you would accept yourself. If you cant pay a living wage to some one you should not be employing any one.

Labour said they will abolish zero hours . The conservatives say they are good for the economy. I would rather have set hours and a living wage "

There's a world of difference between set hours and a living wage and I do believe that the two terms are mutually exclusive

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"This may not be palatable but if you want a better deal - do something about it. I know of four people who have been on zero hours contracts ( when I was younger it was just called hourly pay - no big deal back then, but I digress).

Three of the four have studied and/or undertaken courses to better themselves and now have full time jobs. It may not be what people want to hear but no company is going to keep a really good employee on a zero hours contract. Why would they? Company's want to keep their best talent.

My personal thoughts are that if anyone were to find themselves on zero hours contracts with no future security - ask yourself what can you do to change what you offer to the job market? Take a course, get better qualified and improve your cv.

Well paid jobs for poorly educated and unskilled people will never come back to the UK again and we all have to up our game and be more competitive in what we can offer in the job market.

I have a postgraduate qualification and have studied two subjects at University.

Is that well qualified for you?

I taught in FE for several years - on a zero hours contract

What do you say to that?"

I say that you need to be honest with yourself. The best advice that I was ever given was that when things go wrong look in the morror. Before you blame anyone else, ask yourself... Is there anything at all tha I could have done to prevent this from happening and make a plan to implement the changes that you identify.

Sounds to me like you need some career coaching. What jobs are abvailable in your chosen sector? What transferable skills do you have if you were to look at other sectors? Have you undertaken a job analysis study in your immediate area and in the area in which you would be willing to commute? Would you be prepared to re-locate if necessary? If so what jobs are available elsewhere? Is your qualification in demand locally or nationally? Should You look for an alternative qualification that is more in demand? How does your cv read? Is it positive and does it reflect a positive and determined individual? How is your interview technique? How do you present yourself? How will he interviewer judge you? What can you do better? Wha is your plan? Make your plan better, establish goals and timescales. Etc etc

I wish you luck. Everyone should have a good job but we do need to work an awful lot harder these days than 20-30 years ago. Unfortunately, the world has changed and we need to change too.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"If I remember correctly, most people on zero hour contracts can be done out of sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, ect, is that right?

This kind of pay , as well as holiday pay, is based on AVERAGE hours worked over the previous 6 months. This was true for me a few years back....don't think it has changed."

There are a number of defences against zero hour contracts, custom and practise is a fun little legal term that most companies worry about

In real terms though any staff member has their basic rights in law. You receive sick pay and holiday pay in line with your earnings, you get out what you put in

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

might be better if zero hours contracts were limited to a time scale

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Sounds to me like you need some career coaching. What jobs are abvailable in your chosen sector? What transferable skills do you have if you were to look at other sectors? Have you undertaken a job analysis study in your immediate area and in the area in which you would be willing to commute? Would you be prepared to re-locate if necessary? If so what jobs are available elsewhere? Is your qualification in demand locally or nationally? Should You look for an alternative qualification that is more in demand? How does your cv read? Is it positive and does it reflect a positive and determined individual? How is your interview technique? How do you present yourself? How will he interviewer judge you? What can you do better? Wha is your plan? Make your plan better, establish goals and timescales. Etc etc

"

You miss the point. Many, many lecturers in HE are on zero hour contracts. It's generally considered the way to get into the industry. Fixed hour contracts rarely come up and are usually given to those already inside the department who are on zero hour contracts.

You could just go and do a different job... but if you really want to work in HE then that's the way that you have to do it.

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By *arry247Couple
over a year ago

Wakefield


"

Having zero hours contracts means that your employers can specify things like not working for the competition at the same time, and retaining you on a contract with certain behavioural enforcers, but WITHOUT GIVING YOU ANY HOURS."

Not these days that was the system under Labour but the coalition government changed the law on zero hours contracts.

Now people on zero hours contracts can work for who they like and as many different firms as they like.

The employees have the same minimum wage entitlements the same annual leave entitlements, travelling time etc.

It can be a good way to fit a job or jobs around other commitments.

Zero hours does not suit everyone but it does suit many.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"

It can be a good way to fit a job or jobs around other commitments.

"

The people I know on zero hour contracts cannot fit their 'job' around existing commitments. They get told when they will work, and if that clashes with something then they are expected to go to work. Often they're not getting their rotas until the last minute either, meaning that it's impossible to have other commitments anyway, for fear of losing the 'job' that you have.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"

Having zero hours contracts means that your employers can specify things like not working for the competition at the same time, and retaining you on a contract with certain behavioural enforcers, but WITHOUT GIVING YOU ANY HOURS.

Not these days that was the system under Labour but the coalition government changed the law on zero hours contracts.

Now people on zero hours contracts can work for who they like and as many different firms as they like.

The employees have the same minimum wage entitlements the same annual leave entitlements, travelling time etc.

It can be a good way to fit a job or jobs around other commitments.

Zero hours does not suit everyone but it does suit many.

"

Not true. The government is considered changing the exclusivity clause. It hasn't happened yet

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Sounds to me like you need some career coaching. What jobs are abvailable in your chosen sector? What transferable skills do you have if you were to look at other sectors? Have you undertaken a job analysis study in your immediate area and in the area in which you would be willing to commute? Would you be prepared to re-locate if necessary? If so what jobs are available elsewhere? Is your qualification in demand locally or nationally? Should You look for an alternative qualification that is more in demand? How does your cv read? Is it positive and does it reflect a positive and determined individual? How is your interview technique? How do you present yourself? How will he interviewer judge you? What can you do better? Wha is your plan? Make your plan better, establish goals and timescales. Etc etc

You miss the point. Many, many lecturers in HE are on zero hour contracts. It's generally considered the way to get into the industry. Fixed hour contracts rarely come up and are usually given to those already inside the department who are on zero hour contracts.

You could just go and do a different job... but if you really want to work in HE then that's the way that you have to do it."

this!

I did ask recently about retraining. I was told there are no funds available. So, I can't retrain: no money. I lost my job due to cutbacks caused by this government.

Under Labour, I was working hard, earning well and paying lots of taxes. Under the Tories, I lost my job due to austerity cutbacks. Cutbacks that mean there are few opportunities in my sector now. And no funds available to retrain

If there is anyone on fab who will offer me a job, I will take it

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Zero hour contracts are common in many sectors and not limited to the lower payscales as the media suggests. I deal with many highly skilled consultants their expertise is largely in particularly niche areas, all of these are on zero hour contracts, the consultants choose zero hour contracts and larger income over stable employment and a lower income, the difference in salary can sometimes be as much as 100% For the tories to say this is good for the economy is rubbish as said consultants are often contracted to work for government departments, what would be better for the economy is for the government to pay adequately for SQEP personnel

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I have fought hard against zero hour contracts with my Union. We are totally opposed to them.

I have heard cases of women becoming pregnant and finding their hours cut to zero.

People who had a disagreement with their manager their hours cut to zero.

Managers accepting drinks and presents for more hours.

The system is just to open to abuse.

If you look for work else where your hours are cut to zero. They have the worker by the balls so to speak.

There should be a living wage and set hours.

I also disagree in people under the age of 21 receiving lower minium wage.

What incentive does that give our youth that we value their wage less.

It also makes employer's look for cheaper younger staff

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By *ohn_d57Man
over a year ago

Bedlington


"Must be a nightmare for families. How can you budget?

How can young people ever hope to start a family or get on the housing ladder on zero hours contracts. They must be abolished. Or we risk creating a lost generation "

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By *alandNitaCouple
over a year ago

Scunthorpe

My son is not intelligent and not very practical either. Having had mild learning difficulties, he left school with no qualifications and has been mainly on benefits since. He gets small amounts of work in factories all on zero hours contracts.

The idea if these a range mens being mutually beneficial is total bollox... If my lad says he's not free when they ask, they'll never ask again. They will send text messages a 5.50am saying don't come in today for you 6am start(he'll already be almost there by then). They will use him for when they are busy, then nothing for weeks. And obviously he can't just sign on and off instantly.

It is almost impossible for him to keep an income of any description and if he didn't live with us he would be homeless by now.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

In some cases it's a case of people being exploited by unscrupulous employers, which isn't at all fair on individuals for the reasons many people have given above.

In others it provides freedom and flexibility to those individuals who want to work that way.

When the statistics for total number of people on zero hours contracts are given I'm always curious about who is included in these. My boss is technically on a zero hours contract, but he's a high earning individual and specifically wanted that arrangement, so it seems wrong to include people like that in the argument about the proliferation of zero hours contracts and how it's a negative sign.

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By *aughtyinguMan
over a year ago

swindon

While they work for some its the abuse and terminal insecurity, if the boss dislikes you they will cut your hours, and while it is possible to retrain and get other job if lucky, someone will always be in that vunrable position

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"My son is not intelligent and not very practical either. Having had mild learning difficulties, he left school with no qualifications and has been mainly on benefits since. He gets small amounts of work in factories all on zero hours contracts.

The idea if these a range mens being mutually beneficial is total bollox... If my lad says he's not free when they ask, they'll never ask again. They will send text messages a 5.50am saying don't come in today for you 6am start(he'll already be almost there by then). They will use him for when they are busy, then nothing for weeks. And obviously he can't just sign on and off instantly.

It is almost impossible for him to keep an income of any description and if he didn't live with us he would be homeless by now."

I feel for you. The last zero hours contract job I had, twice I told the manager in advance that I had hospital appointments. This was twice in two weeks. The company went on to offer me work for those two days only!

I contacted the manager again explaining that I would have happy to work any other day - even weekends, yet wasn't offered any work for these days

After I had to say no the second time - again for a hospital appointment (relating to a heart condition) - the company never offered me any more work. They just sent me my P45

Zero hours contracts should only be offered in a seasonal jobs: for example, Christmas post within the Royal Mail

When I was working for several years teaching in FE, I should have been given a full time contract. One fellow teacher worked teaching in FE for eight years - yet still couldn't get a full time contract. That is an abuse of zero hours contracts

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By *andy_tomMan
over a year ago

wolverhampton

Cameron doesnt want one ,

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Cameron doesnt want one , "

No. Didn't he squirm when Paxman asked him about them??

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By *illwill69uMan
over a year ago

moston

Zero hours contracts are disgusting and should be banned. The fact that CaMoron is such a shifty weasel that he would not give a straight answer to a straight question and say that he would not work on one while trying to tell the rest of us what a great deal they are for us prols says it all!

If he and his Bullingdon Club pals in again only the super rich will benefit the rest of us will pay the price.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Zero hours contracts are disgusting and should be banned. The fact that CaMoron is such a shifty weasel that he would not give a straight answer to a straight question and say that he would not work on one while trying to tell the rest of us what a great deal they are for us prols says it all!

If he and his Bullingdon Club pals in again only the super rich will benefit the rest of us will pay the price."

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Worked great for me

As I refused a contract I could go home early if I wasn't needed.

No one else could

I was never sent home unneeded but I offered all the time because I'm a lazy twat

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West

I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%

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By *illyrocCouple
over a year ago

north west

A lot of companies are abusing zero hour contracts for there own benefits and are known for cutting people's hours if they complain ,I've also been informed by a employment lawyer that this government has put up tribunal costs from around 200 pound to over 1200 pounds so that tells me the Tories like these contracts as it makes there employment figures look good.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%"

Is there any breakdown of that into types of job or payment level?

As a general rule, if it's minimum wage or thereabouts I'd think there's a possibility its exploitative or the people doing that job haven't got much financial security. If someone is on £600 a day, not so much. (I could look myself, I'm being lazy)

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By *ot monkey71Couple
over a year ago

middlesbrough

It has basically given employers a licence to rob its employee's. Definitely a building block to modern day slavery.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%"

I was teaching in Further Education and about half - if not more - of teaching staff were on zero hours contacts

A complete abuse of how these contracts should be implemented

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

"

And do you think that number is going to get bigger or smaller?

It's the same old Tory dogma of business needs them, same as sick pay maternity pay holiday pay minimum wage were all going to cost jobs and shut businesses. If there's a seasonal need then put people on a temporary contract, or a part time contact, what the hell do sports direct or Argos need zero hours contracts for?, if a uni wants zero hours lecturers then contract them on a self employed basis, like taff said above these things are no more than a line of blokes queuing up asking if there's any work today.

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By *illwill69uMan
over a year ago

moston


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%"

Funny according to the ONS 700,000 of the 1,500,000 jobs created in the last 5 years are zero hours contracts...

Maybe it depends on which google number you choose what answer you get...

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%

Funny according to the ONS 700,000 of the 1,500,000 jobs created in the last 5 years are zero hours contracts...

Maybe it depends on which google number you choose what answer you get..."

Lol and what are the other half? Internships? (Should be renamed YTS, I reckon!)

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

And do you think that number is going to get bigger or smaller?

It's the same old Tory dogma of business needs them, same as sick pay maternity pay holiday pay minimum wage were all going to cost jobs and shut businesses. If there's a seasonal need then put people on a temporary contract, or a part time contact, what the hell do sports direct or Argos need zero hours contracts for?, if a uni wants zero hours lecturers then contract them on a self employed basis, like taff said above these things are no more than a line of blokes queuing up asking if there's any work today."

If you saw 'The Super Rich v Us', a lot of people are doing that: some contracts last just an hour or two. Lots of people lining up outside agencies looking for literally anything or registering online with agencies. No guarantee of work from hour to hour, much less day to day. Many not earning a penny yet willing to do anything. Reminded me of scenes from the 30s

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Zero hour contracts are good for companies.Saves on paying holiday pay,sick pay etc.

You can employ several people to cover one full time job and saves a small fortune on National Insurance contributions.

The state will top up free of charge, your companies wage bill and reduce your running costs.

Unemployment will become Zero as well, making the country appear to have a booming economy.

More people working for less money, has to good for those that run multinational companies.

Lets have another 5 years of exactly the same and blame everything, on the sick and disabled, who after all are just to bloody idle to work.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Worked great for me

As I refused a contract I could go home early if I wasn't needed.

No one else could

I was never sent home unneeded but I offered all the time because I'm a lazy twat"

Pmsl

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By *ust RachelTV/TS
over a year ago

Horsham


"If I remember correctly, most people on zero hour contracts can be done out of sick pay, maternity/paternity pay, ect, is that right?"

The zero hour contracts don't have any rights to any of that, but in the company I work for there is no sick pay, no overtime rate and that is for all contracts .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

[Removed by poster at 31/03/15 22:05:09]

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Zero hours contracts are wrong on so many levels and need to be abolished.

Its sending the country back to the 1930s . I have seen people waiting in line to be chosen to work for a day. People cant live like that.

Thi... certainly didn't work for Mr F. I do work for the NHS and reap the benefits! unfortunately some aren't so lucky!

If you run a business you should employ some one on a wage and with hours you would accept yourself. If you cant pay a living wage to some one you should not be employing any one.

Labour said they will abolish zero hours . The conservatives say they are good for the economy. I would rather have set hours and a living wage "

This.. Didn't work for Mr F. I do work for the NHS and reap the benefits, for now. Unfortunately some aren't so lucky.

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West

Try Googling the CIPD survey on zero hours contracts. You will get a more meaningful insight than hype that comes from one side or other that happens to have an agenda.

The survey is a year or so out of date, but it does make interesting reading.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Try Googling the CIPD survey on zero hours contracts. You will get a more meaningful insight than hype that comes from one side or other that happens to have an agenda.

The survey is a year or so out of date, but it does make interesting reading."
.

Oh the irony

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central

Zero hours contracts are generally a very bad thing for society, whether the economy, peoples' security and well being and shouldn't count as part of the so called employment 'success' of the Con Libs coalition.

The economy isn't in a good state, people don't have the increases in living standards that some politicians want to spout off about. Zero hours jobs are like a virus on society, creating a faster race to the bottom.

The greater the number of people paid next to nothing, with no or limited assurance of any employment, the more it will influence things to become like this for even more people.

Much better for things to be improving instead, with greater wage security, allowing people to take new rental agreements with confidence that they'll be able to pay longer term or mortgages etc. Having a sustainable future with protections is better for everyone here.

There is limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be.

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By *at69driveMan
over a year ago

Hertford


"This may not be palatable but if you want a better deal - do something about it. I know of four people who have been on zero hours contracts ( when I was younger it was just called hourly pay - no big deal back then, but I digress).

Three of the four have studied and/or undertaken courses to better themselves and now have full time jobs. It may not be what people want to hear but no company is going to keep a really good employee on a zero hours contract. Why would they? Company's want to keep their best talent.

My personal thoughts are that if anyone were to find themselves on zero hours contracts with no future security - ask yourself what can you do to change what you offer to the job market? Take a course, get better qualified and improve your cv.

Well paid jobs for poorly educated and unskilled people will never come back to the UK again and we all have to up our game and be more competitive in what we can offer in the job market.

"
. Good well written post . I have worked at a number of blue chip companies on a contract basis and have travelled up to seventy miles to obtain work or stayed in bed and breakfast . Once at a company , I have proved my ability and either secured a permanent role or a lengthy contract . However my attitude is that I must prove myself to a company every day , improve procedures , be more efficient , and be proactive every day . No company owes me a living , it is up to me to prove myself . Throughout life you must learn new skills and never stop learning or evaluating yourself . I had to obtain both a degree and study hard for additional qualifications . In addition to working full time , I run a small business so have the best of both worlds . Like is what you make of it no one owes you a living .

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"Zero hours contracts are generally a very bad thing for society, whether the economy, peoples' security and well being and shouldn't count as part of the so called employment 'success' of the Con Libs coalition.

The economy isn't in a good state, people don't have the increases in living standards that some politicians want to spout off about. Zero hours jobs are like a virus on society, creating a faster race to the bottom.

The greater the number of people paid next to nothing, with no or limited assurance of any employment, the more it will influence things to become like this for even more people.

Much better for things to be improving instead, with greater wage security, allowing people to take new rental agreements with confidence that they'll be able to pay longer term or mortgages etc. Having a sustainable future with protections is better for everyone here.

There is limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be."

Presumably then you would be happier with increased unemployment, an ever increasing deficit and an economy still in recession?

This is what socialism gave to France at about the same time as we chose a different route. Life is never perfect, but we should surely be happier that the country is in far better shape than our cousins across the channel?

This is the whole point. Why not celebrate progress instead of constantly complaining?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

What use is a strong economy if the wealth doesn't filter down to everyone?

.......but an equally good question might be: Who are the idiots whom thought that it would lead to anything else by voting Tory?

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central


"Zero hours contracts are generally a very bad thing for society, whether the economy, peoples' security and well being and shouldn't count as part of the so called employment 'success' of the Con Libs coalition.

The economy isn't in a good state, people don't have the increases in living standards that some politicians want to spout off about. Zero hours jobs are like a virus on society, creating a faster race to the bottom.

The greater the number of people paid next to nothing, with no or limited assurance of any employment, the more it will influence things to become like this for even more people.

Much better for things to be improving instead, with greater wage security, allowing people to take new rental agreements with confidence that they'll be able to pay longer term or mortgages etc. Having a sustainable future with protections is better for everyone here.

There is limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be.

Presumably then you would be happier with increased unemployment, an ever increasing deficit and an economy still in recession?

This is what socialism gave to France at about the same time as we chose a different route. Life is never perfect, but we should surely be happier that the country is in far better shape than our cousins across the channel?

This is the whole point. Why not celebrate progress instead of constantly complaining?"

We can't have it all ways - as I said,

'...limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be'

The economy is either strong or it isn't. It's a false dichotomy that we can either have employment security and good pay or else umemployment.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"

We can't have it all ways - as I said,

'...limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be'

The economy is either strong or it isn't. It's a false dichotomy that we can either have employment security and good pay or else unemployment."

Sophie, your two posts, above, highlight the nonsense behind the Government's lies about the economy. Thank you

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago

See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"Zero hours contracts are generally a very bad thing for society, whether the economy, peoples' security and well being and shouldn't count as part of the so called employment 'success' of the Con Libs coalition.

The economy isn't in a good state, people don't have the increases in living standards that some politicians want to spout off about. Zero hours jobs are like a virus on society, creating a faster race to the bottom.

The greater the number of people paid next to nothing, with no or limited assurance of any employment, the more it will influence things to become like this for even more people.

Much better for things to be improving instead, with greater wage security, allowing people to take new rental agreements with confidence that they'll be able to pay longer term or mortgages etc. Having a sustainable future with protections is better for everyone here.

There is limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be.

Presumably then you would be happier with increased unemployment, an ever increasing deficit and an economy still in recession?

This is what socialism gave to France at about the same time as we chose a different route. Life is never perfect, but we should surely be happier that the country is in far better shape than our cousins across the channel?

This is the whole point. Why not celebrate progress instead of constantly complaining?

We can't have it all ways - as I said,

'...limited arguments in favour of companies needing to employ this way, if they are successful and the economy is as strong as politicians are conning us all to believe it to be'

The economy is either strong or it isn't. It's a false dichotomy that we can either have employment security and good pay or else umemployment."

So if someone walks up to you and gives you £5 would you be grateful or annoyed that he didn't give you £10?

The European and US economies were battered in 2010 and in a big hole. Only Britain and the US have really extracted themselves from the mess in any meaningful way. No, it is not perfect, but it is movement in the right direction.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%"

You seem like sensible people. Fancy a shag sometime.

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By *imandcraigCouple
over a year ago

Warrington

Who gives a toss this is a swingers site not parliament

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"Who gives a toss this is a swingers site not parliament "

Plenty of other threads for you to contribute to. Why bother posting on a thread that does not interest or concern you?

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%

You seem like sensible people. Fancy a shag sometime.

"

oooohhhhhh

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By *urvymamaWoman
over a year ago

Doncaster

Id never dream of taking one ive got kids to support I need guarenteed hours/income and job stability

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I agree with above, but, it really is the employees choice to take it or not as you say....

They undoubtedly give employers flexibility. And if labours proposal is true, I think you'll find employers giving regular hours to zero hour workers for 11 weeks then dropping to zero for one before resuming.... Their plan doesn't stack up

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%"

And of that 2.3% somewhere between 20% and 30% were unhappy and wanted more hours.

So we have a Labour leader today spending his entire day banging on about an "epidemic" that detrimentally affects something like 0.5% of the working population.

Talk about using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Or maybe picking the wrong thing to fight... again.

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By *at69driveMan
over a year ago

Hertford


"Who gives a toss this is a swingers site not parliament "
. Lots of members do and look at all the contributions from the various members who do.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%

And of that 2.3% somewhere between 20% and 30% were unhappy and wanted more hours.

So we have a Labour leader today spending his entire day banging on about an "epidemic" that detrimentally affects something like 0.5% of the working population.

Talk about using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Or maybe picking the wrong thing to fight... again."

Still a fight worth fighting

If the current PM had adopted this policy, I'd be working now

So it's important to people like me

Or don't I count?

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago

Bump

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Ask Ed Milliband. Apparently 68 labour MOs employ staff on these contracts.

His own constituency (Doncaster) labour run council employ 230 people on zero hours contracts.

He seems to think they work quite well?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

*labour MPs lol....

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Ask Ed Milliband. Apparently 68 labour MOs employ staff on these contracts.

His own constituency (Doncaster) labour run council employ 230 people on zero hours contracts.

He seems to think they work quite well?"

He's bringing in, if elected, the right to a proper contract for those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks or more

What's your point?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

i've worked zero hours contract for the last 3 years...started off with basic carework...mostly end of life clients now..love my job...but held to ransom...if im sick...or take holiday that im entitled to...i have to budget for the fact that we are blatantly punished by losing hours in subsequent weeks..

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"For some it's crap for others it works for them. However ive heard stories of people pissing off the boss and their hours suddenly dropping from full time to only a few hours a week.

I had the same - overnight my house were lost. Overnight pitched into financial crisis, even though I'd worked there for several years.

I had a colleague who was on a zero hours contract for EIGHT years,never able to get a full time contract,which she desperately wanted"

How did you get a mortgage on a zero hour contract?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Sounds to me like you need some career coaching. What jobs are abvailable in your chosen sector? What transferable skills do you have if you were to look at other sectors? Have you undertaken a job analysis study in your immediate area and in the area in which you would be willing to commute? Would you be prepared to re-locate if necessary? If so what jobs are available elsewhere? Is your qualification in demand locally or nationally? Should You look for an alternative qualification that is more in demand? How does your cv read? Is it positive and does it reflect a positive and determined individual? How is your interview technique? How do you present yourself? How will he interviewer judge you? What can you do better? Wha is your plan? Make your plan better, establish goals and timescales. Etc etc

You miss the point. Many, many lecturers in HE are on zero hour contracts. It's generally considered the way to get into the industry. Fixed hour contracts rarely come up and are usually given to those already inside the department who are on zero hour contracts.

You could just go and do a different job... but if you really want to work in HE then that's the way that you have to do it.

this!

I did ask recently about retraining. I was told there are no funds available. So, I can't retrain: no money. I lost my job due to cutbacks caused by this government.

Under Labour, I was working hard, earning well and paying lots of taxes. Under the Tories, I lost my job due to austerity cutbacks. Cutbacks that mean there are few opportunities in my sector now. And no funds available to retrain

If there is anyone on fab who will offer me a job, I will take it

"

If you got a couple of grand and a few weeks spare you can get electrical installation inspection qualifications that can be a very good earner part time.

Add in a PAT course an a bit of gear and you can make a decent bit of money to fun yourself through the qualifications to get your installation certifications

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Ask Ed Milliband. Apparently 68 labour MOs employ staff on these contracts.

His own constituency (Doncaster) labour run council employ 230 people on zero hours contracts.

He seems to think they work quite well?

He's bringing in, if elected, the right to a proper contract for those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks or more

What's your point?"

Only in certain circumstances.

There's a great car crash interview with a labour mp where she says they will abolish zero hour contracts the interviewer tells her that's not true and she bqck peddles about how yes there will still be zero hour contracts but they will try to reduce them etc.

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By *er himWoman
over a year ago

Essex

Zero hours contracts - seem to remember they were called agency/Locum staff used to fill in gaps when needed that couldn't be filled by fulltime staff. They generally received a higher rate of pay than fulltime staff.

Funny how a Tory Government encourages zero hours contracts as an excuse to lower unemployment sats. And employers see an opportunity to just throw crumbs to the plebs.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I just did a quick Google search as it seemed to me from reading this thread that the world and his brother are on zero hours contracts.

As of Feb 2015 people on zero hours contracts made up just over 2% of the entire working population. Two/Three out of one hundred jobs are zero hours contracts.

OK, this is not ideal. But reading this thread and others you would think that two thirds - or more - of all jobs are zero hours and in fact it is only 2.3%

And of that 2.3% somewhere between 20% and 30% were unhappy and wanted more hours.

So we have a Labour leader today spending his entire day banging on about an "epidemic" that detrimentally affects something like 0.5% of the working population.

Talk about using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Or maybe picking the wrong thing to fight... again."

Exactly this

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By *arry247Couple
over a year ago

Wakefield


"

Not true. The government is considered changing the exclusivity clause. It hasn't happened yet"

Wrong it was given Royal Assent on the 26th march it is law now

Read the Act at

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/26/section/153/enacted

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Sounds to me like you need some career coaching. What jobs are abvailable in your chosen sector? What transferable skills do you have if you were to look at other sectors? Have you undertaken a job analysis study in your immediate area and in the area in which you would be willing to commute? Would you be prepared to re-locate if necessary? If so what jobs are available elsewhere? Is your qualification in demand locally or nationally? Should You look for an alternative qualification that is more in demand? How does your cv read? Is it positive and does it reflect a positive and determined individual? How is your interview technique? How do you present yourself? How will he interviewer judge you? What can you do better? Wha is your plan? Make your plan better, establish goals and timescales. Etc etc

You miss the point. Many, many lecturers in HE are on zero hour contracts. It's generally considered the way to get into the industry. Fixed hour contracts rarely come up and are usually given to those already inside the department who are on zero hour contracts.

You could just go and do a different job... but if you really want to work in HE then that's the way that you have to do it.

this!

I did ask recently about retraining. I was told there are no funds available. So, I can't retrain: no money. I lost my job due to cutbacks caused by this government.

Under Labour, I was working hard, earning well and paying lots of taxes. Under the Tories, I lost my job due to austerity cutbacks. Cutbacks that mean there are few opportunities in my sector now. And no funds available to retrain

If there is anyone on fab who will offer me a job, I will take it

If you got a couple of grand and a few weeks spare you can get electrical installation inspection qualifications that can be a very good earner part time.

Add in a PAT course an a bit of gear and you can make a decent bit of money to fun yourself through the qualifications to get your installation certifications"

How would I have a couple of grand spare?

The loss of my hours left me saddled with debt

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"For some it's crap for others it works for them. However ive heard stories of people pissing off the boss and their hours suddenly dropping from full time to only a few hours a week.

I had the same - overnight my house were lost. Overnight pitched into financial crisis, even though I'd worked there for several years.

I had a colleague who was on a zero hours contract for EIGHT years,never able to get a full time contract,which she desperately wanted

How did you get a mortgage on a zero hour contract? "

Obtaining credit on zero hours is difficult but not impossible. I didn't have a mortgage; I rented. When I lost my hours I was plunged into debt overnight

For those who support these contracts, congratulations! One day you will find yourself on one. Agencies are able to do most jobs and, in time, will meet move into your sector as more and more areas are outsourced

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Zero hour contract do suit some people, people who don't require a regular income, or a few students etc. being recently made redundant I can't believe the bullshit that is in place.

But the government themselves need to be a lot more flexible themselves because all they do is create barriers. I think workers do need to be more flexible so do the government, the business of signing on is a complete joke, I would be happy if until I gain full time employment to take whatever's is out there, but then to sign off, then sign on again when it ends and then have justify myself again to someone who treats me like a second class citizen.

Until I have a full time contract why can't I remain signed on they can even pay the money direct to the government then they pay me, create a new bank around your national insurance number.

There are a few crooks out there, but nowhere near as many as the papers (does Murdochs companies pay their fair share of tax) print, most find the business of unemployment and all the red tape and attitude of people treating them like some scourge to society a thoroughly demoralising humiliating business.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"Zero hour contract do suit some people, people who don't require a regular income, or a few students etc. being recently made redundant I can't believe the bullshit that is in place.

But the government themselves need to be a lot more flexible themselves because all they do is create barriers. I think workers do need to be more flexible so do the government, the business of signing on is a complete joke, I would be happy if until I gain full time employment to take whatever's is out there, but then to sign off, then sign on again when it ends and then have justify myself again to someone who treats me like a second class citizen.

Until I have a full time contract why can't I remain signed on they can even pay the money direct to the government then they pay me, create a new bank around your national insurance number.

There are a few crooks out there, but nowhere near as many as the papers (does Murdochs companies pay their fair share of tax) print, most find the business of unemployment and all the red tape and attitude of people treating them like some scourge to society a thoroughly demoralising humiliating business."

The media and political parties are in bed together: problem is, most are right wing papers working to see Cameroon re-elected! Tv execs seem to be doing the same currently: the proliferation of programs demonising those on benefits on Ch4 and 5 demonstrate this

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By *oole2010Couple
over a year ago

southampto


"See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks"

So milliband has changed his tune slightly there then, he was going to abolish them, which he should,now we see the champagne socialist ideal coming out again, we will only be half tory is that ok?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks

So milliband has changed his tune slightly there then, he was going to abolish them, which he should,now we see the champagne socialist ideal coming out again, we will only be half tory is that ok?"

62 labour MP's employ people on zero hours contracts.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks

So milliband has changed his tune slightly there then, he was going to abolish them, which he should,now we see the champagne socialist ideal coming out again, we will only be half tory is that ok?"

I'm not a labour supporter, much less Milliband's spokesman! Just saying what was on tv. That measure would then give those on zero hours the same legal protection as temps. Temps who have worked set hours for twelve weeks or more can't have their hours cut without notice. Personally I'm all for greater protection for employees: aren't you?

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks

So milliband has changed his tune slightly there then, he was going to abolish them, which he should,now we see the champagne socialist ideal coming out again, we will only be half tory is that ok?

I'm not a labour supporter, much less Milliband's spokesman! Just saying what was on tv. That measure would then give those on zero hours the same legal protection as temps. Temps who have worked set hours for twelve weeks or more can't have their hours cut without notice. Personally I'm all for greater protection for employees: aren't you?"

Do you ever think that you might be bashing your head against a brick wall hoping that someone else resolves the problem that you have?

Just reading your posts on here the last few days and my impression is that you are fighting against the system instead of running with it and looking for your opportunity. You have applied time, effort and energy putting a point of view across that even if you did change someone's mind on here - what effect would it have on the subject matter anyway?

I personally think that you need to accept that this is where things are and how they are and then facing that fact, look at what you can do to change your own circumstances so that you are not facing the problem anymore. It will take a complete change of your way of thinking to succeed and I mean about the way you see opportunity and oppression. If you come across in the real world as you have on here yesterday and today - feeling oppressed, persecuted, unlucky and bitter - not much will change. On the other hand if you wake up tomorrow morning and think... fuck this, my life changes today and you go at life with a more positive and embracing "can do" attitude, you will be surprised at how things will just happen for you.

I accept that it is tough being positive when you feel oppressed but really think about it. You are intelligent, you are fit and healthy (i presume) you have the support of a partner and you are not in a life or death situation. It is just about changing your attitude and having a belief in yourself that YOU can change your own life, without the involvement of any politician, red, blue, purple or any other colour.

Good luck... and I do mean that.

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By *i-shoptonMan
over a year ago

bishopton


"I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me.

I felt the same. Till I had the hours cut overnight once the government cuts hit my sector

They ALWAYS. need people at the NHS

They are cutting one in four people in the NHS!!!!!!!!"

Where on earth did you glean that?... Daily mirror?, daily record or 'a man in the pub'???..... Must be true then

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By *oole2010Couple
over a year ago

southampto


"See Miliband is looking to force employers to offer proper contracts to those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks

So milliband has changed his tune slightly there then, he was going to abolish them, which he should,now we see the champagne socialist ideal coming out again, we will only be half tory is that ok?

I'm not a labour supporter, much less Milliband's spokesman! Just saying what was on tv. That measure would then give those on zero hours the same legal protection as temps. Temps who have worked set hours for twelve weeks or more can't have their hours cut without notice. Personally I'm all for greater protection for employees: aren't you?"

Yep im with you on greater protection for the workers but the 12 week thing is, i have a nephew who for last 3 years seems to be let go after 10-11 weeks then gets a call after about two weeks saying they are busy again we need you to work and we can all see whats happening there.

they wont take him on full time so we are left with the situation do we ban them?, or do we put up with it and, if your not happy with your lot, keep improving and find an employer who will value your worth?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Don't think I'd like to be on a zero hrs contract...

But for some they work out fine..

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Ask Ed Milliband. Apparently 68 labour MOs employ staff on these contracts.

His own constituency (Doncaster) labour run council employ 230 people on zero hours contracts.

He seems to think they work quite well?

He's bringing in, if elected, the right to a proper contract for those on zero hours contracts for 12 weeks or more

What's your point?"

My point is he is a feckin hypocrite! Sort your own back yard out first! It's just a band wagon he is jumping on. He won't and probably can't do anything about it due to European competition Laws.

Same with his bullshit about capping or forcing down Energy prices. It is an "open" ( I know that's a joke) as far as it goes. The EU commissioners have already said any move to cap/control prices in that way would be illegal.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"I'm on a zero hour contract.

I like it a lot. I always get shifts, I can take holiday when I want.

I choose my shifts.

It works well for me.

I felt the same. Till I had the hours cut overnight once the government cuts hit my sector

They ALWAYS. need people at the NHS

They are cutting one in four people in the NHS!!!!!!!!

Where on earth did you glean that?... Daily mirror?, daily record or 'a man in the pub'???..... Must be true then "

Cutting one in four in the NHS?? Seriously? Didn't you read the papers, watch the news on all channels when this was announced? It's a five year plan. The same is happening with the police. Have you heard of that too?

As well as seeing it all over the news, I have friends working in the NHS, all of whom are very worried.

Please tell me you were joking that you don't know this story: it was one of the austerity cut measures announced a couple of years back.

They're also cutting council workers massively. Have you heard that?

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By *oo hotCouple
over a year ago

North West


"

Cutting one in four in the NHS?? Seriously? Didn't you read the papers, watch the news on all channels when this was announced? It's a five year plan. The same is happening with the police. Have you heard of that too?

As well as seeing it all over the news, I have friends working in the NHS, all of whom are very worried.

Please tell me you were joking that you don't know this story: it was one of the austerity cut measures announced a couple of years back.

They're also cutting council workers massively. Have you heard that?"

There is no history of any news item suggesting that 1 in 4 NHS jobs is to go. Google is your friend. Try it.

There will be more cuts because there has to me more cuts to save money. The government have to tread the line of cutting costs to save money and encouraging business to flourish in the UK and provide jobs in order to increase the overall tax take.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
over a year ago


"

Cutting one in four in the NHS?? Seriously? Didn't you read the papers, watch the news on all channels when this was announced? It's a five year plan. The same is happening with the police. Have you heard of that too?

As well as seeing it all over the news, I have friends working in the NHS, all of whom are very worried.

Please tell me you were joking that you don't know this story: it was one of the austerity cut measures announced a couple of years back.

They're also cutting council workers massively. Have you heard that?

There is no history of any news item suggesting that 1 in 4 NHS jobs is to go. Google is your friend. Try it.

There will be more cuts because there has to me more cuts to save money. The government have to tread the line of cutting costs to save money and encouraging business to flourish in the UK and provide jobs in order to increase the overall tax take. "

After posting, I did google: found mention of 4000 front line staff, cuts to operations et al. Certainly the headlines mentioned one in four staff when the austerity cuts where first mentioned, as I discussed it with a friend. Similarly one in five police jobs going was also mentioned. Similarly, Councils have mentioned 25% cuts. Of course, the cuts will continue after the election, whoever wins

As for your earlier post, thank you. While we don't agree on our politics, I appreciated your comments

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