Working Tips
Whether you’re looking for your first job or if you’ve been working for a couple of years, problems at work can cause big headaches. Most of us rely on our jobs for income and paying for things we want and need, but even if you don’t need to work it’s still important to know your rights in employment so you can make sure you get a fair go.
Know your rights in employment
Before you start work, make sure you have an employment agreement. Before you sign one, read it carefully and get someone else to look it over for you. If you’re confused about anything, get a lawyer to take a look and explain it to you. Your employer should give you time to do all of this. Make sure that if you get paid in cash you’re paying tax. This will mean less headaches if you do have a problem and you do want to do something about it.
Issues with youth employment
Unfortunately, young people can find themselves involved in more work problems than everyone else. Young people tend to work part-time in unskilled or low-skilled industries, often without joining a union. This means that young people are more vulnerable to employers treating them badly. Knowing your rights means you’ll have less problems, and if you do experience issues, you’ll know how to sort them out.
See the work section of the YouthLaw website for more help or phone 0800 884 529