Part-time workers in the UK have protection from discrimination in the form of the Part-Time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000.
- Equal treatment
Part-time workers must receive the same treatment as full-time workers, including pay rates, benefits, and leave entitlements, unless there is a justified reason for a difference.
- Protection from discrimination
It is illegal to treat part-time workers less favourably solely because of their part-time status. All employees are protected from unfair treatment and discrimination.
- Access to Training and Promotion
Part-time workers should have the same access to training opportunities and career progression as full-time workers.
- Pro rata benefits
Benefits such as holiday entitlement and pensions should be calculated on a pro rata basis, meaning part-time workers should receive a proportionate amount compared to full-time workers.
- Right to request full-time work
Part-time workers have the right to request a move to full-time work if a suitable position becomes available.
A word of caution
Statistically speaking, women and those with disabilities are more likely to work part-time, so it’s wise for employers to bear in mind the separate and distinct potential for sex or disability discrimination claims in circumstances where part-time workers are treated less favourably than their full-time colleagues.
Further Reading
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