Do I have to work over Christmas and New Year and am I entitled to more pay?

IT'S always nice to know your rights about what you can and cannot do – especially when it comes to how much you are paid.

In the UK, between July to September 2018 and July to September 2019 the total number of weekly hours worked increased by 1 per cent with workers averaging 32.1 hours per week, according to government figures.

Can my employer count Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day as part of my paid leave entitlement?

It depends on your contract.

Some employers will award bank holidays to employees automatically, whereas others may require you to book them off.

It may not be nice, but it’s also not illegal, unless your contract says otherwise.

According to the Resolution Foundation, almost half of people on zero-hour contracts and temporary staff did not receive paid holiday in 2016 to 2018.

Do I have to work on Christmas Day?

There is no automatic right not to work on Christmas Day, but some people have the right to time off on Christmas Day through either their contract or employer.

It is entirely on your discretion within your agreed contract.

While the Christmas Trading Act of 2004 prohibits most large retail stores form opening on Christmas Day it’s better to be safe and double check the terms you have agreed to in your contract.

Can I get paid extra for working on Christmas Day?

Getting paid on Christmas Day is entirely up to your employer on whether or not if you’re paid extra or not.

Again, it’s best to double check your contract or speak directly with your employer.

It’s important to note that these terms vary depending on the sector and if you’re categorised as an employee or worker.
But it's worth asking your employer for more money or extra perks such as holiday time in lieu.

You can also ask them to cover the cost of your travel to work, if you don't drive and have to take a cab for example.

Ever wondered if you're allowed to take time off work if my kids are sick? Parents’ employment rights explained.

For more: What are my work rights for wages, holiday pay and rest breaks?

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