variable hours vs zero hours

scooby088

Just a quick question are variable hours contracts the same as zero hours contract? I have googled it but keep getting some university site or cab site. Is there really any difference between the two wordings.

HappyMJ

A variable hours contract might have a minimum numbers of hours you are expected to be available per week and have a commitment to the number of shifts you are to do each week. As long as the shifts offered are within the hours that you are supposed to be available you should not turn them down. There may be a condition that any shifts offered are offered for example 48 hours in advance of the beginning of the shift. At least I would insist on something like that.

A zero hours contract should not require you to be available on call. You are be able to refuse any shifts but they have no commitment to offer you any further work at all.

tibawo

When I've looked at variable hours there has always been a minimum. The jobs I looked at would say things like a minimum of four hours but could be up to thirty. Also saying you need to be flexible.

Zero hours means just that. I have one and up until earlier this week had no work since early July which was hard as I had not had time to build a buffer for times when not working. I am looking for a couple of hours work now so that I now at least I have some money coming in when there is a dry spell.

getmore4less

One big difference can be holidays.

On a zero or true variable you should get holiday for all hours worked.

For a min hours but we want you to work when we say will be on the contracted min hours.

Common way to reduce the holiday pay bill in retail and hospitality.