As you get older you might start looking for a job to earn some extra money, or even full time work. There are several points to consider if you are looking for work.
National Insurance Numbers
In year 11 you will receive a National Insurance Card with a number on it. When you start work you'll need to tell your employer your National Insurance Number. Once you get a job and are earning over a set amount you'll start to 'earn' National Insurance contributions and make a contribution to them too. National Insurance contributions are made to provide you with benefits at times when you are unable to work. If you don't receive your National Insurance Number Card, or mislay it, speak to your PA, or contact the National Insurance Registrations Helpline on 0845 915 70
Contract of Employment
Once you get a job you'll be entitled to a contract of employment; this is an agreement between your employer and yourself that records what your job is and what is expected of you and of the employer. All workers have a right to a 'written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment', and your employer can't change your contract without your agreement. This statement must be given to you within two months of starting work. Find out more at: www.direct.gov.uk/employment/employees If you have any problems you can get advice from your PA, or the Citizens Advice Bureau
Treating everyone fairly
It is illegal for you to be treated differently because of your gender, race, or religion, or if you have a disability, or if you work part time instead of full time. Speak to your Connexions Personal Adviser if you have any problems or questions. or you can contact these bodies:
Greater You can phone their advice line on: 0161 839 3888. Unfortunately they can only advise people who live within Greater Manchester.
National Minimum Wage
The National Minimum Wage sets minimum hourly rates of pay. Almost everyone who works in the UK is legally entitled to be paid at least the National Minimum Wage. This is the case even if an employer asks a worker to sign an employment contract at a lower rate of pay. It isn't necessary to be in full-time employment, or to work at an employer's premises. If you have any questions, speak to your PA.
Working Hours
Most people should not have to work more than an average of 48 hours a week. You also have rights to paid holiday, rest breaks and limits on night work. Your average working hours are calculated over a 17-week period. You can work more than 48 hours in one week as long as the average over 17 weeks is less than 48 a week. There are special rules for some workers, such as young workers, trainee doctors and mobile workers in the transport industry.
For more information on employment and the law try these websites:
www.direct.gov.uk
www.adviceguide.org.uk
www.gmplu.org.uk.
www.dls.org.uk
