The Fundamentals of Fixed Term Employees
Below is a summary of what categorises an employee as being on a fixed term contract:
- The contract will automatically end on the completion of a specific project or task
- The contract has a specific end date
- The contract ends when a specific event occurs, for example the return of an employee from sick leave
To ensure that you deal with your fixed term employees correctly you need to be familiar with your legal obligations. Our step-by-step guide – Your Responsibilities – will inform you about this as will the information below.
Employees who are employed on fixed term contracts must be treated equally and in the same way as permanent employees. They have a right to the following:
- The same package of benefits as other employees
- Equal pay
- Full access to your occupational pension scheme
- The same promotion and transfer opportunities including full knowledge of all internal vacancies and the right to apply for them
- The right to be selected for redundancy
- The contracts of your fixed term employees must comply fully with all laws. They have to be fairly treated at all times
- Equal access to development and training
If a fixed term employee is treated unfairly, dismissed or victimised they have the right to make a claim through an employment tribunal.
Our Rules and Regulations topic contains more guidance about employing people on fixed term contracts.
You can also speak to our legal advice staff by calling Hylton Potts on 0207 381 8111 or sending us an email.