Our A–Z of employment law breaks down the jargon and explains your rights in plain English, from ACAS to Zero‑Hours Contracts.
A – ACAS Code of Practice
Guidelines for handling disciplinary and grievance procedures fairly.
B – Bonus Disputes
Legal rules on contractual and discretionary bonuses.
C – Constructive Dismissal
When an employee resigns due to a fundamental breach of contract.
D – Discrimination
Protection under the Equality Act 2010 for nine protected characteristics.
E – Employment Tribunal
Independent body resolving workplace disputes.
F – Flexible Working
Day‑one right to request changes to working patterns.
G – Grievance Procedure
Formal process for raising workplace concerns.
H – Holiday Pay
Rules on accrual, carry‑over, and correct calculation.
I – Investigation
Employer’s duty to investigate misconduct or complaints fairly.
J – Job Share
Two employees sharing one full‑time role.
K – Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Linked to performance management and capability dismissals.
L – Lay‑Off and Short‑Time Working
Temporary reduction in work and pay—know your rights.
M – Maternity Leave
Statutory leave and pay entitlements for new parents.
N – Notice Period
Minimum notice employers and employees must give.
O – Occupational Health
Support for employee wellbeing and reasonable adjustments.
P – Protected Characteristics
Age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex, sexual orientation.
Q – Qualifying Period
Time needed for certain rights (e.g., unfair dismissal claims).
R – Redundancy
Fair process, consultation, and redundancy pay.
S – Settlement Agreement
Legally binding agreement to end employment on agreed terms.
T – TUPE Transfer
Protection when a business or service changes ownership.
U – Unfair Dismissal
Dismissal without a fair reason or process.
V – Victimisation
Unlawful treatment after raising a discrimination complaint.
W – Whistleblowing
Protection for reporting wrongdoing in the workplace.
X – Xmas Party Risks
Employer liability for misconduct at work events.
Y – Yearly Leave Entitlement
Minimum annual leave under Working Time Regulations.
Z – Zero‑Hours Contracts
Contracts with no guaranteed hours—rights and obligations.
Employment law touches every stage of working life, from hiring to exit. If you need advice on any of these issues, contact Paul.Lott@sweeneymiller.co.uk at Sweeney Miller Law for expert, confidential guidance.
