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As an employer or employee, having a written employment contract is essential. It outlines the terms and conditions of the employment agreement, including the job duties, salary, benefits, and termination clauses. However, creating an employment contract from scratch can be a daunting task. This article provides seven employment contract sample UK that you can use as a template for your business.
Example 1: Fixed-term contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a fixed-term contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. The term of the contract will begin on [start date] and end on [end date], unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of this agreement.
As a [job title], your duties will include [job duties]. Your salary will be [salary amount] per [year/month/week], payable on [payday]. You will be entitled to [benefits].
If either party wishes to terminate the contract before the end of the term, they must give [notice period] weeks’ notice in writing.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 2: Part-time contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a part-time contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. You will be working [number of hours] hours per [week/month], starting on [start date].
Your duties will include [job duties]. Your hourly rate will be [hourly rate], payable on [payday]. You will be entitled to [benefits].
The contract can be terminated by either party by giving [notice period] weeks’ notice in writing.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 3: Probationary period contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a probationary period contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. The probationary period will begin on [start date] and end on [end date], unless extended or terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of this agreement.
During the probationary period, your duties will include [job duties]. Your salary will be [salary amount] per [year/month/week], payable on [payday]. You will be entitled to [benefits].
If we decide to extend the probationary period, we will inform you in writing before the end of the original period. If we decide to terminate the contract during the probationary period, we will give you [notice period] weeks’ notice in writing.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 4: Casual contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a casual contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. You will be working on an as-needed basis, and there are no guaranteed hours of work.
Your duties will include [job duties]. Your hourly rate will be [hourly rate], payable on [payday]. You will not be entitled to any benefits.
The contract can be terminated by either party at any time by giving written notice.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 5: Commission-based contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a commission-based contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. Your compensation will be based on the sales you generate, and there is no fixed salary.
Your duties will include [job duties]. You will receive [commission percentage] of the sales you generate, payable on [payday]. You will not be entitled to any benefits.
The contract can be terminated by either party at any time by giving written notice.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 6: Full-time contract with non-compete clause
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you a full-time contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. Your duties will include [job duties]. Your salary will be [salary amount] per [year/month/week], payable on [payday]. You will be entitled to [benefits].
This contract includes a non-compete clause, which means that you cannot work for a competitor or start a competing business for [duration] after leaving the company.
The contract can be terminated by either party by giving [notice period] weeks’ notice in writing.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Example 7: Apprenticeship contract
Dear [employee name],
I am pleased to offer you an apprenticeship contract for the role of [job title] at [company name]. This contract is governed by the National Apprenticeship Agreement.
During the apprenticeship, your duties will include [job duties]. You will receive [apprenticeship wage], which is [percentage] of the minimum wage for your age group, payable on [payday]. You will be entitled to [benefits].
The contract will end on [end date], unless terminated earlier by mutual agreement or in accordance with the terms of the National Apprenticeship Agreement.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Tips for Creating an Employment Contract Sample UK
Before using any of the employment contract sample UK provided above, there are several tips you should keep in mind.
First, make sure the contract is legally compliant. Employment law varies depending on the industry and the country, so it’s essential to consult with a lawyer or a human resources professional before finalizing the contract.
Second, be specific. The contract should outline the job duties, compensation, benefits, and termination clauses in detail. This will help avoid misunderstandings or disputes down the line.
Third, keep the language clear and concise. Avoid using complex legal terms or jargon that could confuse the employee.
Finally, review the contract regularly. As your business grows and evolves, you may need to update the contract to reflect the changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should be included in an employment contract?
A: An employment contract should include the job title, job duties, compensation, benefits, and termination clauses. It may also include other terms, such as confidentiality or non-compete agreements.
Q: Is an employment contract legally binding?
A: Yes, an employment contract is a legally binding agreement between the employer and the employee.
Q: Can an employment contract be changed?
A: Yes, an employment contract can be changed by mutual agreement between the employer and the employee. However, any changes should be made in writing and signed by both parties.
Q: What happens if an employee breaches the employment contract?
A: If an employee breaches the employment contract, the employer may terminate the contract and pursue legal action.
Q: What is a non-compete clause?
A: A non-compete clause is a provision in the employment contract that prohibits the employee from working for a competitor or starting a competing business for a certain period after leaving the company.
Q: Can an employment contract be terminated without notice?
A: In some cases, an employment contract may be terminated without notice for serious breaches, such as theft or fraud. However, most contracts require a certain notice period before termination.
Conclusion
A well-written employment contract is crucial for both the employer and the employee. It protects their rights and outlines their obligations. The employment contract sample UK provided in this article can help you create a customized contract that meets your business needs. Remember to consult with a lawyer or a human resources professional before finalizing the contract.