Public and Commercial Services Union

Under European and UK law, workers are protected by a variety of rights limiting working time and providing for leave and financial support in specific circumstances.

Parents and carers benefit from statutory entitlements to request flexible working and in respect of maternity, paternity, parental leave, adoption and time off for dependants.

Particular legal protections also apply to part-time workers, temporary workers and workers with disabilities.

The main pieces of legislation in the UK are:

• Working Time Regulations
• Work and Families Act
• Employment Act
• Part-time Workers Regulations
• Temporary Workers Regulations
• Disability Discrimination Act

More information is available from the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform website.

If you think that any of these legal rights are being breached, contact your local PCS rep or bargaining unit for further advice.