At Currington & Co Solicitors, based in the heart of Leeds, we understand how complex and intimidating employment law can seem. For most people, the workplace is where they spend a significant portion of their lives — yet many are unsure about their legal rights or what to do if something goes wrong.
In this guide, we aim to demystify employment law, helping you understand your workplace rights and, most importantly, how to protect them. Whether you’re facing unfair treatment, have questions about your contract, or simply want to know what protections exist under the law, this article is designed to provide clarity and expert advice.
Understanding Employment Law: The Basics
Employment law in the UK governs the relationship between employers and employees. It sets out the rights and obligations both parties owe each other, covering everything from working hours and pay to discrimination, redundancy, and dismissal.
Key pieces of legislation include:
-
The Employment Rights Act 1996
-
The Equality Act 2010
-
The Working Time Regulations 1998
-
The National Minimum Wage Act 1998
These laws aim to create fair, safe, and respectful working environments. But knowing the law exists is not always enough — understanding how it applies to you personally is crucial.
Your Key Workplace Rights
Let’s break down some of the fundamental rights employees have under UK employment law.
✅ The Right to a Written Statement of Terms
From day one of your employment, you are entitled to a written statement outlining the main terms and conditions of your job. This includes details about your role, salary, working hours, and holiday entitlement. If you haven’t received this, your employer is already in breach of employment law.
✅ The Right to Equal Pay
The Equality Act 2010 ensures that men and women receive equal pay for equal work. This doesn’t just cover salary but also bonuses, overtime rates, and pension schemes. If you suspect you’re being underpaid compared to a colleague of the opposite sex doing similar work, you may have grounds for an equal pay claim.
✅ Protection from Unfair Dismissal
Once you’ve worked for your employer for two years, you are generally protected against unfair dismissal. This means you cannot be dismissed without a fair reason (such as misconduct, redundancy, or capability) and without following a proper process.
✅ The Right to a Safe Workplace
Employers have a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure your working environment is safe and does not pose a risk to your health. This includes proper training, suitable equipment, and addressing workplace hazards.
✅ Protection Against Discrimination
Under the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from discrimination based on characteristics like age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Discrimination can happen during recruitment, in promotions, or even in the way colleagues treat you.
Common Workplace Issues – And How to Handle Them
At Currington & Co, we regularly advise clients facing a wide range of workplace challenges. Here are some of the most common — and what you can do if they arise.
1️⃣ Unfair or Wrongful Dismissal
Being dismissed can be a devastating experience, particularly if you feel you’ve been treated unfairly. Unfair dismissal relates to whether the reason and process for your dismissal were fair under employment law, while wrongful dismissal typically concerns breach of contract (such as not being given proper notice).
If you believe you’ve been unfairly or wrongfully dismissed, act quickly. You only have three months (minus one day) from the date your employment ends to bring a claim to the Employment Tribunal. Seek legal advice as soon as possible so we can assess your case and guide you on the best course of action.
2️⃣ Discrimination and Harassment
Discrimination can be subtle or overt, but both are unlawful. Harassment — unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that violates your dignity or creates a hostile environment — is also prohibited under the Equality Act.
If you experience discrimination or harassment, keep detailed records: dates, times, what happened, who was involved, and any witnesses. Raise the issue internally through your company’s grievance procedure. If this does not resolve the matter, you may need to escalate it further through legal channels. Our team at Currington & Co can support you at every stage.
3️⃣ Contractual Disputes
Employment contracts can sometimes contain unclear or unfair terms — or employers may fail to uphold their side of the agreement. Whether it’s about bonuses, commission payments, restrictive covenants, or non-compete clauses, these disputes can significantly impact your income and career.
It’s vital to have any contractual dispute carefully reviewed by a solicitor. We can help negotiate with your employer, advise on enforceability, and, if necessary, take formal action to protect your interests.
4️⃣ Redundancy
Redundancy should never be used as a disguise for unfair dismissal. Employers must follow a fair redundancy process, including proper consultation and selection procedures, and pay any statutory or contractual redundancy payments you’re entitled to.
If you feel you’ve been unfairly selected for redundancy or haven’t received the correct payments, you may have grounds to challenge it. We can help you understand your redundancy rights and whether you have a case.
How to Protect Yourself at Work
While the law offers strong protections, the reality is that many employees are unaware of their rights or unsure how to enforce them. Here are practical steps you can take to safeguard yourself:
✅ Know Your Contract
Read and understand your employment contract thoroughly. If anything is unclear, seek legal advice — we’re here to help interpret complex clauses and ensure your rights are protected.
✅ Document Everything
Keep records of key workplace interactions, including appraisals, emails, grievances, and complaints. If a dispute arises, having a clear paper trail can significantly strengthen your position.
✅ Follow Company Procedures
Most companies have grievance and disciplinary procedures set out in their staff handbook or policies. Follow these carefully — not only does this show you’ve acted reasonably, but failing to follow internal procedures can sometimes weaken a future legal claim.
✅ Seek Early Legal Advice
The earlier you get advice, the better. Whether it’s reviewing a settlement agreement, challenging unfair treatment, or navigating redundancy, timely legal support can make all the difference. At Currington & Co, we offer expert guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring you’re equipped to make informed decisions.
What to Do If You Need Help
If you believe your workplace rights have been breached, don’t panic — but don’t delay either. Here’s what we recommend:
-
Raise the Issue Internally – Where possible, speak to your manager or HR department. Sometimes, issues can be resolved informally or through the company’s formal grievance procedure.
-
Seek Expert Advice – Contact an experienced employment solicitor who can assess your case, advise you on your legal rights, and explain your options.
-
Consider Formal Action – If internal resolution fails, you may need to pursue legal remedies. This could involve making a claim to an Employment Tribunal or negotiating a settlement agreement. We can guide you every step of the way.
Why Choose Currington & Co Solicitors?
At Currington & Co Solicitors, we pride ourselves on providing expert, compassionate, and practical employment law advice to individuals across Leeds and beyond. Our solicitors combine in-depth legal knowledge with a genuine understanding of the challenges employees face.
When you work with us, you can expect:
-
Clear, jargon-free advice so you know exactly where you stand.
-
Tailored strategies that reflect your unique situation.
-
Strong negotiation and representation skills to help achieve the best possible outcome.
-
Confidentiality and professionalism throughout the process.
Whether you need a one-off consultation or full representation in a dispute, we’re here to support you.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your workplace rights isn’t just about knowing the law — it’s about feeling empowered to stand up for yourself when necessary. At Currington & Co Solicitors, we believe everyone deserves to work in a fair, safe, and respectful environment. If you’re facing challenges at work or simply want to understand your rights better, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact Currington & Co Solicitors today for expert employment law advice that puts your needs first. Your rights matter — let’s protect them together.