Part-time work in 2021 – Know your rights

We’re delighted to continue our series of blogs on “Part-time work in 2021” with some great advice from Anna Dryburgh, Recruitment Coordinator, on your employment rights and ways you can stay safe while job searching.

Perhaps you have already started looking for part-time work or may be you haven’t thought about it yet. Whatever stage you are at, we are here to help. It may be that you’re looking for something to fill those summer months or something more immediate. So… keep an eye out over the next few months on Inform.ed and our social media channels for updates and advice on finding part-time work.

What should I look out for?

Unfortunately, not all employers are genuine. If you feel a job opportunity looks too good to be true, trust your instincts. Be wary of employers who ask you:

  • For bank details when you apply
  • To pay for training or stock before you work
  • To invest or send them money

You can read more on our website about staying safe and spotting scams. Please note that all employers and vacancies on MyCareerHub have been checked and approved by the Careers Service.

What should I expect from an employer?

If you have a contract with your employer, you are now entitled to a number of employment rights. These include:

If your role is performed on a self-employed or freelance basis, you will not be covered by employment legislation, including national minimum wage and statutory sick pay. You might also be responsible for your own national insurance and tax contributions.

If you are an international student, you cannot work on a self-employed basis. Please check your visa and read this information from the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) on what kind of work you can do. The University’s Student Immigration Service can provide advice on UK student visas.

If you are ever unsure of your working status, we would recommend investigating this further with your employer.

More information on employment rights can be found on the gov.uk website.

What can I do if I think I have been treated unfairly at work?

Firstly, we are sorry if you have had a negative experience with an employer. If you found the employer through MyCareerHub please get in touch with the Careers Service to notify us. We take all student feedback very seriously and your experiences can determine how, or if we work, with an employer in the future.

The Advice Place, based within the Students’ Association, can provide legal and non-legal advice for students who have been treated unfairly at work. Some examples might include discrimination at work or not getting paid.

Some interesting jobs currently advertised on MyCareerHub

  • Need a job that offers flexible working hours during your studies? Why not apply to this Services Assistant role within one of the UK’s largest supermarkets?
  • Want a job that allows you to easily balance both study and work? Becoming a campus Student Ambassador may be the role for you.
  • Do you want an active job that aligns with your sports interests? Why not consider becoming a Lifeguard, Swimming Teacher or Pool Assistant?
  • Want to make a positive impact in someone’s life? Have you considered becoming a Personal Assistant? The Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living are recruiting for multiple posts.

Thanks Anna.

(Image credit: Gerd Altmann on Pixabay)

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