Working time, breaks and holidays

The law relating to your working time is complicated. Some bad employers take advantage of this to deny staff their rights. Others may not understand what the law requires.

Step by step, this leaflet explains weekly hours limits and night working limits; and your rights to breaks, rest periods and paid holiday.

This publication is just a short guide, not a full statement of the law. If your rights are being ignored get advice from your trade union about taking action to enforce them. For further information on other rights at work, visit www.tuc.org.uk/know-your-rights

The TUC publishes a series of free booklets explaining your rights at work and dealing with other common workplace problems. Know Your Rights booklets