1 in 10 workers ‘told to re-apply for their jobs on worse terms’

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to nearly 1 in 10 workers being told to re-apply for their jobs on worse terms and conditions or face the sack, according to research by the TUC.

Joanne Stronach Director & Head of Employment & HR reports.

Almost a quarter say their working terms, such as pay or hours, have been downgraded since the first lockdown in March.

The TUC commissioned an online survey of 2,231 workers in England and Wales between 19 and 29 November last year. All respondents were either in work, on furlough, or recently made redundant.

These are some of the main findings:

• nearly a fifth of (18%) of 18 to 24-year-olds say their employer has tried to re-hire them on inferior terms during the pandemic  

• working-class people (12%) are nearly twice as likely than those from higher socio-economic groups (7%) to have been told to re-apply for their jobs under worse terms and conditions  

• BAME workers (15%) have been faced with “fire and rehire” at nearly twice the rate of white workers (8%).  

The TUC says “fire and re-hire” tactics are being used across a range of industries.  

The polling also reveals that nearly a quarter (24%) of workers in Britain have experienced a downgrading of their terms during the crisis – including through reduced pay or changes to their hours.  

Around two-fifths (38%) of workers say they are worried about job security in the year ahead.  

Ben Willmott, head of public policy at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development,

warned that forcing a change to an employment contract by dismissing someone and rehiring on different terms should be a last resort.

He added: “Employers must consider all alternatives and do everything possible to try and reach a voluntary agreement.”

Any employer considering making changes of this kind should seek legal advice because it is a difficult process and if it isn’t carried out correctly, employees may be able to claim unfair dismissal.

If you would more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of employment law please contact Joanne on 01228 516666 or click here to send her an email.