Reduction in pay

[chattykathy]

My fella and his co-workers have had a pay cut of 15% imposed on them. There is just as much work as usual, if not more so can the boss be allowed to do this? They have never had a written contract ( I know that this doesn't necessarily matter) We think he 's just taking the pi$$. No-one is in a union so what can be done?

[padanarm]

An employee is entitled a written copy of their terms and conditions of employment and a written wageslip. The wageslip can be used to demonstrate that there was an agreement over hours and rate of pay.

If the employer (or employee) wants to change the conditions of employment agreement - including rate of pay - then both parties usually have to agree to it unless the contract includes a variation term.

See the CAB Advice Guide leaflet on Employment Contract.

[Androcles]

Sometimes, despite the legal situation correctly described by padanarm, some action needs to be taken to get the employer to engage. If his co-workers agree, I am sure that a discreet 15% reduction in productivity might get the boss's attention, especially if he has so much work , he starts to get chased by customers. If he complains point out the fact that he has not provided a statement of terms and conditions.

[chattykathy]

Thanks for your answers. It boils down to either taking legal action against the company and risk losing your job or just accepting it. These bosses taking full advantage of the economic situation and other people losing their jobs really annoy me and it shouldn't be allowed. People shouldn't have to put their jobs on the line in order to stop this practice. Androcles, be assured no-one is busting a gut there!!