As a professional, it’s important to understand the topic of employment law and contractual agreements. One common question that arises in the workplace is whether employers can change contracted hours without notice. The answer isn’t always straightforward, so let’s take a closer look at the implications of changing contracted hours as an employer or employee.

Firstly, it’s important to distinguish between a contract of employment and an employment agreement. A contract of employment is a legally binding agreement between an employer and an employee, outlining terms such as hours of work, pay, and benefits. An employment agreement may be less formal and may not be legally binding, but it still outlines key terms and conditions for employment.

Generally speaking, employers may be able to change the hours of work set out in an employment agreement if they have a valid business reason for doing so, and they follow the correct procedure. This might include consulting with an employee or offering compensation for any adverse effects of the change.

However, if the hours of work are set out in a contract of employment, it’s generally not possible for an employer to change them without the employee’s agreement, unless the contract allows for the change. This is because a contract of employment is a legally binding agreement, and any changes must be agreed to by both parties.

That being said, there are some situations where an employer may be able to make changes to a contract of employment without the employee’s agreement, such as changes to pay or terms of employment due to a restructuring or redundancy. In these cases, employers must follow a fair process and consult with employees before making any changes.

Furthermore, it’s important to note that employees also have rights. If an employer tries to change contracted hours without following the correct procedure or without a valid business reason, an employee may be able to make a claim for breach of contract or constructive dismissal.

In conclusion, contracted hours can be changed without notice under certain circumstances, but it’s crucial that employers follow the correct procedure and have valid reasons for doing so. As an employee, it’s important to know your rights and seek legal advice if you feel your employer is breaching your contract of employment.