The labor market in the United Kingdom

The work market is quite open in the UK though many jobs were lately destroyed by the recent financial and economical crisis. Thanks to a weak pound, the tourism sector is quite vigourous and many jobs are needed in the catering and hotel industries.

The work market being very flexible, finding a job is not very difficult provided that you don't need a visa or a work permit. Frequent staff turnover will result in many professional opportunities. As a consequence, you may find a position very quickly; conversely, you may lose your job as easily. 

In the UK, the geographical distribution of jobs is not homogenous. It will be easier to find a job in the southeast of the realm than in the North or in Northern Ireland for instance, London offering many jobs thus attracting many new immigrants. A quality job in the United Kingdom implies good commands of English. Nevertheless, basic knowledge of English is enough for unskilled jobs.

There are different minimum wages in effect in the United Kingdom: from October 1st, 2008 onwards, workers over 22 years old get a minimum wage of £ 5.73 per hour; workers aged between 18 to 21 years old get a minimum wage of £ 4.77 per hour; finally, workers aged under 18 are entitled to a minimum of £ 3.53 per hour. The minimum wages are revised each year in October.

Legal working time in the UK is set at a maximum of 48 hours per week. Workers can decide to work up to 48 hours weekly if they want to. However, they can work a fewer number of hours per week if they clearly mention it in their work contract.

In case of dispute with your employer, you can contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Services (Acas) to set up a conciliation meeting. If no solution has been found, then contact the employment court (Industrial court in Ulster).

 Useful links:

Directgov – Public services all in one place – jobs, work contracts, minimum wages and more 

http://www.direct.gov.uk/

ACAS - Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Services

http://www.acas.org.uk/

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