Have they the right to cut my hours with no notice?

Question

I have worked 16 contracted hours per week in a shop for the past 2 years, plus occaisonal overtime, always excelling on sales, attendance and performance. Now I have just been told today that I, (as well as others) am having my hours slashed by half, as the company cannot afford to pay the hours. I am expected to give 4 weeks notice if I leave, why cant they give me the same notice? Someone I know outside the company who has worked as a shop manager informs me that this is illegal. Before I go and sign on the dole, is there action against the company that I should be taking?

thank you for all advice..

Yours in tears and panic!

I now understand that I would have recieved a copy of contractual paperwork in the post when i started, as the other employees seem to have done, however I have never recieved this..

Answer 1

Best to check with your work rules that you got when you were hired. With most companies they do not have to give you any notice prior to cutting hours or firing anyone. Think you are required to give a 2 weeks notice, but many people don't do this. Sometimes if you don't give notice you don't get your full benefits or accrued vacation. See if you can get ahold of your companies policy. Best of luck to you.

Answer 2

Prior to any changes the company should have had a meeting with all employees or each individual letting them know that the company is suffering financial issues and they will probably be doing some cut backs. Please do seek advise before signing on any dotted line. Contact your Equal Employment Office and seek advise from them also.