Working hours, rest and leave

Working hours

Under the Working Time Regulations, most workers cannot be required to work more than an average of 48 hours a week unless they agree in writing to opt out. You can cancel an opt-out with notice.

Rest

Most adult workers are entitled to:

• 11 hours' rest between working days;
• one day off each week (or two days a fortnight);
• a 20-minute break when working more than six hours.

Leading five daily prayers can mean very long, fragmented days. Rotas should be designed so that these rights are respected.

Holiday

Most workers are entitled to 5.6 weeks' paid holiday a year (28 days for a five-day week), which can include bank holidays.

Sickness and family leave

Eligible employees are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave and pay, and time off for dependants in emergencies.

General information only — not legal advice.