The Law
You can't just go out and get any job at 16. There are certain national and local laws you should be aware of before you go and get your first paycheque!
There are strict regulations covering the hours young people can work and the minimum age for working. The law regulates the basic conditions of employment for young people of school age in order to protect their health and safety and prevent exploitation.
The following information offers guidance for 16-18 year olds.
You stop being of compulsory school age on the last Friday in June in the school year in which you turn 16 - this means you may be 15 years and 10 months and no longer of school age or 16 years and 10 months and still be of school age, if your birthday is in September.
The National Law and Hours of Work for Young People
The law states that young people may only do work which isn't going to be harmful to the safety, health and development of the person.
If you are of compulsory school age, you are not allowed to work:
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If you are under 13.
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During school hours.
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Before 7am or after 7pm.
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For more than 2 hours on a school weekday.
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For more than 1 hour before school starts.
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For more than 12 hours a week during term time.
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For more than 2 hours on Sundays.
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For more than 5 hours on Saturdays during term time.
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For more than 5 hours (if aged under 15) or 8 hours (if 15 or over) on Saturdays and weekdays during school holidays.
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For more than 25 hours a week (if aged under 15) or 35 hours a week (if 15 or over) during school holidays.
You are also entitled to daily and annual rest breaks:
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You must not work for more than 4 hours consecutively. You must have a break of at least 1 hour every 4 hours.
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There must be a period of 2 weeks during any of your school holidays of the year in which you don't work.
Local by-laws
The Children and Young Persons Act 1933 allows your local authority to make by-laws in this area to restrict your employment hours, the conditions and the types of jobs you are allowed to do. They are not designed to stop you making money; they are in place for your own well being. You can obtain a copy of these from your local library, the council or education office.
The laws can vary from one area to another so it is best to check them out before you start any type of work. The by-laws set out the jobs all young people are not allowed to do, which might include working in cinemas, theatres and nightclubs, collecting money door-to-door or delivering milk. Street trading is only allowed for those aged 14 and over if they are employed by their parents and have a licence from their local authority. All by-laws require employers of young people of school age to register with the local education authority and apply for a work permit for the young person.
Treading the boards
There are also regulations for acting, modelling and sports… You must get a licence from the local authority if you want to take part in a performance where people are paying to see it; which is in licensed premises or which is broadcast. You need a license to take part in a professional sport, or work as a model. You are allowed to perform up to 4 days in a period of 6 months without a license. You can take part in unpaid performances arranged by schools.
The Minimum Wage
For more information ring The National Minimum Wage Help line on 0845 6000 678 or click on the following web links:
Business Link
The Children's Legal Centre
The Citizens Advice Bureau