Under UK law, every employee is entitled to a written statement of employment particulars from their first day of work. While this is technically distinct from a full employment contract, in practice most employers combine both into a single document. Getting this right is essential — an incomplete or missing contract leaves your business exposed to tribunal claims and makes it harder to enforce key terms.
Mandatory Terms (Day One)
The following must be provided on or before the employee's start date:
- Names — employer and employee
- Start date — and the date continuous employment began (if different)
- Job title or description — a clear summary of the role
- Pay — amount, frequency, and method of payment
- Working hours — including any requirements around overtime
- Holiday entitlement — including public holidays and how it accrues
- Workplace location — and whether the employee may be required to work elsewhere
- Probationary period — duration and conditions
- Benefits — any non-pay benefits such as pension contributions
- Training requirements — including any mandatory training and whether it's paid for by the employer
Additional Terms (Within Two Months)
The following can be provided in a supplementary document within two months:
- Sickness absence and sick pay procedures
- Notice periods for both parties
- Disciplinary and grievance procedures
- Pension arrangements
- Collective agreements that affect terms
Best Practice Additions
Beyond the legal minimums, a well-drafted employment contract should also cover:
- Restrictive covenants — non-compete and non-solicitation clauses
- Confidentiality — obligations around sensitive business information
- Intellectual property — ownership of work created during employment
- Garden leave — the right to require an employee to stay away from work during their notice period
A properly drafted contract protects both the business and the employee. Our contracts and handbooks service ensures your documentation is legally compliant and tailored to your business. Get in touch for a free review of your current contracts.