Part Time Work
In the UK, part time work plays a vital role in providing flexibility for people who wish to balance employment with other responsibilities. Whether you are caring for family, studying, approaching retirement, or simply prefer shorter working weeks, part-time employment can be an excellent option. However, understanding your rights and knowing what constitutes part time hours versus full time work hours is crucial for making informed career decisions.
What is Part Time Work
Part time work refers to any role in which an employee works fewer hours than a full time employee doing the same or similar job. In the UK, there is no legally defined number of hours that make a job part time, but generally, part-time employees work fewer than 35 hours per week. Employers typically determine what counts as part time within their organisation, as long as they remain consistent and fair in their policies.
Part-time employment offers flexibility and diversity across sectors, from retail and hospitality to education, healthcare, and professional services. Many UK businesses rely on part-time staff to manage fluctuating workloads, ensuring economic stability and operational efficiency.
How many hours is part time in the UK
Although there is no single legal definition, part time hours in the UK generally range from 16 to 30 hours per week. Some employees may work slightly more or less depending on their contract, role, and industry. For example, a part-time retail worker might work 20 hours a week across several shifts, while an administrative assistant might work 28 hours spread over four days.
The key distinction is that part time work involves working fewer hours than someone in a comparable full time position.
What are full time work hours in the UK
Full time hours in the UK typically range between 35 and 40 hours per week, depending on the employer’s standard practice. Many full time employees work eight hours per day across five working days, although flexible or compressed hours may apply.
There is no specific legal minimum for full time work, but the Working Time Regulations 1998 establish a maximum average of 48 hours per week (unless an employee has agreed to opt out of this limit).
Rights of Part Time Workers
Part time workers have the same basic employment rights as full time workers. Employers cannot treat part-time staff less favourably just because they work fewer hours. This includes:
- Equal pay: Part-time employees must receive the same hourly rate as comparable full-time staff.
- Holiday entitlement: Holiday pay should be calculated on a pro-rata basis relative to full time workers.
- Pension rights: Eligibility for workplace pensions applies to part-time workers who meet the minimum earnings threshold.
- Training and career progression: Employers must provide equal access to training, promotions, and professional development.
- Protection from unfair treatment: Part-time staff are protected by the Part-Time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000, ensuring equality in pay, benefits, and working conditions.
Advantages of part time work
Part time work can benefit both employees and employers. Workers gain flexibility to manage personal commitments, while employers can adapt staffing levels to demand. For many, part-time roles offer a route into employment, a means to retrain, or a gradual transition to retirement.
Hours and pay structure
Part-time employees are typically paid by the hour, though some roles may offer salaried contracts based on reduced hours. Overtime rules, holiday pay, and sick pay should be calculated in proportion to a full-time equivalent role. Employers must also issue written contracts specifying part time hours per week and expected duties.
Supporting UK workers through flexible employment
At The Workers Union, we recognise that part time work represents a cornerstone of modern employment, offering flexibility and inclusion to millions of UK workers. Whether you are balancing studies, family life, or other commitments, understanding your rights as a part time employee ensures you can make the most of your working life while protecting your interests at work.
Our mission remains clear — to support and guide workers in every corner of the UK. If you have concerns about your working hours, treatment at work, or contractual rights, The Workers Union is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Part time work in the UK generally means working fewer than 35 hours per week, but this can vary between employers. Most part time jobs fall between 16 and 30 hours weekly.
Full time work usually ranges from 35 to 40 hours a week. The legal working time limit averages 48 hours per week, unless you opt out of that restriction.
Part time employment typically involves fewer hours than full time work. If a full-time employee works 37.5 hours, a part-time employee might work 20 or 25 hours under similar conditions.
You’re usually classed as full time if you work 35 hours or more each week, but this can vary depending on company policy.
Typical part time hours in the UK can range from 16 to 30 hours a week, often divided into shorter daily shifts or fewer working days.
Yes. Part-time workers can work overtime if the employer offers additional hours. Overtime pay is often calculated after reaching the same number of hours as a comparable full time employee.
Yes. Under UK law, part-time employees must receive equal treatment in pay rates, holidays, pensions, and training opportunities compared with full time colleagues.
Holiday entitlement is based on the full-time equivalent. For example, if a full-time worker receives 28 days’ annual leave, a part-time employee working half the hours would receive 14 days.
Employers can specify contractual hours for part time staff, but additional hours must be agreed upon. Any restrictions should be clearly stated in the employment contract.
Yes. Part time employees qualify for statutory sick pay and pension contributions if they meet minimum earnings thresholds.
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