When it comes to employment, there are many different types of contracts.
Employers offer specific types of contracts based on their business needs at the time. For example, if they want to replace a person who has left their company they may offer a 'Permanent' contract, whereas if there is a short-term project that needs completing they may offer a 'Fixed Term' contract.
Different Types of Contract
Although they may all sound a little similar, it is really important you understand the difference between all contracts before you apply for a role, as each contract comes with varying rights in regards to holiday, sick leave and other company policies. Our guide below details the basics of some of the different contract types.
Permanent
This type of contract is normally associated with a full time role, and means you are employed by an organisation. When you have passed your probation period you may be entitled to access company benefits such as sick pay, medical cover or a pension scheme.
Fixed Term
This means that a contract of employment will end on a pre-defined specific date, or after a specific period of time. These are often to cover another staff member who is on extended leave, or to complete a specific project. Fixed Term contracts are sometimes referred to as Seasonal contracts as they relate to the period that industries, such as hospitality, are busy and need staff.
JACS has some advice and information about Fixed Term contracts in Jersey, click the link below to see their information.
JACS - Fixed Term Contracts
Temporary
Temporary contracts are very similar to Fixed Term contracts in that they are for a limited time period, however the main difference is that the exact end date is not pre-determined or if it is, it is subject to change. Temporary contracts are offered when a contract is not expected to be made permanent.
Zero Hours
A Zero Hours contract is a formal agreement between an individual and an employer where the individual works for the employer, but the employer does not guarantee any set hours or future work. Not all Zero Hours contracts entitle the employee to sick pay or other company benefits such as a pension. JACS have produced an example of what is included in a Zero Hours contract, you can see this here:
JACS - Zero Hour Contracts
Reviewing & signing your contract
A signed contract shows you have agreed to the terms and conditions of employment offered to you. Normally you will sign two copies of a contract - one is for you to keep, the other is for your employer. It is important to keep your copy so you can refer to it if you need to. If your role changes, for example if you are moved from a fixed term contract to a permanent contract, you should receive a new contract detailing this and any additional benefits.
When you receive your contract, let your Employment Coordinator know so you can go through it together to make sure you understand your entitlements before you sign it. JET can also keep a copy of your contract on our records so that we can have reference to it should any queries arise or we need to engage with your employer over any issues.
Contracts and Income Support
If you are on Income Support, Customer and Local Services need to be informed about the type of contract you are on. If you are on a Zero Hours contract, your hours may be different each week, which will impact the money you receive under your Income Support claim. Hence, it is important you keep them up to date each week/month with your payslips. If you don't regularly advise Customer and Local Services how much you have earned you risk being given too much Income Support and having to pay this money back. Please refer to our Change in Circumstances section for further information.
If you have any questions about your contract, please speak to your Employer or your Employment Coordinator.