Responding to Office of National Statistics figures published today (Wednesday) that show that the number of workers on zero-hours contracts has increased to 905,000, UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said:
“Zero-hours contracts are everywhere in social care. They give the upper hand to unscrupulous employers and silence employees who fear they’ll lose hours if they speak out about poor practice or illegal pay. Their use also stops care workers from building relationships with the people they care for.
“The lack of regular hours on these contracts make it impossible for care workers to know how much they’re being paid. This lets employers get away with paying below the legal minimum.
“Councils must stop ignoring the use of zero-hours in the care sector and end the damage they cause to both care staff and the people they support.”
Media contacts:
Joe Lewis T: 0207 121 5255 M: 07970 863 411 E: j.lewis5@unison.co.uk
Alan Weaver T: 0207 121 5555 M: 07939 143310 E: a.weaver@unison.co.uk
