Employers must follow the legal rules on working hours and ensure that employees receive proper breaks and rest periods. These minimum standards exist to protect your health, safety, and wellbeing at work.

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Employees aged 18 and over are generally entitled to three types of rest:

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Types of rest for workers aged 18+

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• rest breaks during the working day,

• daily rest,

• weekly rest.

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Rest breaks during the working day

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If you work more than 6 hours a day, you are entitled to at least one uninterrupted 20‑minute break.

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This can be used for tea, lunch, or simply to rest.

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Whether the break is paid depends on your contract of employment.

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Daily rest

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You are entitled to 11 consecutive hours of rest between working days.

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For example, if you finish work at 8pm, you should not start again before 7am the next day.

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Weekly rest

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You are entitled to either:

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• 24 hours of uninterrupted rest each week, or

• 48 hours of uninterrupted rest each fortnight.

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Additional rights

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Your employment contract may offer longer or more generous breaks than the legal minimum. It’s always worth checking the terms.

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When to seek advice

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Common issues employees face include:

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• not being allowed proper breaks,

• breaks being too short or interrupted,

• schedules that prevent daily or weekly rest,

• pressure to work excessive hours.

 

If you’re unsure whether your working hours or breaks comply with the law, I can review your situation and explain your rights.