The workplace should be a space where people feel safe, respected, and treated fairly. But when problems arise between an employee and employer, understanding your legal rights becomes crucial. Employment law exists to provide that protection, yet many workers in Widnes are unsure of what they are entitled to or how to respond when things go wrong.
At Marley Solicitors, we regularly support individuals from across Widnes who are facing difficult or unclear situations at work. In this post, we explain key employee rights, outline what to do if something feels unfair, and highlight how local legal advice can make a real difference.
What employment law actually covers
Employment law refers to the rules and rights that govern how employers and employees relate to each other. These laws apply from the moment you are offered a job and continue throughout your time at the organisation.
For employees in Widnes, these protections apply whether you work for a local business, a national company, or are part of the public sector. Employment law can relate to:
- Your employment contract
- Wages, hours, and leave
- Unfair dismissal
- Redundancy procedures
- Discrimination and workplace behaviour
- Health and safety
- Whistleblowing protection
Even if your employer does not mention these rights, they are often guaranteed by law.
Your basic rights at work
Many workers are unaware that their legal entitlements begin on their first day. Others may assume that unless something is written in a contract, it does not apply. In reality, the law provides minimum standards that every employer must follow.
These include:
- Written terms of employment — You should receive a written summary of your main job terms, including pay and hours, on or before your first working day.
- Fair pay — You must receive at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, depending on your age.
- Paid holidays — Full-time workers are legally entitled to at least 28 days of paid leave a year (this can include bank holidays).
- Breaks and working hours — You are entitled to rest breaks and protected from excessively long hours under the Working Time Regulations.
- Protection from discrimination — Employers must not treat you unfairly based on age, sex, race, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Statutory sick pay — If you are off work due to illness for more than four days, you may be entitled to SSP, subject to conditions.
- Parental rights — If you become pregnant or adopt, you are likely to qualify for maternity, paternity, or parental leave and pay.
It is important to understand that many of these rights apply even if your contract is silent or unclear.
Common challenges employees in Widnes face
While many people have a positive experience at work, some encounter serious difficulties. At Marley Solicitors, we often advise clients from Widnes dealing with the following problems:
Being treated unfairly or dismissed without reason
Losing a job suddenly, or without a clear explanation, is not just upsetting, it can also be unlawful. UK law says that, in most cases, employees with two or more years of service cannot be dismissed unless there is a fair reason and a proper process is followed.
Common unfair dismissal scenarios include:
- Being sacked without warning or disciplinary action
- Losing your job after raising concerns about safety or pay
- Dismissal following maternity leave or illness
- Being replaced for a reason that feels discriminatory
Even if you have worked for less than two years, you may still have protection in cases involving discrimination or whistleblowing.
Redundancy used in the wrong way
Redundancy is a legal way for employers to reduce staff numbers. But it must be genuine and carried out with proper consultation. If only one or two employees are selected, there should be a clear and fair reason why.
If you feel you were unfairly chosen, or your employer did not follow the correct process, you might have grounds to challenge it.
Discrimination or harassment
Every employee has the right to work without being treated unfairly due to who they are. This includes discrimination related to gender, race, disability, age, religion, or sexual orientation.
Examples of unlawful treatment include:
- Offensive jokes or comments
- Being overlooked for promotion
- Dismissal or poor treatment after disclosing a medical condition
- Less favourable pay than colleagues in similar roles
It is not just major incidents that count. Persistent low-level mistreatment or exclusion can also amount to discrimination.
Not being paid correctly
Wage disputes are more common than many realise. Whether you are missing overtime, not receiving your agreed salary, or having unexplained deductions from your pay, your employer may be breaking the law.
Holiday pay, in particular, is an area where mistakes are frequent. If you regularly work extra hours and your holiday pay does not reflect this, you may be entitled to claim back pay.
What to do if you think your rights are being ignored
You do not need to accept unfair treatment at work. If you believe your employer is acting unlawfully or unfairly, there are steps you can take.
- Keep clear records
Save emails, notes of conversations, payslips, and any relevant documents. This will help if you need to raise a grievance or make a claim later.
- Speak to someone you trust
Before jumping to conclusions, speak to a colleague or your line manager. Sometimes a misunderstanding can be resolved quickly.
- Use your workplace grievance process
If informal discussion does not help, follow your employer’s formal grievance procedure. You are entitled to raise concerns in writing and receive a response.
- Get advice from a solicitor
If the problem continues, legal advice can help you understand your position. Solicitors like us can check your contract, explain your rights, and guide you through next steps.
- Consider a claim
If there is no resolution, you may need to take formal action. Most employment tribunal claims must begin within three months minus one day from the date of the issue, so acting quickly is important.
Why choosing a solicitor in Widnes can make a difference
While employment law applies nationwide, having a solicitor based in Widnes or familiar with the area means you receive support from someone who understands the local job market, employer culture, and common employment patterns.
At Marley Solicitors, we provide:
- Accessible advice for workers in all industries
- Flexible appointments (in person or remote)
- Clear explanations without legal jargon
- Skilled negotiation with employers
- Representation in employment tribunals if needed
We support clients in logistics, retail, healthcare, education, and other sectors across Widnes and surrounding areas.
Our services for employees
Our employment law team can help with:
- Reviewing and advising on employment contracts
- Disciplinary and grievance support
- Settlement agreement advice and negotiation
- Redundancy reviews and appeals
- Claims for discrimination, harassment, or unfair dismissal
- Wage and holiday pay disputes
Even if you are unsure whether you have a case, we can talk through your concerns and help you decide what to do next.
You do not have to face workplace issues alone
Workplace problems can affect not just your income, but your confidence and wellbeing too. Knowing your rights and seeking early advice can make a real difference.
If you live or work in Widnes and have concerns about how you are being treated at work, speak to Marley Solicitors. We are here to help you understand your options and protect your future.
Contact our employment law team today to book a confidential consultation.
