A zero-hours contract is a Contract of Employment which, while meeting the requirements of the Employment Rights Act 1996 by providing a written statement of the terms and conditions of employment, contains provisions which creates an "on-call" arrangement between the club and its staff.

It does not oblige the club to provide work for its staff, nor does it oblige the staff to accept the work offered. The member of staff agrees to be available for work as and when required, so that no particular hours or times of work are specified. The members of the club's staff are expected to be on call and receive payment only for hours worked. Zero-hours contracts may be ideal for some people who want occasional earnings and are able to be entirely flexible about when they work.

If zero-hours contracts are identified as the best option, clubs need to be clear about what type of arrangements will suit and what this means in terms of their responsibilities as an employer and the employment rights of the staff that are engaged in this way. Because "zero-hours contract" does not have a specific meaning in law, it is important for clubs to ensure that written contracts contain provisions setting out the status, rights and obligations of any zerohours staff.

Research among more than 2,500 workers by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development has revealed that zerohours employees are more likely to be satisfied with their work-life balance than other staff, regardless of the contract type. The use of zero-hours contracts had been around for years before they were demonised, got on to the political agenda and took the usual (unjustified) ritual hammering by some elements of the media. Careful consideration needs to be given, however, by any club contemplating the use of zero-hours contracts. The main reason for the use of zero-hours contracts being highly criticised, is not the use of zero-hours contracts themselves but poor management. Properly managed, zero-hours contracts will, in the right circumstances, be of immense benefit both the club and its staff. This article is not intended to be a substitute of professional advice. If your club is contemplating the use of zero-hours contracts, speak to your Branch Secretary first.