The 2017 Unpaid Britain report found that the equivalent of 1.8 million workers in the UK do not receive the minimum holiday pay that they are legally entitled to. The campaign is part of the government’s response to these figures, and the wider Taylor Review of workers’ rights.
Research conducted by Kantar alongside the launch of the campaign found a clear lack of knowledge amongst workers around their holiday pay entitlement. For instance, 52% of those surveyed incorrectly thought they had to work for three months before they were entitled to holiday pay. The independent poll of 2,000 people conducted by Kantar also found that:
- 76% thought all workers, apart from self-employed, are entitled to holiday pay.
- 46% incorrectly thought only people working in permanent jobs were entitled to holiday pay.
- 50% incorrectly thought workers on zero hours contracts don’t qualify for holiday pay.
- 72% feel able to take full entitlement of holiday pay without repercussions.
- 79% feel confident talking to my employer if my holiday pay is wrong.
- 59% know where to go for advice on holiday pay rights.
- 83% feel more productive, happy and refreshed after taking a holiday.
Julia Kermode, CEO, Freelancer & Contractor Services Association, said: “Holiday pay is a basic right that all workers are entitled to, yet there is not enough awareness of this fact. This is particularly true for temporary and contract workers who could easily be missing out on what is rightfully theirs. That’s why I am supporting this campaign. I want to encourage everyone to make sure that they receive holiday pay; it not just something for permanent employees but something that should be enjoyed by all workers.”
