This guide focuses on fixed-term employees. Fixed-term employees are employed under contracts that will:  

  • last for a set length of time (for example, one year)  
  • end when a specific task is completed (for example, when a project finishes) 
  • end when a specific event takes place (for example, funding runs out).  

This guide, produced in collaboration with law firm Lewis Silkin, is designed to help employers manage fixed-term contracts and understand the legal issues surrounding them. It provides an overview of the difficult issues which can arise from this type of contract, as well as insight into relevant case law. It also includes information and key points for those on fixed-term contracts to help them understand their employment status and rights.

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