If an employer needs to make a change
An employer can make a change ('variation') to an employment contract if:
- there's something in the contract that allows the change (usually called a 'flexibility clause')
- the employee agrees to the change
- the employee's representatives agree to the change (for example, a trade union)
An employer can force a new contract on employees, although this should be a last resort and could lead to legal action.
Changing an employment contract