Rules and regulations for under 16s who are working
If you want to work while you are under 16 there are certain rules and regulations you need to be aware of.
For whatever type of work you do, you will need a work permit before you can start. These are issued by your local authority. You can get an application form from your school or from the County Council website.
Working hours for young people aged 13 - 16
When |
How long at 13 & 14 |
How long at 15 & 16 |
| School days | 2 hours in total | 2 hours in total |
|
Only 1 hour between 7am and start of school |
Only 1 hour between 7am and start of school |
|
| Not after 7pm | Not after 7pm | |
| Saturdays | 5 hours between 7am & 7pm | 8 hours between 7am & 7pm |
| Sundays | 2 hours between 7 am & 7pm | 2 hours between 7 am & 7pm |
| No more than 12 hours in a school week | No more than 12 hours in a school week | |
| School holidays |
5 hours on any day between 7 am & 7pm (and no more than 2 hours on a Sunday) |
8 hours on any day between 7 am & 7pm (and no more than 2 hours on a Sunday) |
| Maximum of 25 hours per week | Maximum of 35 hours in a week | |
| Must have a break of 2 weeks free from work in a year | Must have a break of 2 weeks free from work in a year | |
| Must have a rest break of 1 hour every 4 hours | Must have a rest break of 1 hour every 4 hours |
There are also rules limiting the type of work you can do. You should only be employed in 'light' work.
Work involving hazardous situations, for example with dangerous chemicals, in commercial kitchens, in a factory or collecting rubbish are not allowed. You need to have suitable clothes and shoes if you are working outdoors.
You could get yourself and your employer into trouble if you do not follow the rules set down.
You can find more information on the rules and regulations on Cambridgeshire County Council's website.
