The number of people working on zero-hours contracts in the UK has climbed to its highest level on record, highlighting the scale of insecure work as the government moves ahead with plans to tighten employment protections. The increase, driven largely by younger workers, comes ahead of expected legal changes aimed at guaranteeing more predictable hours and income.
Sharp rise in zero-hours workers across the UK
New analysis by the Work Foundation at Lancaster University, based on data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), found that 1.23 million people were employed on zero-hours contracts in December. This represents an increase of 91,000 compared with the previous year.
The figures also show there are 181,000 more people on such contracts than when Labour came to power in 2024, underlining the continued reliance on flexible labour across sectors including retail, hospitality and social care.
Zero-hours contracts allow employers to offer work without guaranteeing minimum hours, often giving shifts at short notice. While supporters argue this flexibility can benefit students, parents and those seeking part-time roles, critics say it creates financial instability and makes long-term planning difficult.
Young people and women most affected
The rise has been driven in part by an increase in workers aged 16 to 24 who are not in full-time education. According to the research, young people are now five times more likely to be employed on zero-hours contracts than older workers.
Women account for the majority of those affected, making up 54% of zero-hours contract workers.
Significantly, the proportion of workers relying on these arrangements for full-time employment has reached a record 32.8%. Many in this group report seeking additional hours or second jobs to make ends meet, reflecting wider cost-of-living pressures across Britain.
Ben Harrison, director of the Work Foundation, said the findings highlight the “urgent need” for reform.
“Such arrangements underpin the kind of one-sided flexibility that leaves over a million workers unsure how many hours they will work or how much money they will earn next week,” he said.
Workers describe financial uncertainty
For many, the impact is deeply personal. Anna Jameson, 22, who works in retail in Maltby, South Yorkshire, said unpredictable hours had made it difficult to achieve financial independence.
She said her hours and income fluctuate constantly, adding: “You never know what your pay will be at the end of the month.”
Living with family as a single parent, she said the lack of stable income had prevented her from moving into rented accommodation, as landlords typically require proof of consistent earnings.
Her experience reflects a wider pattern across the UK, where insecure work can limit access to housing, credit and financial stability.
Government plans guaranteed hours and stronger protections
The government says it intends to address the issue through its Employment Rights Act, which is expected to come into force next year.
The legislation will give eligible workers the right to guaranteed hours based on their regular working patterns. It will also require employers to provide reasonable notice of shifts and compensation when work is cancelled at short notice.
A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade said tackling insecure employment was essential to improving living standards and boosting productivity.
“We will ensure people can have the security they need by giving eligible workers the right to guaranteed hours,” the spokesperson said, adding that ministers would consult closely with businesses and employees on implementation.
However, the measures are still subject to consultation and require further parliamentary approval before becoming law.
Trade unions urge swift action
Trade unions have welcomed the proposed reforms but urged ministers to act quickly.
Paul Nowak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, said zero-hours contracts were “trapping workers in insecure jobs with little control over their hours and pay”.
He added that strengthening employment rights would make “a real difference to working people’s living standards”.
Campaigners argue that more predictable work could help reduce in-work poverty and improve economic stability, particularly for younger workers and families already under financial strain.
Outlook for the UK labour market
Zero-hours contracts have long been a feature of Britain’s flexible labour market, which employers say helps businesses respond to changing demand. However, their growing use has raised concerns about fairness and security in modern employment.
With record numbers now relying on these contracts, the government’s planned reforms are likely to play a key role in shaping the future balance between flexibility and protection at work.
Whether the new rules succeed in reducing insecurity without limiting job opportunities will be closely watched by workers, employers and policymakers alike.
Thomas Hardy is a contributor to OE Mag, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter to them. His work highlights relevant stories, emerging trends, and key issues, presenting them in a balanced, accessible, and reader-friendly way.