The Part-time Workers' Regulations prohibit discrimination against part-time workers. Part-time workers must be treated no less favourably (on a pro-rata basis) than full-time workers in all matters including:

• Rates of pay

• Overtime

• Contractual sick pay

• Contractual maternity pay

• Company pensions

• Access to training

• Holidays and parental leave

• Redundancy

• Access to pensions

Now is the time to look at your contract of employment and works' rules. Part-time workers should not be treated less favourably than full-time workers. Less favourable treatment could be a breach of the Part-time Workers' Regulations and/or sex discrimination.

Take up any concerns through your Usdaw representatives. You may be able to put change on the negotiating agenda, raise a grievance, or take a case to an employment tribunal.

Contact Usdaw for further details on the above new rights.