As trainees and newly qualified pharmacists get started in their careers, the charity Pharmacist Support has published a fact sheet with information to help deal with common queries regarding employment contracts.

Topics include:

• Written, verbal and statutory requirements
• Rates of pay
• Holidays
• Rest breaks
• Sick leave
• Working hours
• Notice requirements.

There is also a checklist covering issues that trainees and newly qualified pharmacists should avoid in a contract, including:

• No statement of working hours
• Variations in working site
• Any attempt to reduce statutory rights
• Financial penalty clause for leaving before the end of contracted period.

The fact sheet also covers areas that relate specifically to pre-registration trainees, including learning contracts, study time and training plans, as well as information about where to go for advice, including trade unions and the charity’s own service which includes a referral to a specialist employment adviser if required.