Case Study: Employment Rights on a Fixed-Term Contract

This case highlights how uncertainty around fixed-term contracts can affect the confidence and wellbeing of refugee employees. Access to clear information and supportive advice can make a significant difference, helping individuals feel empowered and better equipped to navigate their employment journey.

Through our partnership with the Work Rights Centre, we were able to provide reliable legal guidance that helped the client feel more secure in her role and better prepared for future discussions with her employer.

Case Study: Building Confidence and Understanding Employment Rights for an Afghan on a Fixed-Term Contract

Background:

An Afghan refugee approached us for support regarding her fixed-term employment. She has been working in the UK for nearly two years, has shown strong commitment in her role, and has taken on increased responsibilities as her team reduced in size. She enjoys her work and hopes to continue in it, but the conditions around her contract have created uncertainty.

The Challenge:

The client had been on a fixed-term contract for some time and was unsure about future stability. The timing around contract decisions created uncertainty, which affected her confidence and sense of security at work. She values her role and has worked hard in it, but the lack of clarity made her feel anxious about planning ahead.

She approached us to understand her rights and to explore whether she could request clearer communication or earlier confirmation about her employment situation.

USPUK’s Response:

Our focus was to support her confidence, provide clear information, and ensure she received specialist guidance on her employment rights. With her consent, we gathered the necessary documents and arranged for her to speak with a solicitor through our partner, Work Rights Centre.

The following steps were taken:

1. Supportive Discussion and Information Gathering

We listened to her concerns and reassured her that uncertainty around fixed-term contracts is a common experience. Our focus was on supporting her confidence and ensuring she felt understood.

2. Access to Specialist Employment Advice

Through our partner, the Work Rights Centre, she received guidance from a solicitor about her employment rights and the protections relevant to her situation.

3. Understanding Key Employment Milestones

She was informed that certain rights strengthen with length of service, including protections around how contract decisions should be managed. This gave her a clearer sense of her position.

4. Exploring Options for Clearer Communication

The solicitor explained that it is reasonable for her to request clearer or earlier communication about contract decisions, helping reduce uncertainty.

5. Building Confidence in Her Rights

She left the session with a better understanding of her options and felt more confident in engaging with her employer when needed.

Outcome:

The client left the session feeling more reassured and confident. She now has a clearer understanding of her rights and feels better prepared to communicate with her employer about future contract arrangements. The guidance helped reduce her anxiety and gave her a stronger sense of stability.

Reflections

This case highlights how uncertainty around fixed-term contracts can affect the confidence and wellbeing of refugee employees. Access to clear information and supportive advice can make a significant difference, helping individuals feel empowered and better equipped to navigate their employment journey.

It also demonstrates the value of:

• Confidence-building support

• Access to specialist employment advice

• Clear communication about rights and protections

Through our partnership with the Work Rights Centre, we were able to provide reliable legal guidance that helped the client feel more secure in her role and better prepared for future discussions with her employer.

Note: All personal data shared was handled confidentially and used only to obtain appropriate advice.

Information Packs from USPUK

At USPUK, we provide detailed info packs on various topics for displaced people. We assist those coming to the UK through programs like ACRS and ARAP.

If you would like to get involved or if you would like to access our Information Packs, you can find out more on our website in the Get Help section.