The stress of zero hour contracts

A zero-hour contract means employer is not obliged to provide a minimum nor consistent number of working hours to its employees. It’s the type of employment that often favours the employer, as they only pay staff as and when they need them, nor do they have to pay additional obligatory benefits, such as pension contributions, or holiday and sick pay. A lean workforce is maintained, flexibility ensued, and a business can be quick to respond to seasonal fluctuations or otherwise.

As an autistic person, I struggle with stress and anxiety, and this is quickly exacerbated by any type of uncertainty and change. I have great organisational skills and can easily compartmentalise my day, week, month into neat lists and boxes, and enjoy doing this. It gives me a sense of routine, which in turn provides me with great consistency and joy. I thrive in this environment and experience better health and wellbeing overall.