Brent becomes the first council to champion an end to zero-hours contracts

In a momentous move towards tackling unfair and unstable zero-hours contracts, Brent Council has become the first local authority to become a Silver Member of the Zero Hours Justice Campaign.

Employees on zero-hours contracts have no set hours meaning they have no fixed income, no job security and often miss out on employment benefits.

Brent’s Silver Membership, approved by the General Purposes Committee on 17 November and following the Cabinet decision on 12 December, demonstrates it does not and will not employ anyone directly on a zero-hours contract. The council is also committed to actively encouraging third-party contractors, providers and agencies to phase out zero-hours contracts in any services they provide.

This is especially important during the cost-of-living crisis when people need job stability more than ever.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said:

“This is a key step in our path to becoming a Living Wage Borough.

“Despite the hurdles, over the last few years, we’ve in-sourced hundreds of jobs, from our estate cleaning service to our park wardens, to provide quality services to Brent residents and also improve workers’ rights and conditions.

“As an anchor institution, we know there is much more to do, but I’m proud of the journey we have already made to create good jobs with good pay. Today’s accreditation shows just how far we have already come.”

Zero Hours Justice is an organisation committed to improving the lives of workers on zero-hours contracts.

Its free Accreditation Scheme recognises employees who implement zero-hours contracts more ethically and responsibly, as well as those that do not use these types of contracts at all.

Chris Peace, Director of Zero Hours Justice, said:

“This is a huge step forward and we applaud Brent Council for this milestone commitment. It has now set a benchmark for other local authorities and public bodies, such as NHS Trusts.

“Our public services are at the heart of our communities, employing 1,000s of people in their areas, and funded by the taxpayer, so it is only right that they lead by example and do not directly employ anyone on a zero-hours contract, also encouraging other businesses and organisations to do the same.”

Brent Council also pledged its commitment to The Fair Tax Declaration, promising to promote and encourage suppliers and businesses to pay the correct corporation tax and push for reform across the country.

This is a vital step towards promoting fair tax practices and challenging those who look for ways to avoid paying taxes, like using offshore accounts, which takes money away from local people and the services people rely on. By closing these loopholes, everyone benefits in the short and long term.