Dickens' novel Oliver Twist brought to life the grim picture of Victorian workhouses, with harsh and terrible working conditions for the children housed there. Breaches of working time regulations, minimum wage laws, health and safety laws, discrimination everywhere.
It wouldn't happen nowadays, especially now the Department for Children, Schools and Families has produced guidance on child employment. it covers "the special rules which apply to the employment of children under the school leaving age".
How many hours a week can a 15-year-old work? What jobs can you hire a 13-year-old to do? What health and safety laws govern the employment of under 18s? What are the implications for employers? All these questions are answered.
So if you are planning on employing youngsters, then this guide is well worth a read.
