Your tips are yours
Since 1 October 2024, employers in Great Britain must pass on all tips, gratuities and service charges to workers without deductions, share them fairly and, where tips are paid regularly, have a written tips policy. You can make a written request to see records of how tips were shared, and the employer must reply within four weeks (GOV.UK: code of practice on distributing tips fairly).
Minimum wage
The National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates go up every April and depend on your age. Check the current rates on GOV.UK.
Food hygiene
Many kitchens ask for a food hygiene certificate, but it isn't a legal requirement. The law requires employers to make sure food handlers are supervised and trained in food hygiene for their work, which is why employers often provide the training (Food Standards Agency).
Working behind a bar
In England and Wales you don't need a personal licence to work behind a bar, but every alcohol sale must be authorised by a personal licence holder, usually the manager (GOV.UK: alcohol licensing). Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own licensing rules.
Adjustments
If you're disabled or have a health condition, you can ask the employer for adjustments at any stage of applying, including in a screening.
Questions people ask
Does my employer have to give me my tips?
In Great Britain, yes. Since 1 October 2024 employers must pass on all tips, gratuities and service charges to workers without deductions and share them fairly.
Do I need a food hygiene certificate to work in a kitchen?
A certificate isn't a legal requirement. The law requires employers to make sure food handlers are supervised and trained in food hygiene for their work, so many employers provide the training.
Sources
- GOV.UK: code of practice on distributing tips fairly
- GOV.UK
- Food Standards Agency
- GOV.UK: alcohol licensing
Last reviewed 20 October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
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