Breaks and rest
Workers over 18 usually have the right to one uninterrupted 20-minute rest break if they work more than 6 hours a day, 11 hours' rest between working days, and a weekly rest period. The break doesn't have to be paid - that depends on your contract (GOV.UK: rest breaks at work). Professional drivers also have drivers' hours rules (GOV.UK: drivers' hours).
Agency work
Many warehouse jobs are through agencies. After 12 weeks in the same job, agency workers qualify for equal treatment - the same basic rights as someone employed directly, including the same pay as a permanent colleague doing the same job (GOV.UK: agency workers' rights).
Minimum wage and holiday
The National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates go up every April and depend on your age (GOV.UK). Most workers are entitled to paid holiday, including people on part-time and irregular hours (GOV.UK: holiday entitlement).
This is the position in Great Britain - Northern Ireland has its own employment rules (nidirect).
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
Am I entitled to a break on a long shift?
Workers over 18 usually have the right to one uninterrupted 20-minute rest break if they work more than 6 hours a day. It doesn't have to be paid - that depends on your contract.
What rights do agency workers get after 12 weeks?
After 12 weeks in the same job, agency workers qualify for equal treatment - the same basic rights as someone employed directly, including the same pay as a permanent colleague doing the same job.
Sources
- GOV.UK: rest breaks at work
- GOV.UK: drivers' hours
- GOV.UK: agency workers' rights
- GOV.UK
- GOV.UK: holiday entitlement
- nidirect
Last reviewed 20 October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
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