Benefit query

[HandyGirl76]

Can anyone advise on this?

I gave up a very well paid city job to take a local job on the basis of a large discount provided as a benefit by my new employer. The benefit is not in my contract but is in the employee handbook and I accepted the job on the basis of this discount, as outlined in various email.

My employer is now thinking of removing this benefit and/ or means testing it. I would not be eligible if it were means-tested but feel angry that I gave up a significantly better paid job on the basis that I would be eligible.

Are they allowed to do this?

Thank you!

[dreamfield]

If it's non-contractual, yes.

If it's contractual, they just have to follow the process for changing contracts.

https://www.theguardian.com/money/work-blog/2014/oct/17/employee-benefits-rights-contractual-options

https://www.acas.org.uk/changing-an-employment-contract/employer-responsibilities

[Acornsoup]

Was it listed as a benefit in the job advert?

[EffysMum]

Yes it was listed as a benefit in the job spec.

[EffysMum]

@dreamfield thank you for the links, I'll take a look. My initial look at acas seem to say it was an "incorporated term"

[Acornsoup]

Surely then this will be removed as a benefit for future employees, not existing? You would be within your rights to take to a tribunal.

[EffysMum]

@Acornsoup would I? That's what I'm trying to establish. It's not in the contract but it is in the employee handbook.

[EffysMum]

And was on the job advert.

I also have an email from HR confirming it as a benefit before I signed the contract.

[Acornsoup]

I definitely think you have grounds if they make changes now. However you will need proper legal advice. At the moment it's just hearsay.