Allotments 4 All

this is from the TUC website.

Breaks at work

You are also entitled to a break of 20 minutes away from where you normally work if your working day will be longer than six hours.

But the same groups of workers who have different provisions for daily and weekly breaks can also have their breaks at work varied. Again if you cannot take your break you must be given time off at another time.

In some jobs you may be entitled to longer breaks. If your job is particularly repetitive or dangerous (such as the threat of RSI to keyboard workers) then you may be entitled to more breaks, at least away from the dangerous activity. Take advice if you are in this position.

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Can the provisions be varied?

Individuals cannot opt out of, or change, their breaks. The only way to vary the right to a break is through a collective agreement between management and the workforce. The entitlement to breaks cannot be ended, but their timing can change.

Where there are recognised trade unions this will become part of the normal negotiating process, and can bring benefits to both workers and employers.

If there are no unions there is a provision for what is called a 'workforce agreement'. The employer will organise an election for workforce representatives who will then conclude an agreement.

The TUC is worried about this procedure. It is under the control of the employer, and reps without union back-up are much less likely to get a good deal. If this is going on in your workplace, you may want to discuss with an appropriate union how best to use it as a way of unionising your fellow workers.

Some minor provisions can also be varied in the contract with your employer.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Employees/WorkingHoursAndTimeOff/DG_10029451

Twenty minutes in 6 hours but seems to exclude hospital work and presumably a care home falls within this.  However for the safety of the residents the staff need adequate breaks and food. 

Thank you for all your help, advise and interest :D