Zero-hours contracts are used by employers that require flexibility in their workforce, for example where the need for workers is unpredictable.They are similar to normal contracts as they are both an agreement between two parties to perform work in exchange for remuneration, but they do not specify a minimum number of contracted hours.The main idea behind a zero-hours contract is that the worker is available for when the employer needs them, but at the same time the worker is not required to accept any hours that the employer offers. This allows both the employer and worker to benefit from the convenient and flexible nature of the agreement.The individual can have a flexible working pattern and can fit work around other responsibilities, while the employer is not obliged to offer a certain amount of hours when work is scarce, but can do in order to meet demand during busy periods. Zero-hours contracts can be very appealing to employers as they can be excellent to cover unexpected events, such as temporary staff shortages during heavy demand.