What happens if a member of staff has two or more years continuous NHS service and their fixed-term contract is ending?

If a member of staff has more than two years' (104 weeks) continuous service and their fixed-term contract is due to expire they will qualify for NHS redundancy payment.

The Trust will make reasonable attempts to identify a redeployment opportunity. The member of staff must cooperate in this process and must not refuse any suitable alternative.

What happens if a trial is agreed before the end of a fixed-term contract?

If a member of staff's fixed-term contract is due to expire but a trial in another role has been agreed, their contract will be extended for the duration of the trial period.

What process is required if a suitable role has been identified for a member of staff?

If a suitable role has been identified for a staff member, details of the role will be sent to them in writing so it can be considered. The member of staff must respond to confirm within a reasonable time (we would advise no longer than three days).

Where suitable, alternative employment can be offered and if accepted, the individual will commence a statutory four week trial period in their new role. The trial period will be reviewed at weekly intervals.

What is the process if a member of staff has had a series of contracts amounting to four years or more?

If a member of staff has worked fixed-term contracts within the same role for four or more years they automatically become a permanent member of staff. This may not necessarily be in the same role, unless there is a good business reason not to.