Year off work?

[aidanx1]

Does anyone know if it's possible to take a 'career break' from Royal Mail? I heard that a guy from work took a year off and I was wondering if it would be possible to do the same.

[baldrick]

Yes you can take a career break/sabbatical if you have two years service .
There's information about it in the downloads section:
http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... 36&t=12623" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
You need to speak to your manager. It is usually for studying, travelling abroad or child care.
You are usually expected to come back to work for RM for 2 weeks during the year.
But be warned, although you are supposed to be given a job when you return there has been a post
on here from someone whose daughter wasn't given a job after completing her degree course,
and was having difficulty claiming benefits as she was still supposed to be employed by RM:
http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... 3F#p175803" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[aidanx1]

Thanks baldrick

So does taking a career break terminate your contract? If I were to come back after a year off, could I be given a completely duty than the one I'm currently doing?

[baldrick]

I've posted the link above. A careeer break does not terminate your contract, if you have a permanent contract.
You are not guaranteed to get the same duty or attendance when you return, and the period you are off does
not count towards seniority, pension or AL.

[aidanx1]

That's great. Thanks again!