Redundancy

Hi all, hope to get some words of wisdom from anyone that has went through redundancy before, I have just been put at risk from a company in financial services after 15 years with the company, my worry is that having two young kids is my biggest fear in providing and getting another job in today's world, my head is a bit of a mess the now is an understatement, I have great support from my family which is making it a bit easier but those worries are still in my head, it may be a good thing as it may let me explore other things I have wanted to do. So how did you deal with it?

I'm going through the process at work at the moment. It's an ongoing consultation process currently. Tbh the waiting is the worst part, if I'm going I'd rather just know and be able to process things.

I've not been dealing with it particularly well. I worry about providing for my family as I'm the only full time wage coming in. I've tried to get as much information as possible about my rights, what I'm entitled to and so on.

I've never been out of work before so it's potentially new territory for me. Hopefully thinks work out for you as the uncertainity is a total head ****.

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Originally Posted by Jakhog1

Hi all, hope to get some words of wisdom from anyone that has went through redundancy before, I have just been put at risk from a company in financial services after 15 years with the company, my worry is that having two young kids is my biggest fear in providing and getting another job in today's world, my head is a bit of a mess the now is an understatement, I have great support from my family which is making it a bit easier but those worries are still in my head, it may be a good thing as it may let me explore other things I have wanted to do. So how did you deal with it?

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I was made redundant earlier this year due to covid. It's a worrying time but what I would say is there are other jobs out there however the likelihood is the salary may be lower than what you are used to (I'm guessing with 15 years service however your redundancy payment may offset that slightly).

Since I was made redundant in June I've had two jobs (my current one and the other I lasted 2 days in as it was a disaster) and turned down the option to interview at another by a recruitment company.

If you are sharp and have decent experience I'd say you have a good chance of finding other employment fairly soon but be prepared for a drop in salary.

Thanks guys, yeah getting a decent amount for redundancy so that ease my fears a little bit, I'm in the same boat always worked and never been without employment in 25 years, I'm also the main provider and having two kids under 7 is my main priority, would hate to be without work and hopefully find something right away and as you have said I would be more than willing to work for less money than what I am on just to have that stability in my life, I do appreciate hearing others feedback and experiences, I knew I would get good advice coming on here

With 15 years service (even with statutory redundancy pay) you shouldn’t be in a position where you need to panic about not being able to pay the bills or put food on the table immediately, hopefully. That should buy you a bit time at least.

There are definitely jobs out there, I wouldn’t be unduly worried about not being able to get employment. Would echo the comments above about salary expectations though. What I would say is that, although I’ve managed to avoid being made redundant for the moment, I have had to move to a four day week (temporary 20% pay cut). In the current climate I’ve not felt under pressure financially. Not because I earn a fortune, just because a lot of the things I normally spend money on aren’t there to spend money on!

Having been made redundant twice before, I’ve just assumed that I would be going from the moment that I got put at risk. Last time, I had a couple of job offers before I was confirmed as going. Appreciate it’s a different climate at the moment, but getting on the front foot with the job hunt worked for me.

I went through redundancy 10 years ago and retrained to be a teacher - best thing that even happened to me.

My world literally collapsed when I was made redundant. Looking back, and I know it’s easy to say, it was the best thing that happened to me.

Only advice I’d have would be to get something ASAP. Literally anything, even if it’s working in a supermarket, fast food, whatever. It can keep some structure in your life and also means you just need to ‘top up’ your wage from your redundancy payment rather than use it to cover a full month without wages.

Hopefully you keep your job but if not then hopefully you’ll manage to get something that you fancy ASAP

I've been made redundant twice.

First time was a bit of a nightmare: 2 wee kids, my wife wasn't working at the time, took me 3 months to get another job and I had to commute to the Weedge for a year for less money before I found something back in Edinburgh. Stress all round.

Second time worked out fine as the job market (software dev) was much healthier at the time. I got a few offers, ended up in a better job for more money and banked the redundancy. Happy days.

My advice would be to be proactive. If your current employer offers support by all means use it but don't rely on it, ime it can be a box-ticking, fairly useless thing on their part. Set aside a good chunk of time per day for job hunting activity. Even if you're not getting immediate results, it gives you some structure and focus. Get in touch with friends, ex-colleagues, etc there might be something they know of you can get a head start on.

Good luck!

I was made redundant at the end of July due to the Covid situation. It was not unexpected as I realised as soon as the pandemic struck that my role at head office level in the hospitality sector would be in danger.
It’s been a challenge both financially and mentally but now I am about to open a new business venture with a colleague made redundant from the same employer.
It has been the push we both needed to go it alone and we are relishing the challenge ahead.

That's my plan to get looking straight away, may try to get out of finance altogether and retrain on something completely different.

I really fancy a change and as you say H18 SFR it may be a blessing and could be the best thing that has happened to me

I felt a bit of a failure telling my wife and family as I have never experienced this before but they have been amazing

Bigger problems going on in the world so thank you for giving me your ear

I've never been made redundant but have worked in offices where it's happened around me (I've just been fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time to not be directly impacted), and I've had my role made redundant but just been shifted to an equivalent role.

What I would say though, is that nobody I know from those times who was made redundant has looked back on it as anything other than a positive in the long run, they all went on to different things (everything from using their redundancy to set up their own business, to doing what they did already but with a new employer, or taking a totally different career path through things like nursing and teaching). In fact, my sister was made redundant a while back and was able to find a similar job but also started really getting into acting, which she's brilliant at and is loving.

Clearly, the circumstances were different, but if you keep an open mind as to where your next move could be, you might find that rather than being a huge cloud over you, it takes you somewhere you would never have thought you'd be without the forced situation.

The last thing I would say is don't ever look upon it as being a failure or somehow your fault, this is a situation that has been totally out of our control - you don't have to feel guilty about it or embarrassed.

There is loads in place with the work from redeployment to CV writing so will take advantage where I can, also no job is beneath me as long as I feel as I am contributing some way, I honestly feel much better now than I did a few hours ago

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Originally Posted by Jakhog1

That's my plan to get looking straight away, may try to get out of finance altogether and retrain on something completely different.

I really fancy a change and as you say H18 SFR it may be a blessing and could be the best thing that has happened to me

I felt a bit of a failure telling my wife and family as I have never experienced this before but they have been amazing

Bigger problems going on in the world so thank you for giving me your ear

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I can relate to the challenge of telling your close friends and family - I’d just add, you’ve not failed in any way of shape you’re simply a victim of the pandemic.

Keep focusing on the positives.

When it was me 10 years ago I immediately paid off my car loan, overdraft and credit commitments. It made me feel much happier knowing I only had my mortgage. It helped me to relax and plan out what I wanted to do next.

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Originally Posted by H18 SFR

I can relate to the challenge of telling your close friends and family - I’d just add, you’ve not failed in any way of shape you’re simply a victim of the pandemic.

Keep focusing on the positives.

When it was me 10 years ago I immediately paid off my car loan, overdraft and credit commitments. It made me feel much happier knowing I only had my mortgage. It helped me to relax and plan out what I wanted to do next.

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Thank you, you must have made a good move in becoming a teacher, definitely have put my mind at ease, thank you all for the kind words an led advice, means a lot.

The threat of redundancy has hung over me at least half a dozen times and thankfully I've always been kept on, strange feeling when you survive the cull but friends don't.

Strange thing for me is they are due at our company again but my fear has turned into hope. With being 60yo and 30 years service I will volunteer as I would get 80 weeks pay and it would save a compulsory.

Been through the process twice. First time (pre-family/kids) I stuck it out through the 'consultation process', hoping the union involved might negotiate some sort of deal but they were pretty powerless/useless and it became pretty clear our jobs were doomed. Second time was after we'd had kids so I applied immediately (and was accepted) for the voluntary redundancy package on offer which gave me a few months of breathing space to retrain at college and embark on a different path.

As others have said, if it's looking like you may not find work in the field you're in for while (and in these horribly uncertain times I guess that's a strong possibility) it might make sense to find some sort of paid employment asap. My brother in law was in a similar boat a wee while back and got a job as a supermarket delivery driver while a former colleage worked on a bin lorry - doesn't sound too glamorous but he actually loved it and enjoyed 'working the streets' so much he's ended up as a postie (which involves a lot more training than some might realise). On the flip side I know another dad who's still in a kind of denial that he won't find a similarly well paid job despite having lost his previous one well over a year ago and refuses to contemplate a change of status. It's made him a difficult person to be around.

I was made redundant more than 25 years ago, as it was so long ago I hadn’t thought of commenting. But all the positive comments have chimed with my experience back then.

I am now retired but looking back at the varied work life I have had since then I am glad it happened to me. The company I worked for had been taken over by people who turned out to be crooks so them not wanting me in their company was one if the best compliments I gave ever received.

What I am trying (poorly) to say is that how you respond and look back on redundancy can really be a positive though it can be tough at the time. Stay positive, it really does help

Cheers everyone, that's it, just have to remain positive now, feels better getting it all of my chest, to all those that are going through the same experience I hope that you all have a good outcome and hope better things are just around the corner

Have sent you a PM Jakhog, feel free to ignore if no help.

I’ve also been put into a consultation for redundancy, second time in 2 year, it’s really stressing me out tbh.

I've been there 11 years, the pay out would be reasonable but not massive, but all things being equal I’d rather still be in a job, given all the circumstances. In a perfect world I’d find a similar job with similar salary (or better :greengrin) and get the redundancy package, but I’d be happy to have the stability of staying in employment rather than unemployed and trying to find another job, with a 1 year old and mortgage etc.

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Originally Posted by wallpaperman

Have sent you a PM Jakhog, feel free to ignore if no help.

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Thank you, sent reply

We're just finishing off redundancy negotiations. Originally there were 738 from 1590 on the chopping block, but thanks to the furlough scheme we've managed to put off making any redundancies until at least 31.12.2021. We agreed on a voluntary redundancy scheme for those that want to leave now. Using the factors that we've agreed upon for voluntary redundancy I could walk out the door with a little over 2 years salary. I'm seriously considering it and using the money to make a career change. I'm thinking of doing an HGV driving course with a dangerous goods certificate and throwing in a forklift truck license whilst I'm at it. Having worked in the airline industry for 16 years now I just want a job where I have little or no contact with the general public. I've got 10 days to make up my mind.

Heartbreaking to hear of the real life stories of Hi bees potentially put on the dole scrapheap. It happened to a heck of a lot of good folk in the seventies and eighties. Hundreds of thousands of manual workers deliberately put on the dole to make way for electronic finance. It almost makes me think this has also deliberately been done by the already rich well off illuminati who have betted on/counted on a robotic less human resource future. The b stard jambo anderson springs to mind making billions for the already super rich gunts. They're alledgedly opening up an office in Haymarket so easy to protest against if so.

Lets hope and pray to God its not been and we will find a way for the workforce to rise again. However, it certainly appears to be a supra national conspiracy.

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Originally Posted by RitchieHibs

Heartbreaking to hear of the real life stories of Hi bees potentially put on the dole scrapheap. It happened to a heck of a lot of good folk in the seventies and eighties. Hundreds of thousands of manual workers deliberately put on the dole to make way for electronic finance. It almost makes me think this has also deliberately been done by the already rich well off illuminati who have betted on/counted on a robotic less human resource future. The b stard jambo anderson springs to mind making billions for the already super rich gunts. They're alledgedly opening up an office in Haymarket so easy to protest against if so.

Lets hope and pray to God its not been and we will find a way for the workforce to rise again. However, it certainly appears to be a supra national conspiracy.

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You have a slightly confused view of what Anderson does and the benefits to society of properly allocated capital.

As it is anyone could have bought into Scottish Mortgage for the time he has run it. For decades Baillie Gifford offered a free share plan where amounts of as little as £25pm could be regularly invested.

So suggesting that only super rich gunts have or can benefit from his expertise and knowledge says more about you than it does about him I’m afraid.

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Originally Posted by RyeSloan

You have a slightly confused view of what Anderson does and the benefits to society of properly allocated capital.

As it is anyone could have bought into Scottish Mortgage for the time he has run it. For decades Baillie Gifford offered a free share plan where amounts of as little as £25pm could be regularly invested.

So suggesting that only super rich gunts have or can benefit from his expertise and knowledge says more about you than it does about him I’m afraid.

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Him, Anderson jambo and super rich gunts like him have decimated communities, decade after decade. They are completely devoid of human consequence in their pursuit of coin. They are only interested in rewarding themselves and those like them. You're way off the mark sunbeam. God bless you though. We'll catch up with the gunts no doubt. Independence will out these charlatans.

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Originally Posted by RitchieHibs

Him, Anderson jambo and super rich gunts like him have decimated communities, decade after decade. They are completely devoid of human consequence in their pursuit of coin. They are only interested in rewarding themselves and those like them. You're way off the mark sunbeam. God bless you though. We'll catch up with the gunts no doubt. Independence will out these charlatans.

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Are you ok?

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Originally Posted by matty_f

Are you ok?

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Brand new Matty.

Nae worries pal. Just a few auld boils to lance against an auld enemy that never forgets nor do I.

Cheers mate.

Erin Go Brath and Bonnie Scotland.

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Originally Posted by RitchieHibs

Him, Anderson jambo and super rich gunts like him have decimated communities, decade after decade. They are completely devoid of human consequence in their pursuit of coin. They are only interested in rewarding themselves and those like them. You're way off the mark sunbeam. God bless you though. We'll catch up with the gunts no doubt. Independence will out these charlatans.

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Righty ho then! [emoji23]

I’ll let this thread stay on topic rather than bother replying in any detail to that steaming pile of a post.

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Originally Posted by RitchieHibs

Heartbreaking to hear of the real life stories of Hi bees potentially put on the dole scrapheap. It happened to a heck of a lot of good folk in the seventies and eighties. Hundreds of thousands of manual workers deliberately put on the dole to make way for electronic finance. It almost makes me think this has also deliberately been done by the already rich well off illuminati who have betted on/counted on a robotic less human resource future. The b stard jambo anderson springs to mind making billions for the already super rich gunts. They're alledgedly opening up an office in Haymarket so easy to protest against if so.

Lets hope and pray to God its not been and we will find a way for the workforce to rise again. However, it certainly appears to be a supra national conspiracy.

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Very bizarre. I hope James Anderson is also investing in tin foil hat manufacturers!

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

We're just finishing off redundancy negotiations. Originally there were 738 from 1590 on the chopping block, but thanks to the furlough scheme we've managed to put off making any redundancies until at least 31.12.2021. We agreed on a voluntary redundancy scheme for those that want to leave now. Using the factors that we've agreed upon for voluntary redundancy I could walk out the door with a little over 2 years salary. I'm seriously considering it and using the money to make a career change. I'm thinking of doing an HGV driving course with a dangerous goods certificate and throwing in a forklift truck license whilst I'm at it. Having worked in the airline industry for 16 years now I just want a job where I have little or no contact with the general public. I've got 10 days to make up my mind.

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Personally I'd be jumping at that but everyone has their own circumstances to consider.

All the best

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

We're just finishing off redundancy negotiations. Originally there were 738 from 1590 on the chopping block, but thanks to the furlough scheme we've managed to put off making any redundancies until at least 31.12.2021. We agreed on a voluntary redundancy scheme for those that want to leave now. Using the factors that we've agreed upon for voluntary redundancy I could walk out the door with a little over 2 years salary. I'm seriously considering it and using the money to make a career change. I'm thinking of doing an HGV driving course with a dangerous goods certificate and throwing in a forklift truck license whilst I'm at it. Having worked in the airline industry for 16 years now I just want a job where I have little or no contact with the general public. I've got 10 days to make up my mind.

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Interesting what you say about working with the public.

I must admit, I’m finding it harder than ever to satisfy the public. We have our core regulars who know and are happy with our offering but I’m starting to get really fed up trying to satisfy impossible demands - and being held to ransom with the “if you don’t do what we say we’ll go online and give you a bad google review.”

I think I need a job where I’m locked away in a room with as little human interaction as possible.

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Originally Posted by Speedy

Personally I'd be jumping at that but everyone has their own circumstances to consider.

All the best

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Yep, I wish my work would make me redundant with two years salary as a pay off.

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Originally Posted by RyeSloan

Righty ho then! [emoji23]

I’ll let this thread stay on topic rather than bother replying in any detail to that steaming pile of a post.

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Yes best not to feed it.

Another thing I will say about redundancy is that in a strange way I felt like a massive weight had been lifted from my shoulders. The job had begun to drag me down without me really realising.

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Originally Posted by Speedy

Personally I'd be jumping at that but everyone has their own circumstances to consider.

All the best

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Thanks Speedy. I realise I'm in a fortunate position and hope others manage to get their futures secured.

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Originally Posted by Scouse Hibee

Yes best not to feed it.

Another thing I will say about redundancy is that in a strange way I felt like a massive weight had been lifted from my shoulders. The job had begun to drag me down without me really realising.

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This is how I felt when made redundant 11 years ago. Looking back, I realised that when the possibility first became real I had gone through the usual reactions - shock, denial, anger, depression - before landing on acceptance. I had around 9 months between being told we were being taken over and the point at which my redundancy was confirmed, and I spent a lot of that time working in the new company which gave me a real insight into their culture, values and working practices. That let me appreciate that the company I'd worked for for 25+ years was effectively dead and realise that the new company's values were a world apart from mine. So over nine months, I went from thinking redundancy would be the worst thing to knowing it would be the best thing. Financially I will never get back to where I was, but still glad I took it and more than happy with how things worked out, all things considered.

Not in anyway similar to your situation, in so much as I was at an age where I had no children or mortgage to worry about, but redundancy was the best thing that happened to me.

I was with a company from 16 - 24, and it was all I'd ever known work wise. Got made redundant and picked up a couple of short term jobs to keep me ticking over. Found something I really liked doing and used the a couple of the startup organisations that were kicking about in the early '90s to start a business. Don't get me wrong, the early days were a real struggle, and I had weeks of living off beans on toast, but it's all worked out and I'm now doing quite well in a job that I love doing.

I'd say have a really good think about what you'd like to do, rather than who will give me a job.

They've been considering who to make redundant at my wife's work, though it's a relatively small number (I think 4 from a team of 30)

Due to dealing with customers with multiple languages, it's a not been easy to find a balance, as using the 'last in, first out' or least talented options, or whatever, could actually mean some of the sub-teams are short of people that speak certain languages.

They've actually just announced the first redundancy as a woman that's currently on maternity leave. I'm really surprised at that and thought it was against UK employment law.

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Originally Posted by Smartie

I think I need a job where I’m locked away in a room with as little human interaction as possible.

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That's where I'm at. For the last 25 years I've had face to face contact with the general public and employees. Nearly 10 years as a paramedic and now over 10 years as an employee representative. It might sound harse but I'm kind of burnt out from dealing with other people's problems. It's been a slow burn up until covid that has turned the small flame into a flamethrower. Having had the worries and expectations regarding the jobs of over 1500 people on my shoulders for the last few months has been the final straw. With a deal now in place that secures at least the immediate future of those I represent, it's probably time to bow out on a slight high and concentrate on me and my family for a change.

Actually writing this has cemented my decision. The Yorkie Bars are on me.

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Yep, I wish my work would make me redundant with two years salary as a pay off.

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Makes you wonder how business manages to thrive in Germany when the employment laws are weighed heavily in favour of the employee? Their industries must be close to collapse due to them having to treat their employees fairly. :wink:

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Originally Posted by Jakhog1

Thank you, sent reply

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Hi mate, i can’t see that the reply came through, I think my PM settings are ok, not sure if you want to try again (if there was anything I could help with).

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

They've been considering who to make redundant at my wife's work, though it's a relatively small number (I think 4 from a team of 30)

Due to dealing with customers with multiple languages, it's a not been easy to find a balance, as using the 'last in, first out' or least talented options, or whatever, could actually mean some of the sub-teams are short of people that speak certain languages.

They've actually just announced the first redundancy as a woman that's currently on maternity leave. I'm really surprised at that and thought it was against UK employment law.

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Hope your Mrs survives the cull Keith.

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

That's where I'm at. For the last 25 years I've had face to face contact with the general public and employees. Nearly 10 years as a paramedic and now over 10 years as an employee representative. It might sound harse but I'm kind of burnt out from dealing with other people's problems. It's been a slow burn up until covid that has turned the small flame into a flamethrower. Having had the worries and expectations regarding the jobs of over 1500 people on my shoulders for the last few months has been the final straw. With a deal now in place that secures at least the immediate future of those I represent, it's probably time to bow out on a slight high and concentrate on me and my family for a change.

Actually writing this has cemented my decision. The Yorkie Bars are on me.

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Could I have some of these German delights, please.

Attachment 24062

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Hope your Mrs survives the cull Keith.

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Cheers, I think she'll be OK. There's only three people in the whole team that can speak German

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

They've been considering who to make redundant at my wife's work, though it's a relatively small number (I think 4 from a team of 30)

Due to dealing with customers with multiple languages, it's a not been easy to find a balance, as using the 'last in, first out' or least talented options, or whatever, could actually mean some of the sub-teams are short of people that speak certain languages.

They've actually just announced the first redundancy as a woman that's currently on maternity leave. I'm really surprised at that and thought it was against UK employment law.

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Your last paragraph is correct. Same thing happened to my wife when she was on maternity leave.

She’s a teacher and they were rationalising. The two staff that were up for redundancy were the two girls on Maternity Leave.

We ended up getting the Union involved (NUT) who rightly pointed out that they have a protected status and we would be seeing them in court if they persisted with this nonsense.

Funnily enough the school backed down and the savings were found elsewhere.

Still makes me angry to this day, but fair play to the Union they stepped up. Also helped that I’m pretty well versed in employment law.

From Citizens Advice

“ Can I be made redundant if I’m pregnant or on maternity leave?

You can be made redundant while pregnant or on maternity leave, but there are strict rules that must be followed before this can happen.You can’t be made redundant because you’re pregnant or on maternity leave. If you are this counts as “automatic unfair dismissal” and discrimination.

This could be where, for example, the employer has no genuine reason to make you redundant, or there is a real reason to make people redundant but the employer picks you because of a reason relating to pregnancy or maternity leave.

There is additional protection for women who are on maternity leave, or those on shared parental leave. If you are on maternity or parental leave, and there is a genuine reason to make your role redundant, your employer must offer you suitable alternative work if they have it. They should give you this as a priority over other employees.”

Very easy to argue that she was chosen because she was on maternity leave.

Good ole EU, what’s it ever done to protect workers rights?

Another BREXIT benefit, we can now “strip back” that red tape.

https://www.lexology.com/library/det...e-0f3d4d6ee30d

J

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Originally Posted by wallpaperman

Hi mate, i can’t see that the reply came through, I think my PM settings are ok, not sure if you want to try again (if there was anything I could help with).

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Should be sent now

I’ll chip in aswell. Was made redundant from one of the big banks last year after 16/17 years there straight from Uni. Maybe slightly different from some as was offered a role to stay towards the end of my notice period. But I had got myself in the frame of mind that it was best to move on.

Like a lot of people I aimed for the scenario of having a few weeks off and going right into a new job. The reality ended up being nearly 8 months before I had a new role! Which is probably not uncommon. It was difficult at times and it’s natural to doubt yourself or have feelings of “letting the side down”. But I’ve got a young family too and looking back it was great to have that time with my son.

In terms of advice... being proactive is definitely crucial and you need to almost have a new routine of looking and applying for jobs. I think agencies are only responsible for placing people into less than 15% or jobs. So you’ll be more likely to find something applying directly. Don’t be scared to use any contacts you have even if that doesn’t come naturally.

Things have changed again clearly with COVID (guess you’ll be working from home anyway) so you might want to practice video interviews and thinking about how to make a good impression without the F2F element.

Finally - I’m sure you’ve got loads of strengths and lots to offer. Always remember that. Other companies won’t view your redundancy as a negative in any way. There will defo be jobs out there for you.

Just received my offer of voluntary redundancy and have received a job offer as a postman on the same day. I'm tempted, really tempted. It's a quite substantial drop in wages but the thought of all that fresh air and walking is very attractive. I'm 55 next week and will receive my first pension that should help stop the gap and there's also the nearly 2 years salary as redundancy payment.

I'm not from nature the indecisive type, but there's a small niggling feeling holding me back. I've been given a week to decide so will use that before making my mind up.

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Just received my offer of voluntary redundancy and have received a job offer as a postman on the same day. I'm tempted, really tempted. It's a quite substantial drop in wages but the thought of all that fresh air and walking is very attractive. I'm 55 next week and will receive my first pension that should help stop the gap and there's also the nearly 2 years salary as redundancy payment.

I'm not from nature the indecisive type, but there's a small niggling feeling holding me back. I've been given a week to decide so will use that before making my mind up.

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You're right not to rush into it as that's a big decision to make.

Have you applied for other jobs?

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

You're right not to rush into it as that's a big decision to make.

Have you applied for other jobs?

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No, but I've enquired at a truck driving school about doing my C, CE and forklift truck licenses and Hazmat, I could also go back to school and get my Berufskraftfahrer trade certificate. All in all it would take about 4 months. There's also the possibility to get at least some of it paid for by the Arbeitsamt.

Taking the posty job would probably allow me to choose a better time of year to do hgv training but I'm worried that I might enjoy being "Postman Plod the Miserable Sod" too much that I scrap my original plan B.

Like you wisely say, I'm not going to rush into anything yet.

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

No, but I've enquired at a truck driving school about doing my C, CE and forklift truck licenses and Hazmat, I could also go back to school and get my Berufskraftfahrer trade certificate. All in all it would take about 4 months. There's also the possibility to get at least some of it paid for by the Arbeitsamt.

Taking the posty job would probably allow me to choose a better time of year to do hgv training but I'm worried that I might enjoy being "Postman Plod the Miserable Sod" too much that I scrap my original plan B.

Like you wisely say, I'm not going to rush into anything yet.

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Maybe you should be the new Cliff Clavin, and enlighten the world with your words of wisdom...


https://images.manmadediy.com/78JMRo...nal-poster.jpg

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Maybe you should be the new Cliff Clavin, and enlighten the world with your words of wisdom...


https://images.manmadediy.com/78JMRo...nal-poster.jpg

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I'm already a disciple of the great man. :greengrin

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Just received my offer of voluntary redundancy and have received a job offer as a postman on the same day. I'm tempted, really tempted. It's a quite substantial drop in wages but the thought of all that fresh air and walking is very attractive. I'm 55 next week and will receive my first pension that should help stop the gap and there's also the nearly 2 years salary as redundancy payment.

I'm not from nature the indecisive type, but there's a small niggling feeling holding me back. I've been given a week to decide so will use that before making my mind up.

---

Thats really interesting about the postman thought. 15 years ago I was made redundant, experienced some highs (time with my kids, battery recharging) and lows (feelings of worthlessness, anxiety etc) and then applied for and got a postie job as a lifestyle choice. It sounded just what I needed; fresh air, extra exercise, time to recharge the batteries. I lasted 8 days :faf: I think it very much depends on the round you get, certainly in the UK. The cushy rounds are worth their weight in gold, mine was characterized by running away from angry alsatians (stereotype but it’s a true one, check out the stats for hospitalisation of postmen) and getting home well after dark with as yet undelivered mail in a bag at the front door. hopefully you will have an easy round tripping around rural Germany watching the autumn leaves turn gold :greengrin

Midweek I was told my job is at risk. I work for a major organisation and always sort of felt protected. So being told at 31 i may be made redundant hit like a ton of bricks

I felt terrible the first 24 hours. Having a mortgage, a family, bills etc it made me feel like a failure and that we could lose it all.

After some lengthy chats with some good friends and time to gather my thoughts im now a bit more relaxed knowing I'll have a 10 year redundancy package and gives me an opportunity to change career, something I've contemplated for a couple of years now

Don't really know what my point is other than sharing my story and getting my thoughts out - I suppose one thing I would say is talk. These are life changing and can have major impact so if you're at risk or are in the process of being made redundant don't bottle all your feelings up

Quote:

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Originally Posted by GreenNWhiteArmy

Midweek I was told my job is at risk. I work for a major organisation and always sort of felt protected. So being told at 31 i may be made redundant hit like a ton of bricks

I felt terrible the first 24 hours. Having a mortgage, a family, bills etc it made me feel like a failure and that we could lose it all.

After some lengthy chats with some good friends and time to gather my thoughts im now a bit more relaxed knowing I'll have a 10 year redundancy package and gives me an opportunity to change career, something I've contemplated for a couple of years now

Don't really know what my point is other than sharing my story and getting my thoughts out - I suppose one thing I would say is talk. These are life changing and can have major impact so if you're at risk or are in the process of being made redundant don't bottle all your feelings up

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That sounds like an opportunity more than a crisis. Good luck.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by GreenNWhiteArmy

Midweek I was told my job is at risk. I work for a major organisation and always sort of felt protected. So being told at 31 i may be made redundant hit like a ton of bricks

I felt terrible the first 24 hours. Having a mortgage, a family, bills etc it made me feel like a failure and that we could lose it all.

After some lengthy chats with some good friends and time to gather my thoughts im now a bit more relaxed knowing I'll have a 10 year redundancy package and gives me an opportunity to change career, something I've contemplated for a couple of years now

Don't really know what my point is other than sharing my story and getting my thoughts out - I suppose one thing I would say is talk. These are life changing and can have major impact so if you're at risk or are in the process of being made redundant don't bottle all your feelings up

---

I pretty quickly turned it round in my mind to a massive positive and an opportunity to do something completely different. Like many people told me, I would possibly have never taken the new challenge on otherwise.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by GreenNWhiteArmy

Midweek I was told my job is at risk. I work for a major organisation and always sort of felt protected. So being told at 31 i may be made redundant hit like a ton of bricks

I felt terrible the first 24 hours. Having a mortgage, a family, bills etc it made me feel like a failure and that we could lose it all.

After some lengthy chats with some good friends and time to gather my thoughts im now a bit more relaxed knowing I'll have a 10 year redundancy package and gives me an opportunity to change career, something I've contemplated for a couple of years now

Don't really know what my point is other than sharing my story and getting my thoughts out - I suppose one thing I would say is talk. These are life changing and can have major impact so if you're at risk or are in the process of being made redundant don't bottle all your feelings up

---

I was about your age when I decided to (finally) go to University.

I'd always had ****ty jobs, and had never earned much money, so finally did something about it by taking an Access Course at Stirling Uni. I then studied there for another four years in Computing Science. I worked part-time throughout and it was a hard slog but got there in the end,

I've been working as a Software Developer ever since and it's led to some really interesting experiences, living and working in places I never imagined (like Vienna, Bruges and Munich).

It can be difficult but sometimes a change can be for the better.


Best of luck.

:aok:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

I was about your age when I decided to (finally) go to University.

I'd always had ****ty jobs, and had never earned much money, so finally did something about it by taking an Access Course at Stirling Uni. I then studied there for another four years in Computing Science. I worked part-time throughout and it was a hard slog but got there in the end,

I've been working as a Software Developer ever since and it's led to some really interesting experiences, living and working in places I never imagined (like Vienna, Bruges and Munich).

It can be difficult but sometimes a change can be for the better.


Best of luck.

:aok:

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Well done on this Keith, huge leap, big inspiration as well, I’m 38 this pandemic, being put on furlough for 5 months and the threat of redundancy made me get my head out the sand a little and realise I’m working one of these ‘***tty’ jobs and instead of worrying I should be attempting to better myself, so I started a open uni course in Computing & IT with Buisness management as a second course I’m loving it so far. Still working the ***tty job and redundancy is still hanging over but I’ve realised in part to this thread I’ve a nice package to come and soften the blow it isn’t all doom and gloom, once I get Xmas and new year out the way I’m planning on looking for others in the field I’m studying or just to get out where I am and work hours that help me do more study and more of a life balance paid off or not.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

That sounds like an opportunity more than a crisis. Good luck.

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by Scouse Hibee

I pretty quickly turned it round in my mind to a massive positive and an opportunity to do something completely different. Like many people told me, I would possibly have never taken the new challenge on otherwise.

---

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Keith_M

I was about your age when I decided to (finally) go to University.

I'd always had ****ty jobs, and had never earned much money, so finally did something about it by taking an Access Course at Stirling Uni. I then studied there for another four years in Computing Science. I worked part-time throughout and it was a hard slog but got there in the end,

I've been working as a Software Developer ever since and it's led to some really interesting experiences, living and working in places I never imagined (like Vienna, Bruges and Munich).

It can be difficult but sometimes a change can be for the better.


Best of luck.

:aok:

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Cheers folks, certainly in a much better place now than i was last week and looking forward to the opportunities that may come my way

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Dmas

Well done on this Keith, huge leap, big inspiration as well, I’m 38 this pandemic, being put on furlough for 5 months and the threat of redundancy made me get my head out the sand a little and realise I’m working one of these ‘***tty’ jobs and instead of worrying I should be attempting to better myself, so I started a open uni course in Computing & IT with Buisness management as a second course I’m loving it so far. Still working the ***tty job and redundancy is still hanging over but I’ve realised in part to this thread I’ve a nice package to come and soften the blow it isn’t all doom and gloom, once I get Xmas and new year out the way I’m planning on looking for others in the field I’m studying or just to get out where I am and work hours that help me do more study and more of a life balance paid off or not.

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That was my (original) main and second courses as well. I wasn't so keen on the business management but kept the computing part going, as I thought it was really interesting.

Best of luck and well done for making the effort.

Just got asked to take voluntary redundancy over compulsory, will get to leave a month earlier and still be paid, could affect a few of my work benefits if I go early, seems they want me off the books by the year end. Not sure what to do but now seeing this as a great opportunity to retrain and have taken a lot of hope from others on here

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jakhog1

Just got asked to take voluntary redundancy over compulsory, will get to leave a month earlier and still be paid, could affect a few of my work benefits if I go early, seems they want me off the books by the year end. Not sure what to do but now seeing this as a great opportunity to retrain and have taken a lot of hope from others on here

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Best of luck mate.

:aok:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Best of luck mate.

:aok:

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Cheers buddy

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hibsbollah

Thats really interesting about the postman thought. 15 years ago I was made redundant, experienced some highs (time with my kids, battery recharging) and lows (feelings of worthlessness, anxiety etc) and then applied for and got a postie job as a lifestyle choice. It sounded just what I needed; fresh air, extra exercise, time to recharge the batteries. I lasted 8 days :faf: I think it very much depends on the round you get, certainly in the UK. The cushy rounds are worth their weight in gold, mine was characterized by running away from angry alsatians (stereotype but it’s a true one, check out the stats for hospitalisation of postmen) and getting home well after dark with as yet undelivered mail in a bag at the front door. hopefully you will have an easy round tripping around rural Germany watching the autumn leaves turn gold :greengrin

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I didn't get past day 1. Went in to discuss terms and conditions on Monday and ended up telling them to blow it out their arse, which is a real shame as I was certain this would work out. My main problem was that they were only offering temporary contracts of 3 months that would be extended or not every 3 months until a decision would be made after 2 years to whether the contract would be extended or not. No way was I going work on what is effectively a 2 year probationary period.

Now have an appointment with the employment office on Monday to see how much they are willing to finance a retraining HGV1, dangerous goods, forklift and professional driver's certification. Course would be 4 months long starting on January the 4th, if they don't fund it then I'll pay myself. Have my HGV medical tomorrow which is a prerequisite for the whole process but it shouldn't be a problem as I'd just renewed my aviation medical last month.

Maybe you were right, maybe I was being overly romantic about life as Postman Plod.

Does anyone have any experience with these companies that offer training in a given vocation with virtual guarantee of a job at the end?


considering something like this if I get made redundant, but unsure how reliable these kind of things can be

Quote:

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Originally Posted by McD

Does anyone have any experience with these companies that offer training in a given vocation with virtual guarantee of a job at the end?


considering something like this if I get made redundant, but unsure how reliable these kind of things can be

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My initial thoughts are that sounds abit dubious.

What is the job/industry?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by McD

Does anyone have any experience with these companies that offer training in a given vocation with virtual guarantee of a job at the end?


considering something like this if I get made redundant, but unsure how reliable these kind of things can be

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Not personally but a locksmith I've used in the past said he went on one of these courses (to retrain as a locksmith). Said it was a waste of money and wouldn't have helped because it only covered about 5% of the job. He did an unofficial apprenticeship in the end, shadowing a friend of a friend who was close to retirement for a couple of years.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Since90+2

My initial thoughts are that sounds abit dubious.

What is the job/industry?

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by Speedy

Not personally but a locksmith I've used in the past said he went on one of these courses (to retrain as a locksmith). Said it was a waste of money and wouldn't have helped because it only covered about 5% of the job. He did an unofficial apprenticeship in the end, shadowing a friend of a friend who was close to retirement for a couple of years.

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thanks both :aok:


I haven’t decided on an industry yet (have a couple of ideas that I’ve seen adverts for training for), was just something I’d picked up on and thought I’d ask about.

I think they operate by charging fairly hefty fees, and are linked into recruitment agencies for those industries.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by McD

Does anyone have any experience with these companies that offer training in a given vocation with virtual guarantee of a job at the end?

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My brother-in-law done a gas/plumbing course at a place in Dalgety Bay. Cost £1000's and virtually guaranteed a job at the end.
I advised against it as a few good friends I have are in the trade and they say the folk come out with zero experience so are of little use.
He done the course, passed, was offered a sales job with a boiler company in Dunfermline and is still keeping the couch warm watching daytime telly but at least his bank balance is a bit lighter?!?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by McD

Does anyone have any experience with these companies that offer training in a given vocation with virtual guarantee of a job at the end?


considering something like this if I get made redundant, but unsure how reliable these kind of things can be

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In my last job I dealt with a lot of these companies daily. You will get a qualification but it's not worth much in the real world. I'm afraid it's easy money for them with not a lot of opportunities for you. I'd steer clear if I were you. Apprentices serve years learning a trade, it can't be done in a couple of months.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by speedy_gonzales

My brother-in-law done a gas/plumbing course at a place in Dalgety Bay. Cost £1000's and virtually guaranteed a job at the end.
I advised against it as a few good friends I have are in the trade and they say the folk come out with zero experience so are of little use.
He done the course, passed, was offered a sales job with a boiler company in Dunfermline and is still keeping the couch warm watching daytime telly but at least his bank balance is a bit lighter?!?

---

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Peanut Shaz

In my last job I dealt with a lot of these companies daily. You will get a qualification but it's not worth much in the real world. I'm afraid it's easy money for them with not a lot of opportunities for you. I'd steer clear if I were you. Apprentices serve years learning a trade, it can't be done in a couple of months.

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thank you both.

it wasn’t quite a trade in the sense of the traditional meaning of the word I’d been thinking about, but after everyone’s thoughts I’m thinking maybe best to steer clear

cheers again everyone 😊

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Hope your Mrs survives the cull Keith.

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Ironically, she has survived the cull but I've just found out that my employer is moving most of the jobs at my work to Bangalore.

We have a large and long established tech-hub in Glasgow but most of the mid and upper level IT managers in my Department are Indian and located in New York. There's been some difficulties for quite some time due to 'cultural differences' between them and the employees in Glasgow, i.e. the expectation that we should be willing to work 12 hour days, do support out-of-hours and basically ignore our contracts (as they already do in our Bangalore office).

There's already been a hiring surge in Glasgow in the last two-three years that means that more than 30% of the employees located here are Indian, plus around 50% of the Team Leads (low level managers)... but they've obviously now decided to go the whole hog.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Ironically, she has survived the cull but I've just found out that my employer is moving most of the jobs at my work to Bangalore.

We have a large and long established tech-hub in Glasgow but most of the mid and upper level IT managers in my Department are Indian and located in New York. There's been some difficulties for quite some time due to 'cultural differences' between them and the employees in Glasgow, i.e. the expectation that we should be willing to work 12 hour days, do support out-of-hours and basically ignore our contracts (as they already do in our Bangalore office).

There's already been a hiring surge in Glasgow in the last two-three years that means that more than 30% of the employees located here are Indian, plus around 50% of the Team Leads (low level managers)... but they've obviously now decided to go the whole hog.

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****, that's a kick in the nuts. Hope you're safe. My Mrs is a software developer with SAP and they're doing the same in the US. Luckily in Germany employment laws make it very expensive for companies to outsource abroad. They've been offering early retirement packages the last few years, she should bite their hand off if she's offered it again.

Fingers crossed for you mate.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

****, that's a kick in the nuts. Hope you're safe. My Mrs is a software developer with SAP and they're doing the same in the US. Luckily in Germany employment laws make it very expensive for companies to outsource abroad. They've been offering early retirement packages the last few years, she should bite their hand off if she's offered it again.

Fingers crossed for you mate.

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Thanks.

TBH, now that most people are doing home-working, finding another job isn't as much of a big deal as it used to be.

DLR are actually advertising for people to work remotely on an Air Traffic Control project, but I'd have to be able to travel to Germany at some point in the new year.


I'm not clever enough to work for SAP, though :wink:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

****, that's a kick in the nuts. Hope you're safe. My Mrs is a software developer with SAP and they're doing the same in the US. Luckily in Germany employment laws make it very expensive for companies to outsource abroad. They've been offering early retirement packages the last few years, she should bite their hand off if she's offered it again.

Fingers crossed for you mate.

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I wish we had employment laws like that in Scotland, I’m losing my job in the next year or two along with most of my colleagues to Indian employees who are both here in Edinburgh and back in India.

It’s going to be bad enough for kids to find a decent job in the next few years after Covid without this continual drive to outsource, hopefully our government will sit up and take notice before it’s too late but sadly I think that’s highly unlikely.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Thanks.

TBH, now that most people are doing home-working, finding another job isn't as much of a big deal as it used to be.

DLR are actually advertising for people to work remotely on an Air Traffic Control project, but I'd have to be able to travel to Germany at some point in the new year.


I'm not clever enough to work for SAP, though :wink:

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Maybe get that pint after all.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hibee

I wish we had employment laws like that in Scotland, I’m losing my job in the next year or two along with most of my colleagues to Indian employees who are both here in Edinburgh and back in India.

It’s going to be bad enough for kids to find a decent job in the next few years after Covid without this continual drive to outsource, hopefully our government will sit up and take notice before it’s too late but sadly I think that’s highly unlikely.

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It doesn't have to be that way. But for the life of me I can't understand why the British public stand for it.

Had an interview with the German employment agency today, to try and get them to partially fund my retraining. They've offered to fully fund my 5 month course as a professional driver and pay for my HGV1, forklift truck and dangerous goods licenses. I was fully expecting to have to fork out a considerable amount from my redundancy payment to pay for it. I'm absolutely blown away by how easy it was, I was expecting to have to jump through endless hoops to get anything at all. I'm genuinely touched.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Had an interview with the German employment agency today, to try and get them to partially fund my retraining. They've offered to fully fund my 5 month course as a professional driver and pay for my HGV1, forklift truck and dangerous goods licenses. I was fully expecting to have to fork out a considerable amount from my redundancy payment to pay for it. I'm absolutely blown away by how easy it was, I was expecting to have to jump through endless hoops to get anything at all. I'm genuinely touched.

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That’s fantastic and also a sensible approach from them, you get the training and are almost certain to get work at the end of it so continue paying tax and contributing to the economy.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Had an interview with the German employment agency today, to try and get them to partially fund my retraining. They've offered to fully fund my 5 month course as a professional driver and pay for my HGV1, forklift truck and dangerous goods licenses. I was fully expecting to have to fork out a considerable amount from my redundancy payment to pay for it. I'm absolutely blown away by how easy it was, I was expecting to have to jump through endless hoops to get anything at all. I'm genuinely touched.

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that’s brilliant 😊

Quote:

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Originally Posted by hibee

That’s fantastic and also a sensible approach from them, you get the training and are almost certain to get work at the end of it so continue paying tax and contributing to the economy.

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Spot on. If all goes well they'll have their investment in me paid back in taxes within a year and will avoid having someone collecting unemployment benefits. I'm so glad that they think longterm rather than just try and save a few €. I've never been unemployed in my life and at 55 it's a great feeling to know that the government haven't written me off and are willing to invest in me.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by McD

that’s brilliant 😊

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It's clever too. They've put their faith in me and I'm motivated to return the favour.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

It's clever too. They've put their faith in me and I'm motivated to return the favour.

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In France employers are obliged to pay into a training fund - 1% of the gross wage bill up to 10 employees and 0.55% for more than 10 employees. If you're looking to do some training, CPD or even a complete change of profession you can contact the organising body to see how much is in your individual account - you can then choose how you spend it as long as it's with accredited organisations.

A couple of years ago I did 10 days of Revit/3D CAD training (about £4k IIRC) which was paid from this and one of my workmates, at 45 years old, looks like he's about to retrain to become a chef with the bulk being paid from this scheme.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

It's clever too. They've put their faith in me and I'm motivated to return the favour.

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Germany are head, shoulders, knees and toes above us here in the U.K. when it comes to this sort of thing.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Had an interview with the German employment agency today, to try and get them to partially fund my retraining. They've offered to fully fund my 5 month course as a professional driver and pay for my HGV1, forklift truck and dangerous goods licenses. I was fully expecting to have to fork out a considerable amount from my redundancy payment to pay for it. I'm absolutely blown away by how easy it was, I was expecting to have to jump through endless hoops to get anything at all. I'm genuinely touched.

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Wow thats fantastic mate :aok: thats about £5k worth of courses there.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Peevemor

In France employers are obliged to pay into a training fund - 1% of the gross wage bill up to 10 employees and 0.55% for more than 10 employees. If you're looking to do some training, CPD or even a complete change of profession you can contact the organising body to see how much is in your individual account - you can then choose how you spend it as long as it's with accredited organisations.

A couple of years ago I did 10 days of Revit/3D CAD training (about £4k IIRC) which was paid from this and one of my workmates, at 45 years old, looks like he's about to retrain to become a chef with the bulk being paid from this scheme.

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Makes complete sense. Unless of course it's in the UK where the thought of raising income tax by 1% to help the workforce educate themselves or retrain would be seen as Marxist lunacy.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Smartie

Germany are head, shoulders, knees and toes above us here in the U.K. when it comes to this sort of thing.

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Not just Germany, I think most central and northern European countries have found a fairer balance between looking after employees and supporting businesses, there's no reason you can't do both.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jones28

Wow thats fantastic mate :aok: thats about £5k worth of courses there.

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A little bit more buddy. The Germans are sticklers for qualifications and apprenticeships, for example a petrol station attendant would be expected to carry out a 3 year apprenticeship before he could qualify as a recognised "Tankwart". The training I will receive is a fast track course designed for people with driving experience that haven't done the 4 year professional driver apprenticeship that is needed here to drive commercially. Most of my time will be spent in the classroom preparing for the state exam and will cover general road safety, load safety, fuel efficient driving, vehicle maintenance and repair as well as other haulage industry related subject matter. The Germans don't do half arsed. All in all were looking at around €10 000.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

Not just Germany, I think most central and northern European countries have found a fairer balance between looking after employees and supporting businesses, there's no reason you can't do both.

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As I recall the German system had more pros than cons...the Christmas money was my favourite, there was also a savings scheme where the Government gave DM50ish and that was saved for 7 years and then paid out, doing your tax return also once a year normally led to a payout. First year of having a child they paid out DM400 ...yes tax his higher, but it goes back into the system rather than lining Torys and their chums pockets with huge tax breaks.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

A little bit more buddy. The Germans are sticklers for qualifications and apprenticeships, for example a petrol station attendant would be expected to carry out a 3 year apprenticeship before he could qualify as a recognised "Tankwart". The training I will receive is a fast track course designed for people with driving experience that haven't done the 4 year professional driver apprenticeship that is needed here to drive commercially. Most of my time will be spent in the classroom preparing for the state exam and will cover general road safety, load safety, fuel efficient driving, vehicle maintenance and repair as well as other haulage industry related subject matter. The Germans don't do half arsed. All in all were looking at around €10 000.

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Surely to qualify as an HGV driver in Berlin & Brandenburg you also need to be fluent in Polish?

The language courses must add quite a bit to the cost.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Surely to qualify as an HGV driver in Berlin & Brandenburg you also need to be fluent in Polish?

The language courses must add quite a bit to the cost.

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I thought similar, but it's only the pan European haulage that is "fest in polnischen Hände", most internal haulage is done by Germans.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Berwickhibby

As I recall the German system had more pros than cons...the Christmas money was my favourite, there was also a savings scheme where the Government gave DM50ish and that was saved for 7 years and then paid out, doing your tax return also once a year normally led to a payout. First year of having a child they paid out DM400 ...yes tax his higher, but it goes back into the system rather than lining Torys and their chums pockets with huge tax breaks.

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I think you're bang on the money with your final assumption.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

A little bit more buddy. The Germans are sticklers for qualifications and apprenticeships, for example a petrol station attendant would be expected to carry out a 3 year apprenticeship before he could qualify as a recognised "Tankwart". The training I will receive is a fast track course designed for people with driving experience that haven't done the 4 year professional driver apprenticeship that is needed here to drive commercially. Most of my time will be spent in the classroom preparing for the state exam and will cover general road safety, load safety, fuel efficient driving, vehicle maintenance and repair as well as other haulage industry related subject matter. The Germans don't do half arsed. All in all were looking at around €10 000.

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Holy ****, that's fantastic.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

I thought similar, but it's only the pan European haulage that is "fest in polnischen Hände", most internal haulage is done by Germans.

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TBF, I did see a couple of German HGVs the last time we visited, so you might be OK.

But just in case, here's lesson number 1...


Always say 'dzień dobry', not 'dobry dzień'. If you use the latter, you'll come across as a person trying to sound Polish but failing miserably

:wink:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

TBF, I did see a couple of German HGVs the last time we visited, so you might be OK.

But just in case, here's lesson number 1...


Always say 'dzień dobry', not 'dobry dzień'. If you use the latter, you'll come across as a person trying to sound Polish but failing miserably

:wink:

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They all speak English, they've learnt it from Country and Western songs whilst on the road.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Hibrandenburg

They all speak English, they've learnt it from Country and Western songs whilst on the road.

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So, "Howdy y'all" would be preferable?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

Thanks.

TBH, now that most people are doing home-working, finding another job isn't as much of a big deal as it used to be.

DLR are actually advertising for people to work remotely on an Air Traffic Control project, but I'd have to be able to travel to Germany at some point in the new year.

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DLR job didn't progress (they decided they want somebody with a Masters) but I've practically been offered a job with a start-up in Dresden.

I thought I was back in Scotland for good but it just hasn't worked out, with one thing and another, so it might be for the best.

Wherever I go next, I want it to be the last move I ever make, so it's a big decision.

p.s. Has anybody else got progress reports on re-training, finding new roles, etc?

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

DLR job didn't progress (they decided they want somebody with a Masters) but I've practically been offered a job with a start-up in Dresden.

I thought I was back in Scotland for good but it just hasn't worked out, with one thing and another, so it might be for the best.

Wherever I go next, I want it to be the last move I ever make, so it's a big decision.

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Who are DLR?

(Not sure why Docklands Light Railway would need air traffic controllers).

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Originally Posted by Smartie

Who are DLR?

(Not sure why Docklands Light Railway would need air traffic controllers).

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Docklands Light Railway are the leading suppliers of Air Traffic Software in the world, according to Gavin Williamson



Or if you're not a brainwashed Brexiteer, it could stand for Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (German Aerospace Center)

:wink:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Keith_M

p.s. Has anybody else got progress reports on re-training, finding new roles, etc?

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I found out a few days ago I am at risk of redundancy, will be leaving on the 31st of December unless I find another role. I have applied for one, and another dept have offered me a position even tbhough they know its not really what I want to do (I worked closely with them for several years, and they've made it clear I'm very well thought of), and it would be a step down into a space where it would be more difficult to move on to something I'd want to do, which they've also acknowledged.


That all said, the redundancy package is not to be sniffed at, about a years salary plus some benefits for a year, so if the job I've applied for doesn't pan out I think i'll likely be leaving.


To begin with I was really keen to stay, but being a rep during collective consultation has shown me a lot about the people at the top, and having seen what the new world looks like, I'm releived I won't be a part of it, so getting offered a redundancy package isn't necessarily a bad option (most people who are staying are not happy)