Counter-offer but already signed contract at new job

matduggy

I currently work for Local Authority "A" and following an interview at Local Authority "B", I have been offered a similar job, but on a career grade and better starting salary. I have filled in my Medical Form and signed and returned the Contract of Employment back to "B". I have been told not to hand in my formal notice to "A" until "B" have received satisfactory references and confirmed that I have passed the medical. Therefore I do not currently have a start date for "B", but in any event I will need to work a month's notice at "A".

However, to complicate matters, my employers "A" have now made a last minute counter-offer, because they have realised how valuable I am to the team and don't want to lose me. The counter-offer from "A" is on a higher scale to "B" and there is potential to be introduced onto a career grade in the future - although this has not been confirmed.

Job "B" involves a big life decision - moving a long way from home and renting out a property, whilst Job "A" involves staying with parents and saving money i.e. status quo. Even though I was all mentally psyched up for a new job, my current employers "A" have swayed me and I am seriously considering their counter-offer.

My question is - because I've already signed a contract of employment with "B", if I accept the counter-offer from "A", where does that leave me legally? Do I have no choice and have to take up employment from "B"? Or can the lack of a start date be used as a get-out clause and stay with "A"?

I am not the type of person that likes letting anyone down, and I realise the predicament I have got myself into. Job "B" is a really good offer, yet staying with "A" requires less personal and financial risk. Obviously I want to do what is best for me, but I would appreciate some constructive advice on my legal contract situation.

surreysaver

Don't worry about letting anyone down. It is just business - feelings do not come into it. An employer wouldn't think twice about getting rid of you if they needed to, so just go with who you want and don't feel guilty!

cazziebo

You don't have any worries legally, and can decline the offer at any time up until starting. Do what's best for you.

matduggy

Thanks both of you for your constructive support, I will let you know how I get on once this progresses further.

robnye

i would suggest you try and get something more concrete regarding job A, relating to career path... as it could just be words to get you to stay..... on better money yes, but without an obvious career path

KILL_BILL

agreed with the aboive poster - many employers see good workers and try to bait them to stay with rewards say at a year down the line - when a year later arrives -excuses are then made by the employer as to why they then should not now agree to cpmply with what they originaly said.

brightonman123

devils advocate for a moment..

something prompted you to apply for the new job, and i trust you factored in the benefits, and travel / removal costs etc..

why is it only now that current job is being offered more pay? if you are that valuable, you should be getting the higher (proper?) rate already..

marcus45

Write and tell your prospective employer you have decided not to leave after all thank you for the offer of employment.. well its the truth is it not ...good luck