Starting new job while on parental leave during notice period

ehumby

Hello everyone,

This appears to be a question that no one has asked, as I have attempted to find the answer for about 30 minutes now!

I am currently working for the NHS in East London. I have a four week notice period which I am taking two weeks unpaid parental leave during the last two weeks. My employer stated it was fraud to start work at another company during two unpaid weeks. Is this correct?

I have been accepted for a position in a financial company as an administrator and I currently work as a support worker in a mental health hospital. It would seem there is no conflict of interest for my current employer and I know that it's fraud to work during unpaid leave/sick leave for another hospital in the NHS.

Can I start my new position during my final two weeks of notice whilst on unpaid parental leave?

touch*my*food*feel*myfork

yes this is correct, these 2 weeks are still classed as being in their employment - you officially do not stop working for them until the 4 weeks are up
and no you cannot start working elsewhere until that time is up

tomtontom

I would agree with touch my food, this is an abuse of policy and a breach of contract - should your current employer be so inclined they could discipline you and dismiss you for gross misconduct (this action could continue after your termination date). They could also state what you did in future references.

I think it is a very silly idea.

Tigsteroonie

Besides, do you not want to spend that parental leave time with your child(ren)?