Changing jobs while on Furlough

bobbypa

Hi,
My partner is currently waiting to get a start date for a new job and has been told to wait to hand in her notice at her current job until start date is confirmed. 

In the meanwhile her current job have told her she may be put onto Furlough pay at the end of this week. 

Is it best to put her notice in now prior to being placed on furlough or can she still hand it in next week and be entitled to furlough pay from her current employer?

Many Thanks

calcotti

I would say definitely do not hand in notice until the last possible moment. If the new job gets delayed and notice has been given partner will be without a job at all. 
If he gives in notice now there is no reason for employer to put her on furlough.

7Phil

Talking to the partner: Do not hand your notice in this situation. It is too risky. Given the circumstances I would ask the new employer to provide an unconditional letter of employment before you hand in notice and finish your job, especially if the notice period is longer than a couple of weeks.
Alternatively, if the current employer is aware of the change of job already then ensure you can reverse your notice if the new job falls through. If you are furloughed - I would not expect there would be any issues leaving your job and changing to the new job. I don't understand the furlough rules though. HR may assist you with advice so approach them if you are on friendly terms.

HornetSaver

Can't reiterate the first two replies more strongly. Do not hand in notice until the latest possible moment, and even then it should be a very considered decision. Certainly not suggesting that your partner should switch off their ambitions at the current time, however lot of businesses are deciding not to furlough and shut down or lay off instead; an employer actually implementing furlough is therefore not one to be left lightly.