Without doubt you will have a whole raft of domestic arrangements to make when preparing to move back to the UK. If you are locally employed as a ‘Dependant’ then these ‘Top Eight Tips’ may help you to plan ahead to best effect:
- Ensure that you hand in your Notice in good time: Please submit a letter of termination to GEO LEC HR no later than 8 weeks in advance of your intended final day of employment. Do not presume that this notice is not required even if you have already been advised by GEO LEC HR when your job is due to be terminated officially. The GEO LEC HR department will then be able to help you by completing all the necessary documentation you will need for the UK. Exceptions can be made in the case of short notice postings, health and domestic reasons. – Get in touch early – Help us to Help you!
- Ensure that GEO LEC HR has a forwarding address for you: GEO LEC HR may have correspondence for you after your departure from Germany.
- Have you thought about your final salary payment? Don’t forget to let your GEO LEC HR department know when you will be closing your German Bank Account and provide details of a UK Bank Account for final salary payment and/or Gratuity.
- Have you received your Notification of Termination - Form 126: GEO LEC HR will automatically issue you with a Form 126 on receipt of your letter of termination. This confirms your period of employment and your reason for leaving work. This may assist if/when you visit your local benefits office in the UK.
- Need proof of National Insurance Contributions? Keep hold of your final pay slips for each financial year, they will show all national insurance contributions made whilst employed. This is important when/if claiming benefits. If you have gaps in your employment history you may be entitled to National Insurance Credits: 2010DIN01-076 refers.
- Request a reference from your Line Manager or GEO LEC HR. Your Line Manager or GEO LEC HR will be able to provide you with an Employers reference.
- Looking for employment in the UK? Go online to find lots of useful information - The following websites may be of interest to you:
- https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk Useful information on choosing or changing career. Personalised help also available form a Careers Adviser.
- https://gov.uk Employment and benefits advice
- www.wearelifeworks.org.uk/families/ Employment advice for military spouses and partners. Free advice and support by phone, email and through courses.
- Want to run your own business, be your own boss? Free business start-up course and mentoring programme for Service Dependants, run by experienced and knowledgeable business advisors. Full details at: https://www.wlv.ac.uk/courses/hm-armed-forces/supporting-the-unsung-hero/