Change role - better the devil you know or don't?

[Mands0603]

Bit of a lurker but would value any advice / opinions.............

Been in my current job for almost 9 years - it has good points / bad points (what doesn't) but for about the last 12-18 months I have been looking to move. Applied for a few vacancies and managed a couple of interviews but never anything concrete until now.....

Have been offered a role, little bit more money, flexibility of hours around my child (starting an hour earlier 3 days a week @ 8 rather than 9 but finishing at time i would normally do in my current role) sounds too good to be true on paper BUT (there is always one) I have 2 concerns:

1. My current employer has always been good to me and me loyal to them so i feel SO guilty for even considering leaving - I know they will hate me for it and I don't want to let them down in any way

1. The new job is contracted which is due to finish in 18 months - they will place me elsewhere IF there is the option which is concerning

So - I am not sure what to do - my current role is permanent (although figures are down and there have been talks of wage cuts / reduction of staff) so do i take the chance to move and then start looking again in about 12 months or stick where I am in the current recession for the stability of family life and to pay the bills??????

If it wasn't for the fact that the job was contracted, I'd say go for it. Your current employer will drop you if they have to reduce staff, and at the end of the day, you need to look after yourself. But if the new job is not permanent, it is a gamble.