My company is restructuring and I've been told my current job will disappear (merged into another role), but that I will have an opportunity to compete for the new role in a selection process.I reckon I have an above 50% chance of getting it if I apply, assuming I'm not discrimated against). If I decide not to apply I will be offered redundancy.
However, I'm currently 16 weeks pregnant (my boss knows) and I can't decide what to do because:
- my redundancy payment will probably be the same or more as I would have earned during the period of Mat leave if I stay employed ( and work up to 6 weeks before birth)(our Mat pay is only statutory)
- the job I can apply for is less attractive to me
than my current
- if I take redundancy I will get exec. outplacement support, and may also be given 'gardening leave' (i.e. paid to stay at home) between now and the end of May.
My instincts (and my dh!) are urging me to 'get out with the dosh' (the company's future is looking a bit ropey anyway!) but I don't know if my 'game plan' is sensible?
If I took redundancy, and got time off between now and the birth, I could:
- get outplacement support
- update CV
- register (and preliminary interview) with all relevant recruitment consultancts, but make it clear to them that I will not be available until Nov/ Dec 2002 earliest.
- Explore other part-time/short term contract opportunities etc.
Am I mad thinking about doing this? I already have one child (aged 2) so I'm not completely naive about how difficult the first 6 months after birth can be...