Ok here's the problem
I'm employed by a PCT for 3 days a week. They actually fund me for 1.5 days and the other 1.5 days funding comes from another source (from the strategic health authority) but my contract is with the PCT.
I've applied for a career break and I think it's going to be refused. The reason for the break is to accompany my husband abroad for 12 months (NHS doctor going to work in Sydney). I also plan to get some relevant training while I'm there.
I had maternity leave from June 2005 until January 2006 (so 6 months) and returned as planned.
The manager I have in the strategic health authority is happy for me to have the career break and will cover my job herself at no extra cost to the PCT.
My line manager in the NHS is looking to cut costs and wants to resign me and employ someone cheaper (without the right skills). She has also said, off the record, that one of the problems is that I've had a maternity leave within the last 12 months. I know for a fact that she isn't able to use this an an excuse but I don't have it in writing from her.
When I return from Australia, the 1.5 days a week funded by the SHA will still be mine so I'll definitely be returning to the department.
Where do I stand? If it's refused, who do I complain to, and where does the parliamentary and health service ombudsman come in?