Fed up

[Bob12345677]

I've been working in a public sector role for 4 years. During that time I've done lots of training and taken on lot more tasks. My job description and title have been updated recently to reflect this. I asked about a level review and this is happening but despite lots of positive noises initially it now seems that it's now unlikely to result in a change (quelle suprise!). Other than a) leave or b) find another job and leave what can I do? This is on top of constant promises to allow me to take part in projects to gain experience but it never seems to happen and other shenanigans so I've reached my limit and my mental health has been destroyed. I'm 53 so not a spring chicken therefore getting another job in a tough market feels almost impossible. Any advice is welcome.

Do you think there is some untoward reason this isn't happening, such as discrimination or victimisation? If so, then you have a potential legal route to go down.

Possibly, I'm not sure. I think it's more that employers have the upper hand at the moment and so feel like just replace anyone who leaves very easily so why bother trying to hold onto staff.

Work to your job description scrupulously and make a timeline. When it gets a bit busy at work, go of on sick leave for a few days. That’s how yiu tell them you are not a floor mop.

Are there any more senior roles in your team you could apply for? I guess if they’ve got budget for your job at the level you are currently and they aren’t given any more then they won’t have scope to just promote you and need someone at your grade. But if there is a job opening at a higher grade you could apply for that?

I am younger but in a similar position. What you do is the bare minimum to keep your job and what is required of you. No extras. In the meantime, look for and apply for promotions. When you get one, then leave.

I will but the problem is I've agreed a job description which has a lot more tasks assigned than I was on originally for the same level/pay so even if I stick to that and do no more in doing aot more than I was originally intended to do. I have no doubt that when I do leave they'll re advertise the position at a higher level, as they'll have to!

I'm 55 next month. Sacked from a senior role last year (education) and now working at a lower level.

It is is money but I'm trying to forget the concept of a "career" and not base my identity or self worth around a job title