Fixed term contract

[Londoner99]

Hi
I would be grateful for a view on my situation. I am employed on a fixed term contract which ends at Christmas. I have 16 years service with the local authority having moved from permanent to fixed term at my request.

The terms of my contract include 3 months notice on either side. I have been offered an extension for 12 months but with only a months notice from either party.

I've queried this as less favourable with HR who say it is correct. I've followed up in writing and am waiting for a response.

What should I do? I want the extension but I also want to be treated fairly.

[ULA]

Did you resign your permanent position and then recommence employment on a fixed term contract?

Did the local authority deem that your time as a permanent employee would count toward continuous services when you moved to fixed term contracts?

If not how long have you been on fixed term contracts?

[Londoner99]

Hi thanks for the reply. Yes my current contract confirms my continuous service. I resigned my previous post and commenced fixed term without s break.

[ULA]

I think your HR department’s stance is not entirely correct. If they want to offer to renew your fixed-term contract on less favourable terms then you have the right to negotiate with them to reach an agreement. If the contract ends and you have been unable to reach an agreement, then you may be able to claim unfair dismissal.