fixed term contracts can they be converted to permanent?

[csr203]

Hi. I'm on a fixed term contract within the civil service. I have had a few successive contracts and have been there over two years. There is talk of making some fixed term posts permanent. In my particular area (office location, geographical area covered in my work) I'm the only person on such a contract. I have been told however that I might have to apply for my own job. Do I have any rights/are they able to offer me a permanent contract or must they advertise? Just to confirm I'm in the uk, gained my current contract through fair and open competition and have been regularly praised for doing a good job.

[SPQR]

Re: fixed term contracts can they be converted to permanent?

You will automatically become a permanent employee after 4 years on fixed-term contracts (unless the employer can show there is a good business reason not to do so). However, your employer could still offer you a permanent contract if they wanted to.

As you have been an employee for two years, you do have certain rights but these mainly are about rights to claim redundancy pay or claim unfair dismissal.

For more information on the rights of employees on fixed term contracts see: www.gov.uk/fixed-term-contracts

[csr203]

Re: fixed term contracts can they be converted to permanent?

I guess that's my main question. They could offer it to me if they wanted to. The post will be for my exact job and it's deflating that they are talking of advertising it despite my colleagues and boss all saying they are desperate to keep me. Thank you for the advice.

[SPQR]

Re: fixed term contracts can they be converted to permanent?

I don't know whether the Civil Service have additional rules which mean they have to advertise.

[teaboy2]

Re: fixed term contracts can they be converted to permanent?

I think best way of describing this situation is that as your on a fixed term and they are looking for a full time replacement after your fix term contract ends. Then they need to advertise it, to they ensure carry out a full and fair recruitment process and that the best candidate is selected.

Civil Services do usually advertise jobs even if currently filled by fixed term employees and so do a lot of other companies, as there is no obligation on an employer to offer you employment when your on a fixed term contract terminates/ends. Though it is harder for them do say your not permanent employee if you have been there for 4 years or more with no breaks in your employment.