A week today I'll be out of Work and to be honest I'm starting to look forward to having a break. I reckon when I leave my place of work next Friday I'll be slightly sad, I've been there such a long time, over 33 years since I left school its been a part of my life.
Alas we all have to move on and this certainly is a Crossroads in my life, I'm unsure what direction I'll take, I've a few things in my mind for the immediate furture but I'll probably just see where life takes me.
One thing I've promised myself is not to become a coach potato, I must not get into a habit of lazing around. I intend to still set my alarm and not stay in bed too late, I'm planning to make sure I have something active to do every day whether that be jobs around the house or recreational things. I must keep my mind & body active, don't you agree ?
I've been thinking of making plans, goals, resolutions for next year, I'll blog a list as soon as its finalised. I want to get fitter & lose weight among many other things.
Showing posts with label Work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Work. Show all posts
Friday, December 14, 2007
Thursday, December 06, 2007
The Final Countdown
Its certainly getting close to me finishing work (21st Dec), I've still had no official contact from the new company to see if anything is on offer. To be honest I'm looking forward to Christmas off it'll be the first time I've had the full week off for a few years.
A lot of people leave tomorrow but a small skeleten crew including myself will be there to the end. It is just so quiet its sort of spooky.
A lot of people are off out for a drink tomorrow night but I'll just show my face and go home, I'm playing Table Tennis in the British League all weekend in Sheffield. The division is really tight with one point seperating the top five teams so every match is critical. We are equal top with 6 points and we play the team level with us first up Saturday morning. I've been struggling with cold all week but I am improving, hopfully I can up my performance we'll see.
Ok I'm missing the leaving do tomorrow but a few of us are off out for a meal next Wednesday, should be good I'll have to remember my Camera.
I've been scanning the deals for my travels next year, the prices arn't quite right yet but they are dropping so watch this space. I'm hoping to maybe visit some online friends during the next year, I reckon one is a cert (she knows who) but it'd be nice to meet more friends if possible, I suppose it depends where I go.
Take Care all of you xx.
A lot of people leave tomorrow but a small skeleten crew including myself will be there to the end. It is just so quiet its sort of spooky.
A lot of people are off out for a drink tomorrow night but I'll just show my face and go home, I'm playing Table Tennis in the British League all weekend in Sheffield. The division is really tight with one point seperating the top five teams so every match is critical. We are equal top with 6 points and we play the team level with us first up Saturday morning. I've been struggling with cold all week but I am improving, hopfully I can up my performance we'll see.
Ok I'm missing the leaving do tomorrow but a few of us are off out for a meal next Wednesday, should be good I'll have to remember my Camera.
I've been scanning the deals for my travels next year, the prices arn't quite right yet but they are dropping so watch this space. I'm hoping to maybe visit some online friends during the next year, I reckon one is a cert (she knows who) but it'd be nice to meet more friends if possible, I suppose it depends where I go.
Take Care all of you xx.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
I reckon I'm Busy
Yesterday at work we had a visit from a large group of people representing the new owners. I took a few of them around part of the site, I think they are just getting a feel for what they have bought.
When we had finished a tour one of the senior ones told me he is coming back to site to talk with me next week.
On a different subject England Football team failed to qualify for the European Championships last night when they were beaten 3-2 by Croatia. To be honest they were garbage but manager Steve McClarens selections & tactics were a complete disgrace. This morning he has just been sacked, not before time in my opinion.
To drop your goalkeeper and play a young lad in his first competitive international match was stupidity, the lad bottled it and his career is probably destroyed.
Why was Wayne Bridge playing and Ashley Cole on the bench, there is no comparison. Why play with only one striker ? I could go on but the result says it all.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom last night, I had a good night at Pool. It was the Local Pubs annual competition Semi & Finals night. I’d qualified for the Semi and was drawn to play my mate Lofty. It started badly when he won the first two frames of a best of five match, he then was on top in the third and got down to relatively easy Black. Of course his mental block against me kicked in (can’t beat me at anything) and he bottled it big style.
As they say “the rest is history” as I turned up the heat to win the remaining frames in style.
The 2nd semi also went to five and was won by my League team mate Phil. Two long matches and we started the (best of seven) Final at about 10.40pm, it was going to be a late one. Once again the match went to the wire although I was never behind 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-2, 3-3 to set up a grand finale. Again my nerve under pressure held firm into the early hours as I took the frame to be crowned Champion.
Tonight I’m out again playing Table Tennis for Lofty’s team in the local league so of course I’m sure I’ll mention the Pool, hell you’ve got to when you have the Bragging rights.
Hope I play better than I did in the York League on Tuesday, I was abysmal losing three straight to a Player I always normally beat. Our team got a bit of a drubbing 8-2 although I was involved in both our points, one singles and a doubles.
On another note I've not been doing too well on the weight loss I reckon, I've been eating and drinking too much lately. I've not weighed in so you never know. I've another leaving do on Friday night, its paid for by the company and about 60 people are going. A night of free drink and food is always fun.
Ah well that’s my update, take care everyone.
When we had finished a tour one of the senior ones told me he is coming back to site to talk with me next week.
On a different subject England Football team failed to qualify for the European Championships last night when they were beaten 3-2 by Croatia. To be honest they were garbage but manager Steve McClarens selections & tactics were a complete disgrace. This morning he has just been sacked, not before time in my opinion.
To drop your goalkeeper and play a young lad in his first competitive international match was stupidity, the lad bottled it and his career is probably destroyed.
Why was Wayne Bridge playing and Ashley Cole on the bench, there is no comparison. Why play with only one striker ? I could go on but the result says it all.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom last night, I had a good night at Pool. It was the Local Pubs annual competition Semi & Finals night. I’d qualified for the Semi and was drawn to play my mate Lofty. It started badly when he won the first two frames of a best of five match, he then was on top in the third and got down to relatively easy Black. Of course his mental block against me kicked in (can’t beat me at anything) and he bottled it big style.
As they say “the rest is history” as I turned up the heat to win the remaining frames in style.
The 2nd semi also went to five and was won by my League team mate Phil. Two long matches and we started the (best of seven) Final at about 10.40pm, it was going to be a late one. Once again the match went to the wire although I was never behind 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-2, 3-3 to set up a grand finale. Again my nerve under pressure held firm into the early hours as I took the frame to be crowned Champion.
Tonight I’m out again playing Table Tennis for Lofty’s team in the local league so of course I’m sure I’ll mention the Pool, hell you’ve got to when you have the Bragging rights.
Hope I play better than I did in the York League on Tuesday, I was abysmal losing three straight to a Player I always normally beat. Our team got a bit of a drubbing 8-2 although I was involved in both our points, one singles and a doubles.
On another note I've not been doing too well on the weight loss I reckon, I've been eating and drinking too much lately. I've not weighed in so you never know. I've another leaving do on Friday night, its paid for by the company and about 60 people are going. A night of free drink and food is always fun.
Ah well that’s my update, take care everyone.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
The Last Month
Today is 21st November so I make that one month to go to my last day at work. The date I have been served with for redundancy is 21st December.
I still haven't been contacted by the new owners so don't know if I'll be offered a job. If the rumours are correct they are supposed to be coming to site this week to talk with key personnel.
I'm still very undecided about what I want, I'll see what they have to say.
I still haven't been contacted by the new owners so don't know if I'll be offered a job. If the rumours are correct they are supposed to be coming to site this week to talk with key personnel.
I'm still very undecided about what I want, I'll see what they have to say.
Friday, November 09, 2007
Work to Christmas on 20% salary
I can confirm my finishing date at Work will be 21st December, Officially we close on 30th November but along with a few others I've been asked to stay an extra 3 weeks. This new date is the handover of the site to the new owners.
My final two payments (Nov & Dec) I will be only actually getting 20% cos I've made a decision to put 8o% as voluntary contributions into my works pension. By doing this I can beat the Taxman and significantly boost my pension when I decide to take it.
Don't panic I wont be poor on this rate, ok my Nov pay will be low but my December payment includes on top of my months salary, 3 extra months notice period payed up, my holidays paid up and numerous bonuses. Basically I'll still end up about double what I normally get in my bank and also stop the Taxman getting a huge slice.
On top of this I will also be getting a very good severance payment and a large slice of this is tax free, the 2nd part I pay tax on but have an option of putting in my pension to save the tax. The rate for this isn't as good as for salary "voluntary contributions" so I'm undecided which way I'll go.
Works pension calculations are complicated but its based on aged 60, I have options of taking it early with penalties (6% compound interest per year = 55% pension at 50), I considering taking at 50, 52 or 55, more sums to do.
Anyway the new company may offer me a job but I'm unsure what I'll do, my department is in tatters, of the 5 men I have working for me 3 have found jobs and one is retiring, only leaves two of us. The hassle and stress of trying to keep a 24hr/365day process running may not be worth it. I've never had the ambition of been the richest man in the graveyard.
Well back to my Maths.
My final two payments (Nov & Dec) I will be only actually getting 20% cos I've made a decision to put 8o% as voluntary contributions into my works pension. By doing this I can beat the Taxman and significantly boost my pension when I decide to take it.
Don't panic I wont be poor on this rate, ok my Nov pay will be low but my December payment includes on top of my months salary, 3 extra months notice period payed up, my holidays paid up and numerous bonuses. Basically I'll still end up about double what I normally get in my bank and also stop the Taxman getting a huge slice.
On top of this I will also be getting a very good severance payment and a large slice of this is tax free, the 2nd part I pay tax on but have an option of putting in my pension to save the tax. The rate for this isn't as good as for salary "voluntary contributions" so I'm undecided which way I'll go.
Works pension calculations are complicated but its based on aged 60, I have options of taking it early with penalties (6% compound interest per year = 55% pension at 50), I considering taking at 50, 52 or 55, more sums to do.
Anyway the new company may offer me a job but I'm unsure what I'll do, my department is in tatters, of the 5 men I have working for me 3 have found jobs and one is retiring, only leaves two of us. The hassle and stress of trying to keep a 24hr/365day process running may not be worth it. I've never had the ambition of been the richest man in the graveyard.
Well back to my Maths.
Friday, November 02, 2007
Takeover
Well it looks like the takeover at work is going to happen but the good part is of course I'm still getting my contract terminated. This means I'll still get all my redundancy money at the end of this month irrespective of whether I work for the new company or not.
We don't even know what the plans are for the site, what products they will make but we are expecting the owners to come to site and start recruiting an initial team. According to the local newspaper they are hoping to start some production in January/Febuary. I think a lot of money needs spending on site infrastructure cos a lot of maintenance work is required.
I reckon with my job and site knowledge I should be offered a job but I'm making no decision until I see the offer, I'm certainly fancying December off at least. At present I'm very open minded about what I'll do, just need some thinking time.
Tell you more later.
We don't even know what the plans are for the site, what products they will make but we are expecting the owners to come to site and start recruiting an initial team. According to the local newspaper they are hoping to start some production in January/Febuary. I think a lot of money needs spending on site infrastructure cos a lot of maintenance work is required.
I reckon with my job and site knowledge I should be offered a job but I'm making no decision until I see the offer, I'm certainly fancying December off at least. At present I'm very open minded about what I'll do, just need some thinking time.
Tell you more later.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Work Update
Well the takeover absolute dedline came and went and we are still no wiser -
11.00am - Local MP talks to staff rep on phone inform us the papers are been signed over.
11.30am - Local press phones Plant Manager asking him about takeover, he refuses to comment as he has not had confirmation from head office.
2.30pm - Absolute dedline for takeover passes.
3.00pm - Plant Manager phones head office to see whats happening to be told agreement close takeover imminent, me thinks we been here before.
4.00pm - People go home including Me & Plant Manager.
I've lost count how many dedlines we've passed, now we all go home for good in one months time we need to know whats happening.
Hell I'm pissed off.
11.00am - Local MP talks to staff rep on phone inform us the papers are been signed over.
11.30am - Local press phones Plant Manager asking him about takeover, he refuses to comment as he has not had confirmation from head office.
2.30pm - Absolute dedline for takeover passes.
3.00pm - Plant Manager phones head office to see whats happening to be told agreement close takeover imminent, me thinks we been here before.
4.00pm - People go home including Me & Plant Manager.
I've lost count how many dedlines we've passed, now we all go home for good in one months time we need to know whats happening.
Hell I'm pissed off.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Soon be the Weekend
Well life is boring at present tonight I was supposed to be playing Table Tennis in my home town local league. The standard is not great and I don't play too often in this league nowadays but I was looking forward to it as it was against one of the better sides. Work is also boring at present so any nightime activities are good.
While on Work we should find out before next Wednesday whether the takeover bid is succesfull, I don't know what will be best to be honest. A couple of the blokes in my department have found jobs and will be leaving next month. You can't blame them and I hope it works out for them they are good lads.
We'll sure have a leaving do to say goodbye but I'm sure everyone will keep in touch. I'm actually at another leaving do tomoz for one of the Fitters called Chris who starts a new job next week. Its straight after work just a few beers with workmates.
Saturday the mighty whites are at home to Millwall but I can't go as I've a TT training session. A lot of tickets have been sold and it will be a big crowd and great atmosphere. Its not a bad one to miss cos Millwall Supporters have a big reputation for violence, their Mob the "Bushwackers" make Hitler Youth look like Liberals. Ok Leeds also have a bit of a reputation and I've a bad feeling about this fixture we'll probably end up getting docked some more points.
Sunday I've actually got a TT match its in the Yorkshire League I'm representing York against Halifax, it could be a tough game but thats how I like it.
While on Work we should find out before next Wednesday whether the takeover bid is succesfull, I don't know what will be best to be honest. A couple of the blokes in my department have found jobs and will be leaving next month. You can't blame them and I hope it works out for them they are good lads.
We'll sure have a leaving do to say goodbye but I'm sure everyone will keep in touch. I'm actually at another leaving do tomoz for one of the Fitters called Chris who starts a new job next week. Its straight after work just a few beers with workmates.
Saturday the mighty whites are at home to Millwall but I can't go as I've a TT training session. A lot of tickets have been sold and it will be a big crowd and great atmosphere. Its not a bad one to miss cos Millwall Supporters have a big reputation for violence, their Mob the "Bushwackers" make Hitler Youth look like Liberals. Ok Leeds also have a bit of a reputation and I've a bad feeling about this fixture we'll probably end up getting docked some more points.
Sunday I've actually got a TT match its in the Yorkshire League I'm representing York against Halifax, it could be a tough game but thats how I like it.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Boredom & Motivation
At work we have about finished production and to be honest its getting really boring. You may think its great to go to work sit on your backside with very little to do is good but hell the day just takes forever.
Quite a lot of people have now gone so there is even less to talk to. We are in limbo at present not knowing whether we will be taken over as a production plant or we will be closed. At least once we know the answer to that question we can start preparing the plant and should be reasonably busy. Its going to be a long two weeks before we find out.
The trouble is when you have a lazy day its hard to motivate yourself to do anything when you get home.
I'm trying though today I started my regime of exercise by walking to and from work, its a thing I did last year and eventually it will help the weight loss I'm sure. I do want to get back on track I've sort of lost a lot of motivation with the weight loss & fitness levels of late but I now feel the time is right to start working at it again.
Back to work and I've decided I'm not yet ready to start applying for jobs, I've decided I'll just stay as long as I'm been paid then have a few months off probably do some more travelling cos a new job may not give me as much time off as I get now. I still need details of how much I'll actually get but I have a rough idea just need confirmation. If someone does takeover my options may be different but I'll try negotiate a job with more time off, I'm determined to live and see the parts of the world I want.
To be honest I feel like a change of direction on the job front, I've worked in industry too long and fancy doing something different just don't know what if that makes sense.
Did I mention I was out in York last Friday night at yet another leaving do for some of the process shift workers. It was a laugh but I didn't stay too late, got the last bus as I had to be up Saturday for a TT training day. Remind me not to get the bus again it takes forever driving through every village and stopping at every farmhouse, I thought my bladder was going to burst.
Last night I went out for a few frames of Pool with Lofty and following a few drinks he confirmed he would like to come with me on one of my US trips next year for my birthday. I asked if he had mentioned it to his wife but he suggested I mentioned it on my blog so she could find out here.
And its good to see one of my origional Blog friends Joel DcNats back in circulation this month I hope he keeps blogging. And as a 2nd bonus I see the lovely Redneckgirl as posted on her blog lets hope she is here to stay.
Finally a question - If there is something in life you feel is really what you want but looks totally impossible, is it worth the effort to try ?
I would appreciate your opinion although the question may not make sense.
Take Care Everyone.
Since writing this post I've just had a bit of a shock, the Yorkshire Table Tennis Association handbook came in this mornings post so I sat down to read it. Turned a page and read a trophy had been donated in memory of a old friend called George. This chap I've known for years as a Coach & Umpire he was a smashing chap one of lifes true characters always said what he thought.
Yes sure he was knocking on a bit (probably mid Eighties) but I didn't even know he had died, I'm gutted I never attended the funeral or even spoke to his widow. I don't even know when it happend but must have been early this year I think.
Quite a lot of people have now gone so there is even less to talk to. We are in limbo at present not knowing whether we will be taken over as a production plant or we will be closed. At least once we know the answer to that question we can start preparing the plant and should be reasonably busy. Its going to be a long two weeks before we find out.
The trouble is when you have a lazy day its hard to motivate yourself to do anything when you get home.
I'm trying though today I started my regime of exercise by walking to and from work, its a thing I did last year and eventually it will help the weight loss I'm sure. I do want to get back on track I've sort of lost a lot of motivation with the weight loss & fitness levels of late but I now feel the time is right to start working at it again.
Back to work and I've decided I'm not yet ready to start applying for jobs, I've decided I'll just stay as long as I'm been paid then have a few months off probably do some more travelling cos a new job may not give me as much time off as I get now. I still need details of how much I'll actually get but I have a rough idea just need confirmation. If someone does takeover my options may be different but I'll try negotiate a job with more time off, I'm determined to live and see the parts of the world I want.
To be honest I feel like a change of direction on the job front, I've worked in industry too long and fancy doing something different just don't know what if that makes sense.
Did I mention I was out in York last Friday night at yet another leaving do for some of the process shift workers. It was a laugh but I didn't stay too late, got the last bus as I had to be up Saturday for a TT training day. Remind me not to get the bus again it takes forever driving through every village and stopping at every farmhouse, I thought my bladder was going to burst.
Last night I went out for a few frames of Pool with Lofty and following a few drinks he confirmed he would like to come with me on one of my US trips next year for my birthday. I asked if he had mentioned it to his wife but he suggested I mentioned it on my blog so she could find out here.
And its good to see one of my origional Blog friends Joel DcNats back in circulation this month I hope he keeps blogging. And as a 2nd bonus I see the lovely Redneckgirl as posted on her blog lets hope she is here to stay.
Finally a question - If there is something in life you feel is really what you want but looks totally impossible, is it worth the effort to try ?
I would appreciate your opinion although the question may not make sense.
Take Care Everyone.
Since writing this post I've just had a bit of a shock, the Yorkshire Table Tennis Association handbook came in this mornings post so I sat down to read it. Turned a page and read a trophy had been donated in memory of a old friend called George. This chap I've known for years as a Coach & Umpire he was a smashing chap one of lifes true characters always said what he thought.
Yes sure he was knocking on a bit (probably mid Eighties) but I didn't even know he had died, I'm gutted I never attended the funeral or even spoke to his widow. I don't even know when it happend but must have been early this year I think.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
The Clock is ticking
Just to update everyone with my work situation, we have now put the last production run on which will probably all be finished by the middle of this month. Some production people will then leave while everyone else will work on decommisioning of the plant.
The target is to have everthing clean so virtually everyone will leave at the end of November.
However a very small skeleton crew of 6 to 8 people will remain to complete any other work and for site safety for a period following this date. As Site Electrical Manager I am likely to be in this group so I will be in work until I would think Feb/March next year. We will be there until the site is sold either as a working site or for salvage.
I am assured of my redundancy so my money for that is safe (I do get a very good deal due to my service) and if somebody does reopen the factory jobs may be on offer, that would be great for the area. Another benefit is for those of us involved in decommision we are on financial weekly bonus of £100 so that certainly boosts my money.
I've been working on this site since I left school and interestingly I started this year the 17th longest server. I'm now actually the 2nd longest server but the one bloke who is in front of me is a process worker so he will probably finish before me. I suppose it will be a achievment to make the No1 spot just wish it could have been in happier circumstances.
The target is to have everthing clean so virtually everyone will leave at the end of November.
However a very small skeleton crew of 6 to 8 people will remain to complete any other work and for site safety for a period following this date. As Site Electrical Manager I am likely to be in this group so I will be in work until I would think Feb/March next year. We will be there until the site is sold either as a working site or for salvage.
I am assured of my redundancy so my money for that is safe (I do get a very good deal due to my service) and if somebody does reopen the factory jobs may be on offer, that would be great for the area. Another benefit is for those of us involved in decommision we are on financial weekly bonus of £100 so that certainly boosts my money.
I've been working on this site since I left school and interestingly I started this year the 17th longest server. I'm now actually the 2nd longest server but the one bloke who is in front of me is a process worker so he will probably finish before me. I suppose it will be a achievment to make the No1 spot just wish it could have been in happier circumstances.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Is today the first day of the rest of my life
Today when I got to work I found out that I was going to be made redundant, my place of work is closing, it wasn't totally unexpected. I've actually worked at the same factory for 33 years I went there straight from school at 16 so it is a big part of me.
During the time I've worked at the plant I've moved from Apprentice Electrician through various promotions to "Site Electrical & Utilities Manager". I've also worked for six different companies that have owned the place.
Some people are leaving at the end of this week (I've got a leaving do to attend Friday), while others will go throughout October with a few staying to the end of November which is the planned date to have everything finished. In my job I'll probably be one of the last out the gate, hell someone has to flick the light switch.
With my service I'm luckier than most that I will get a very good redundancy payment so that is quite pleasing.
Another glimmer of light on the horizon is that somebody is trying to buy the site to make different products, I will know for sure this Friday I believe. If this happens they will want some of the workforce back but we'll have to wait and see what their contract offers.
Obviously I'm sad after spending so much of my life there but I'm also happy with the payment I'll recieve it will create opportunities to do new things in my life, possibly even more travelling.
I've a lot of thought process to go through before I decide what I want to do with the rest of my life, I've a few loose ideas but now I need a real plan.
Another thing I'm very upset about is that I've appeared to have upset and lost a very good blog friend, I think most of you will have worked out its Rachel and I'm gutted about it. I really hope she has a change of heart she is going through such a hard time in her life and I just want to be supportive.
During the time I've worked at the plant I've moved from Apprentice Electrician through various promotions to "Site Electrical & Utilities Manager". I've also worked for six different companies that have owned the place.
Some people are leaving at the end of this week (I've got a leaving do to attend Friday), while others will go throughout October with a few staying to the end of November which is the planned date to have everything finished. In my job I'll probably be one of the last out the gate, hell someone has to flick the light switch.
With my service I'm luckier than most that I will get a very good redundancy payment so that is quite pleasing.
Another glimmer of light on the horizon is that somebody is trying to buy the site to make different products, I will know for sure this Friday I believe. If this happens they will want some of the workforce back but we'll have to wait and see what their contract offers.
Obviously I'm sad after spending so much of my life there but I'm also happy with the payment I'll recieve it will create opportunities to do new things in my life, possibly even more travelling.
I've a lot of thought process to go through before I decide what I want to do with the rest of my life, I've a few loose ideas but now I need a real plan.
Another thing I'm very upset about is that I've appeared to have upset and lost a very good blog friend, I think most of you will have worked out its Rachel and I'm gutted about it. I really hope she has a change of heart she is going through such a hard time in her life and I just want to be supportive.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
My Life Changed Today
It looks like I'll have to think hard what I will do in my life, today at work we were called to a site meeting where it was announced we will be closing.
Although there is now a 30 day consultation process with the unions the plan is to cease production at the end of September. The site will need a small skeleton staff to stay on after that date to assist on decommisioning and making the site safe. Maybe I'll get a few months work on this maybe not we'll see. The bottom line is sometime after September I've to decide what I want to do with my life.
No need to sympathaise with me I won't be destroyed financially I'll definately get by fine but its the people with young families and large mortgages that I feel so sorry for, they can't afford this.
I should get a decent redundancy payment as I've been there a long time although it will pay me to invest a big part of this to boost my works pension.
Anyway when it happens I'm not necessary look for work straight away I'll consider a number of options :-
1. Its maybe a chance to change career I'm a bit bored with what I'm doing so this is possibility.
2. I may move to another country, probably not but its a option I'll consider.
3. I may technically retire, ok a bit early but I have a option of taking a significantly reduced pension at 50 (next March), I could cope with a life of leisure but I've a few sums to do.
4. I may just need to do part time work depending how my sums come out when I get all the info.
Looking on the positive :-
1. My Golf handicap should improve.
2. It may give me a chance to fulfill some ambitions including more travel, time off work will no longer a problem.
Anyway I've a lot to work out over the next few weeks but one thing for sure I plan to take a break to access my options.
Although there is now a 30 day consultation process with the unions the plan is to cease production at the end of September. The site will need a small skeleton staff to stay on after that date to assist on decommisioning and making the site safe. Maybe I'll get a few months work on this maybe not we'll see. The bottom line is sometime after September I've to decide what I want to do with my life.
No need to sympathaise with me I won't be destroyed financially I'll definately get by fine but its the people with young families and large mortgages that I feel so sorry for, they can't afford this.
I should get a decent redundancy payment as I've been there a long time although it will pay me to invest a big part of this to boost my works pension.
Anyway when it happens I'm not necessary look for work straight away I'll consider a number of options :-
1. Its maybe a chance to change career I'm a bit bored with what I'm doing so this is possibility.
2. I may move to another country, probably not but its a option I'll consider.
3. I may technically retire, ok a bit early but I have a option of taking a significantly reduced pension at 50 (next March), I could cope with a life of leisure but I've a few sums to do.
4. I may just need to do part time work depending how my sums come out when I get all the info.
Looking on the positive :-
1. My Golf handicap should improve.
2. It may give me a chance to fulfill some ambitions including more travel, time off work will no longer a problem.
Anyway I've a lot to work out over the next few weeks but one thing for sure I plan to take a break to access my options.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Last Night
Last night a few people from work went out for a Meal paid for by the company I work for. It was a goodbye gesture for two managers who are leaving this week due to redundancies.
The two managers were Sandy (Production Manager) and Andrew (Shipping), I reckon they both really enjoyed it.
Others that came along were Andrew (Plant Manager), Andrew (Safety Officer), Keith (Mechanical), Diane (HR), Tracy (Sales), Paul (Shipping), Dave (Sales) plus myself of course.
Taxi's were laid on as the Pub "Ryther Arms" we went to is about 8 or 9 mile away from town in a very small village.
I was in a Taxi with Sandy & Diane as we live close and we had a bit of a detour to pick up Andrew (Safety). Anyway we arrived first at about 7pm so ordered a few drinks and put it on the tab. The others arrived shortley after and we were given menu's to choose from.
Now let me tell you this place is famous for its Steaks and is very popular. We decided to go for starters can't tell you what everyone else went for but the choice was good. I decided on Potato Skins which were stuffed with Cheese and Baccon, they were delicious.
Main course for me it had to be steak given this places reputation although they were other choices. Now let me tell you there is a steak on the menu for everyone, Sirloin, T-Bone, Fillet, Rump plus various combinations with other meats and fish. The smallest Steak is a 6oz but I opted for the 14oz T-Bone, now this was big enough but was only about average for this place. Believe it or not they have various sizes up to 78oz, crikey that is some piece of meat, I thought about ordering just to see what it looked like.
The Steak came with side dishes of Roast and Boiled Potatoes, various veg and Onion rings. You coud have some delightfull sauces if required.
To be honest when I finished I was quite bloated but Beer and Red wine flowed all night until the Taxi's picked us up just before midnight.
We had a good laugh talking about the old days and things that have happend on site, a couple of our group took photo's so I'll maybe post a couple when I see them (following censorship of course).
I think there were a few sore heads at work this morning and I'm pleased it wasn't me footing the bill.
I've just found the Pubs website check out this link and the menu, some good Steaks here - Rythre Arms
I think the weight loss may have suffered a touch but I'm training tonight and tomorrow so hopfully I'll show a slight loss at my Friday weigh in.
Just for a bit of fun I've added a voting attachment on my side bar, obviously todays choice is based on Food so vote and we'll see what is the most popular.
The two managers were Sandy (Production Manager) and Andrew (Shipping), I reckon they both really enjoyed it.
Others that came along were Andrew (Plant Manager), Andrew (Safety Officer), Keith (Mechanical), Diane (HR), Tracy (Sales), Paul (Shipping), Dave (Sales) plus myself of course.
Taxi's were laid on as the Pub "Ryther Arms" we went to is about 8 or 9 mile away from town in a very small village.
I was in a Taxi with Sandy & Diane as we live close and we had a bit of a detour to pick up Andrew (Safety). Anyway we arrived first at about 7pm so ordered a few drinks and put it on the tab. The others arrived shortley after and we were given menu's to choose from.
Now let me tell you this place is famous for its Steaks and is very popular. We decided to go for starters can't tell you what everyone else went for but the choice was good. I decided on Potato Skins which were stuffed with Cheese and Baccon, they were delicious.
Main course for me it had to be steak given this places reputation although they were other choices. Now let me tell you there is a steak on the menu for everyone, Sirloin, T-Bone, Fillet, Rump plus various combinations with other meats and fish. The smallest Steak is a 6oz but I opted for the 14oz T-Bone, now this was big enough but was only about average for this place. Believe it or not they have various sizes up to 78oz, crikey that is some piece of meat, I thought about ordering just to see what it looked like.
The Steak came with side dishes of Roast and Boiled Potatoes, various veg and Onion rings. You coud have some delightfull sauces if required.
To be honest when I finished I was quite bloated but Beer and Red wine flowed all night until the Taxi's picked us up just before midnight.
We had a good laugh talking about the old days and things that have happend on site, a couple of our group took photo's so I'll maybe post a couple when I see them (following censorship of course).
I think there were a few sore heads at work this morning and I'm pleased it wasn't me footing the bill.
I've just found the Pubs website check out this link and the menu, some good Steaks here - Rythre Arms
I think the weight loss may have suffered a touch but I'm training tonight and tomorrow so hopfully I'll show a slight loss at my Friday weigh in.
Just for a bit of fun I've added a voting attachment on my side bar, obviously todays choice is based on Food so vote and we'll see what is the most popular.
Friday, June 01, 2007
The Last Supper
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Due to the redundancy's at work a number of people finished at the end of April and a lot more Yesterday (end May). Only a handfull of those leaving are now still now working and they will slowly filter away.
Last night a lot of people (over 30) from work went out for a goodbye drink to a local Pub. We basically stayed in the same Pub all night and chatted mainly about bygone times at work, it was a good night, we had a laugh but it was still slightly sad.
Today at work it really hit me how much the place has changed it was so quiet with hardly anyone about, I walked by the Car Park which used to be full and there was only ten cars in it.
Work ain't going to be the same again.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Not Happy
Today I'm not in a happy mood in fact I am totally p****d off with what happend at work. I feel like somebody who won the lottery and lost the ticket.
As most of my regular readers know we are closing a production line at work with around 100 people becoming redundant.
When the list of jobs to be retained was issued a few weeks ago my job was on it. However our management followed this up with a pool of potential candidates for each job. They then proceeded asking each person in the pool if they were interested in staying or alternatevely they could request consideration for redundancy. To be honest I thought it was like asking me to apply for my own job but although I thought that wrong I wasn't too bothered.
Anyway for my job the Pool consisted of myself and my current assistant "S". He's good at his job and I'm sure he is well capable of doing the job, he also had options of going on shifts but that is a loss of money for him.
I've been there a long time and the redundancy package was very attractive so I made the decision to ask to leave. When I say the package was attractive I am talking in the region of two years salary a large chunk of it tax free. I actually fancied trying something new in my life and this was going to provide the opportunity."S" hasn't been there long so and with a young family really needed to stay in work so put his name up for both jobs.
I assumed I would be allowed to leave, maybe get a few months work helping with the de-commision of the old plant and pass on training for "S".
Today I was called into the Plant Managers office to be told they are not accepting my request for redundancy. I am angry, why on earth did they have the stupid Pool in the first place ? Why wasn't I just told my job isn't going to be one of the redundancy's ?
As most of my regular readers know we are closing a production line at work with around 100 people becoming redundant.
When the list of jobs to be retained was issued a few weeks ago my job was on it. However our management followed this up with a pool of potential candidates for each job. They then proceeded asking each person in the pool if they were interested in staying or alternatevely they could request consideration for redundancy. To be honest I thought it was like asking me to apply for my own job but although I thought that wrong I wasn't too bothered.
Anyway for my job the Pool consisted of myself and my current assistant "S". He's good at his job and I'm sure he is well capable of doing the job, he also had options of going on shifts but that is a loss of money for him.
I've been there a long time and the redundancy package was very attractive so I made the decision to ask to leave. When I say the package was attractive I am talking in the region of two years salary a large chunk of it tax free. I actually fancied trying something new in my life and this was going to provide the opportunity."S" hasn't been there long so and with a young family really needed to stay in work so put his name up for both jobs.
I assumed I would be allowed to leave, maybe get a few months work helping with the de-commision of the old plant and pass on training for "S".
Today I was called into the Plant Managers office to be told they are not accepting my request for redundancy. I am angry, why on earth did they have the stupid Pool in the first place ? Why wasn't I just told my job isn't going to be one of the redundancy's ?
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Should I stay or should I go ?
Ok yes I know this is a former UK No1 song by "The Clash" but its about where I am at present.
In the morning we have a mass meeting at work to tell us what the plans are with the company I work for. We know a large section is closing and there will be a significant number of redundancies. A lot of these may be volunteers but there will be some forced.
I don't know what will happen with me but should soon find out, maybe I will be forced to stay or go I just don't know.
In a ideal world I'll be given the option and I am unsure what I'll choose, my gut feeling at present is to maybe take the redundancy as I have a lot of Service and should get a decent pay out. However I'm too young to retire and may not be able to find an equivallent job.
My biggest fear about staying is if the rest of the site closes in the not so distant future the redundancy package may be different and I'd lose out big time. Its a big decision so watch this space.
In the morning we have a mass meeting at work to tell us what the plans are with the company I work for. We know a large section is closing and there will be a significant number of redundancies. A lot of these may be volunteers but there will be some forced.
I don't know what will happen with me but should soon find out, maybe I will be forced to stay or go I just don't know.
In a ideal world I'll be given the option and I am unsure what I'll choose, my gut feeling at present is to maybe take the redundancy as I have a lot of Service and should get a decent pay out. However I'm too young to retire and may not be able to find an equivallent job.
My biggest fear about staying is if the rest of the site closes in the not so distant future the redundancy package may be different and I'd lose out big time. Its a big decision so watch this space.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Work
Since early December we have been waiting for an announcement from our upper management with regards to the future of our factory.
Today we got that announcement and around 100 people out of a workforce of 140 are going to be made redundant.
We currently manufacture two products but are going to cease production of one of these due to the fact it can be produced cheaper in China. What pisses me off is a lot of our production expenses are due to working within emmission laws, health & safety rules, etc. In China they break every rule in the book still pollute the planet yet major western companies have moved their supplier from us to them. I'll add I will no longer buy anything from Coca Cola.
Also in our country the cost of energy is riddiculous where as the Chinese get government grants. Thank you Mr Blair I reckon there will be no industry in the UK within 10 years.
Other costs that have screwed us is the cost of raw materials due to EU sanctions, what a f*****g joke.
At this moment in time we don't know for sure who is going and I may be safe, who knows. To be honest I'm not really bothered either way, i'll have a look at the new job descriptions.
I'll add I've worked at the same factory since I left school, 32 years so maybe its time for change.
Today we got that announcement and around 100 people out of a workforce of 140 are going to be made redundant.
We currently manufacture two products but are going to cease production of one of these due to the fact it can be produced cheaper in China. What pisses me off is a lot of our production expenses are due to working within emmission laws, health & safety rules, etc. In China they break every rule in the book still pollute the planet yet major western companies have moved their supplier from us to them. I'll add I will no longer buy anything from Coca Cola.
Also in our country the cost of energy is riddiculous where as the Chinese get government grants. Thank you Mr Blair I reckon there will be no industry in the UK within 10 years.
Other costs that have screwed us is the cost of raw materials due to EU sanctions, what a f*****g joke.
At this moment in time we don't know for sure who is going and I may be safe, who knows. To be honest I'm not really bothered either way, i'll have a look at the new job descriptions.
I'll add I've worked at the same factory since I left school, 32 years so maybe its time for change.
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