u/butterchknboo

Hello, we’re new to Bracknell, moved less than a month ago! We have a toddler and currently we have childcare up until the end of November. I’ve spoken to at least 15 childminders who do not have any availability till January/ September 2027. I have contacted the Bracknell council family information service, no response yet. I work 4 days a week, 9 to 5, so I’d definitely need to find someone good soon. Any advice would be appreciated.

I’m an overseas-qualified dentist and have been doing NHS and private work in England since late 2024. When I joined my practice, I signed a fixed-term contract that runs until 2029 and does not contain an exit clause.

I started as a PLVE dentist and completed my PLVE around 7 months after joining the practice. Shortly afterwards, I went on maternity leave for 7 months and then returned to work. My circumstances have now changed, and I need to relocate to a different city with my husband and our 1 year old child.

My employer is saying that the only way to end the fixed-term contract is by mutual agreement. He claims that I must either find a like-for-like replacement myself or pay £6,000 to a recruitment agency to source one.

I explained that I do not believe I am legally obligated to find a replacement or pay this fee. In response, he stated that UK contract law is clear on the matter and suggested that I seek advice from a solicitor.

I had already spoken to a solicitor about a month ago. While it was only general guidance, I was advised that I cannot be forced to continue working if I choose to leave.

I have since submitted 3 months’ notice. Has anyone been in a similar situation, particularly as a dentist on a fixed-term contract? I’d appreciate any experiences, advice, or recommendations for employment/contract solicitors, as I have not formally hired one yet.