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Your responsibilities
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) strongly encourages you to act responsibly by keeping your employer informed about your commitments as a Reservist.
To identify yourself as a Reservist
Reservists have always been strongly encouraged to inform their employer that they are a member of the Volunteer Reserve Forces (VRF). This includes mentioning your Reservist status at job interviews or telling your employer about your intentions before you join the VRF.Now, when you join the VRF, or seek to re-engage, you must give permission for the MOD to write to your employer directly. This system, called 'Employer Notification', is intended to ensure that your employer is aware that they have an employee in the VRF and that they know about the associated benefits, rights and obligations (see Employer Notification).
To find out about your employer's policies
You are responsible for finding out about any policies your employer has relating to the VRF, in case they affect your availability for training and other commitments.
To ask your employer for training leave
It is up to you to make your employer aware of your basic training commitments and annual training period. If you want time off for training, make sure you arrange it with your employer as far in advance as possible.
Many employers give extra time off for training or Annual Camp - but it's entirely up to them whether they do so or not.
To inform your employer if you are mobilised
If you receive a Call-out Notice for mobilisation, you should inform your employer as soon as practically possible.
As part of the mobilisation process, your employer should receive a letter, which sets out the date and possible duration of mobilisation. It also explains their statutory rights and obligations - including the entitlement to apply for an exemption, deferral or revocation from mobilisation under certain circumstances.
However, whether or not your employer receives such a letter, you are still responsible for making sure they are aware of the fact that you have been called out.
To provide accurate information
You are responsible for providing your employer with correct and timely information about your training commitments and any other issues that may affect your civilian work.
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