Gardening Leave

**Gardening leave** is a period of time during which an employee is paid their full salary and benefits but is not required to work. This leave is typically granted to employees who are being laid off or made redundant, and it gives them time to find a new job or to transition to retirement.

There are a few different reasons why an employer might offer gardening leave. First, it can help to avoid the appearance of impropriety. If an employee is fired, they may be tempted to take revenge by revealing confidential information or damaging the company's reputation. By giving the employee a period of time to leave on their own terms, the employer can help to mitigate this risk.

Second, gardening leave can help to ensure that the employee does not disrupt the workplace. If an employee is fired, they may be angry and upset, and they may be tempted to sabotage the company's operations. By giving the employee a period of time to leave, the employer can help to ensure that the employee does not do anything to harm the company.

Third, gardening leave can give the employee time to find a new job. If an employee is fired, they may need some time to update their resume, network with potential employers, and interview for new jobs. By giving the employee a period of time to leave, the employer can help to ensure that the employee does not have to go through this process while they are also looking for a new place to live.

Gardening leave is typically paid at the employee's full salary and benefits. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the employee is being laid off due to a reduction in force, the employer may be able to reduce the employee's salary or benefits during the gardening leave period.

The length of gardening leave can vary depending on the circumstances. In some cases, it may be just a few weeks. In other cases, it may be several months. The employer and employee can typically agree on the length of the gardening leave period.

Gardening leave can be a valuable benefit for employees who are being laid off or made redundant. It can give them time to find a new job, to transition to retirement, or to simply relax and enjoy their free time.