Retrenched...can I start a new job

[gcs001]

Hoping there are some individuals clued up with SA labour law and more specifically retrenchment law.
Company going through a large scale retrenchment exercise.
As part of the process affected staff were offered voluntary severance packages.
I applied for this VSP and it was approved.
The company is willing to let me leave without working my notice period but will pay me for it.

In this situation am I allowed to start working for a new company during my notice period?
Do I have to inform the old company about this?
Do I still get paid my full notice period from the old company?

TIA.

 

[Hemi300c]

As far as I am concerned and imo all contracts and even restraints are nul enviod if a vsp or retrenchment is applied.

 

[infscrtyrisk]

As far as I am concerned and imo all contracts and even restraints are nul enviod if a vsp or retrenchment is applied.

AFAIAK you are correct. In SA law, the company doing the retrenchment should be more than grateful if an employee obtains gainful employment, no matter what the type.

To gcs001: I am not sure if you have to inform them of your new vocation, take a good look at the terms and conditions of your package.

Good on you gcs001, hoping that you make your mark with your new employer!

 

[Kerrits]

I was retrenched in 2013, and I started working at a new company during my notice period. Our company closed down, so we all had very honest discussions about our job hunting progress etc. I don't think you have to tell anyone anything though.
I did get paid my full notice period.

It is however important to sign that retrenchment document with the terms before you do anything. It should state that you will not work your notice period.
You can still get fired until that document is signed.

 

[gcs001]

Thanks All!
I expect to be signing my final release letter next week which will probably have the relevant info in.
As it stands right now I'll play it carefully about committing to a start date with my new employer.