The Lean Resignation Checklist (UK)
Short. Simple. Resignation-proof.
Download my printable checklist and handle resignations calmly, quickly, and legally (without turning payroll into a crime scene).
Stop the panic. Follow the plan.
Resignations are normal. The chaos afterwards is optional.
This checklist walks you through the essentials: confirm the last day, check the contract basics, sort handover, lock down kit and access, and keep the team comms neutral. Plus you get two copy/paste emails that save you loads of time.
What you get (free)
• 10-step Lean Resignation Checklist (UK) you can follow in order
• “Only if needed” risk prompts (garden leave, PILON, sensitive data, senior exits)
• Copy/paste resignation acknowledgement email (tiny but solid)
• Copy/paste confirmation email (still short, still clear)
• Holiday + final pay sanity-check prompts so payroll is not chaos
• After-they-go retention check (quick stay chats, not a 40-question survey)
Who it’s for
• UK small businesses and line managers
• Owners who want a calm process with clear wording
• Anyone who’s ever received a resignation and thought: “Cool. What now?”
About Kate
I’m Kate Underwood, host of Buzzing About HR. I help UK employers turn awkward people moments into practical steps, without legal waffle and without losing an afternoon.
Light legal note (UK-only)
Information, not legal advice. UK-focused and written for straightforward resignations. If there’s a dispute, protected disclosures, medical issues, or anything spicy, get proper advice.

FAQs
Is this UK-specific?
Yes. It’s built around common UK contract basics like notice, holiday treatment, PILON and garden leave.
Does it tell me the exact legal answer for holiday?
It prompts you to check what your contract allows (take during notice, pay in lieu, and what happens if overtaken). It keeps you on the right track without drowning you in rules.
Will this help if someone resigns in a huff?
Yep. The same steps apply. You just stay calm, confirm basics in writing, and protect the business.
Does it cover garden leave and PILON?
Yes, but only in the “use if needed” section so you don’t overcomplicate normal exits.
Is it really free?
Yes. Pop your email in and I’ll send it over.
Can I print it?
Absolutely. It’s designed to be A4-friendly and easy to share internally.