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Regardless of why you've decided to quit your job, you need to know how to write a strong resignation letter to help you foster long-term relationships with your company or former colleagues. Similar to a good cover letter, a nice resignation letter briefly states your reasons for leaving, your gratitude for the given opportunities, and your intention to assist with the transition process.
Whether you are seeking a career change or looking for a new job, this article walks you through the steps to write a professional letter, ensuring a smooth transition during your departure. Our tips and UK-specific notice letter email templates below enable you to navigate this simple process effectively, leaving a positive impression as you progress in your career.
In this article, we cover:
A formal resignation letter template for the UK
Job-specific examples of British resignation letters
Key tips for writing your resignation letter
A sample resignation letter with immediate effect and with notice period.
What is a resignation letter?
A letter of resignation is an essential step in leaving a job, as it formally expresses your intention to end employment with your current employer. While it may feel ceremonial, a notice period letter serves as an official record of your departure and leaves a lasting impression of your professionalism.
What to include in a resignation letter?
Before handing in your resignation or sending it via email, it's worth taking a moment to consider the tone and message you wish to get across. Your written notice of resignation should strike a balance between professionalism and gratitude, expressing your reasons for leaving while maintaining a positive and respectful tone.
Simple resignation letter structure
Address your manager by name – personalises the letter and sets a respectful, professional tone from the outset.
Include the current date – this creates a formal record and confirms exactly when your notice period begins.
Include your contact details – makes it easy for your employer to reach you during the handover period.
State clearly that you are resigning – removes any ambiguity and confirms this is a formal notice of resignation.
Specify your last working day – calculated in line with your contractual or statutory notice period, whichever is longer.
Thank your employer – a brief, genuine note of gratitude leaves a positive final impression and protects your professional relationships.
Sign off with your full name – keeps the letter formal and ensures there is no confusion about who submitted it.
Standard resignation letter template for the UK
Download this free resignation letter template for the UK in PDF.
Pro Tip
While being honest and expressing yourself freely is fundamental, it's generally best to save any negative or critical feedback for an exit interview. Doing so ensures a positive reference and maintains professional relationships.
How to write a letter of resignation
Keep a simple format for your resignation letter and avoid unnecessary details. Though it's not mandatory to state your reason for leaving, providing at least two weeks' notice is standard practice in the UK, but ensure that you double-check your employment contract for more details and legal obligations.
1. Include the date and notice period
Clearly stating your resignation date and notice period is essential. If it's a two-week notice, explicitly mention your intention to resign, the effective date two weeks from today, and reference your contractual notice period. This ensures transparent communication about your last working day and facilitates a smooth handover process for everyone involved.
Refer to our care assistant CV and care assistant cover letter examples to help you create professional documents for your next application.
Care assistant resignation letter example
Dear [Manager's name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as Care Assistant at NHS. My last working day will be 31/02/2025, providing the standard 2 weeks notice.
2. Show gratitude for the opportunity
Be sincere and thank your employer for the time and opportunities given. Ideally, give an example of a positive experience or project you collaborated on to make it more personal. Highlighting these positive aspects can help leave a long-lasting impression and maintain a positive relationship with your employer after you leave.
Admin resignation letter example
I am immensely grateful for the opportunities for learning and development that Uber has provided me during my time. It has been a pleasure to work with such a talented team and contribute to impactful data-driven decisions.
Explore our admin CV and admin cover letter example for valuable guidance on creating career documents before or after you have resigned.
3. Assist with the transition period
Express your willingness to assist in the transition process by offering to train your replacement or document processes. This gesture demonstrates professionalism and commitment to ensure your departure does not disrupt the company's workflow.
Customer service resignation letter example
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am available to assist in training my replacement as a Customer Service Assistant during this period, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the role.
See our customer service CV and customer service cover letter examples to help you find a new job in this field, with compelling career documents after you resign.
How to resign via email
Resigning via email requires a clear, professional, and respectful approach. Your message should briefly state your intention to resign, include your final working day, and express appreciation for the opportunities you’ve had. Even though it’s concise, maintaining a positive tone and offering support during the transition helps ensure you leave on good terms.
Is it OK to resign by email?
Resigning by email is acceptable in the UK, particularly if you work remotely, in a hybrid role, or have a genuinely difficult relationship with your manager. There is no legal requirement to resign in person. That said, if you work on-site and have a reasonable relationship with your manager, a face-to-face conversation followed by a written email or letter is the more professional approach.
The most important thing is that your resignation is documented in writing. An email serves as a formal record, confirms your notice period, and protects both you and your employer if any dispute arises later.
When resigning by email is appropriate:
You work fully remotely and have no regular in-person contact.
Your manager is based in a different location or time zone.
You have already spoken to your manager verbally and want to follow up in writing.
Your contract specifies written notice without specifying the format.
Resignation email template for the UK
Subject line: Resignation—[Your Full Name]—[Job Title]
Dear [Manager's name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last working day will be [date], in line with the [X weeks/months] notice period set out in my contract.
I want to thank you and the team for the support and opportunities I have received during my time here. I am committed to making this transition as smooth as possible and am happy to assist with handover arrangements.
Please let me know if there is anything specific you would like me to prioritise before my departure.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone number]
[Email address]
Job-specific resignation letter examples
NHS resignation letter example
Download this UK NHS resignation letter sample in PDF.
Resignation letter example for a teacher
Download this resignation letter sample in PDF
Resignation letter example for early retirement
Download this free resignation letter example for early retirement in PDF.
Resignation letter example after maternity leave
Download this free resignation letter example after maternity leave in PDF.
Two-week notice resignation letter example
Download this free two-week notice resignation letter example for the UK in PDF.
Resignation letter example with immediate effect
Download this free resignation letter sample for the UK with immediate effect in PDF.
Resignation letter templates
Choose a professional work notice template and customise it with your own personal details and information.
Short resignation letter sample
Dear Finlay Metcalfe,
I’m writing to inform you of my resignation from Nurse position at NHS England. In accordance with the period of notice agreed within my contract, my last day will be 31/05/2025.
I would like to thank you and the team for all the opportunities within the employment period. I have greatly enjoyed working with all of you. However, it’s time to move on due to my career goals.
Sincerely,
Sam Nelson
Simple resignation letter sample
Dear Dominic Edwards,
Please accept this message as notification that I am leaving my Waiter/Waitress position with Willow Lane Cafe & Bistro effective 1/03/2025. I appreciate the opportunities I have been given at your company and your professional guidance and support. I wish you all the best.
If I can be of assistance during this transition, please let me know.
Best regards,
Billy Vaughan
Professional resignation letter sample
Dear Natasha Hudson,
I am writing to formally resign from my role as a Primary School Teacher at Kingsley Park Academy. My last working day will be March 1st, 01/03/2025, per the notice period outlined in my contract.
I want to express my gratitude for the experiences and growth I've gained during my time at Willowbrook Community School. It has been a pleasure working with you and the team. However, I believe it's the right moment to seek new challenges aligned with my career aspirations.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition of my responsibilities. Please let me know how I can assist during this period, whether training my replacement or documenting any essential processes or projects. I want to ensure that the team and the company can continue without interruption.
Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to completing my remaining tasks and ensuring an easy transition.
Best regards,
Katie Gibbs
Simple resignation letter for personal reasons
Dear Lee Hughes,
I am writing to formally resign from my position as Marketing Manager at Revive, due to personal reasons. In line with my notice period, my final working day will be 01/05/2026.
I would like to thank you for the support and opportunities I have received during my time with the company. I am committed to ensuring a smooth handover before my departure.
Yours sincerely,
Thomas Foster
Resignation letter for a toxic workplace
Leaving a difficult work environment is one of the most emotionally charged resignation scenarios—but your letter does not need to reflect that. Regardless of what has happened, keeping your resignation letter neutral, brief, and professional protects your reputation and preserves your right to a fair reference.
You do not need to explain the full situation in your letter. Save any detailed concerns for a formal grievance process or an exit interview if you choose to have one. If you believe your employer's behaviour has left you with no reasonable choice but to resign, this may constitute constructive dismissal—a legal concept explained in the FAQ below.
The sample below strikes the right balance: firm, professional, and free of accusation.
Resignation letter for a toxic workplace sample
Dear [Manager's name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last working day will be [date], in line with my contractual notice period.
This has not been an easy decision, but after careful consideration, I have concluded that it is the right one for my professional and personal wellbeing.
I remain committed to completing my responsibilities during my notice period and will do what I can to support a smooth handover.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Pro tip
f you are resigning due to a serious workplace issue—such as harassment, discrimination, or a breach of your employment contract, consider speaking to Acas before you submit your resignation. They offer free, confidential advice and can help you understand your rights.
Resignation letter essentials
Keep it professional: Ensure your resignation letter is concise, respectful, and leaves a positive final impression.
Show appreciation: Thank your team and employer for the time spent together and the specific opportunities you received.
Leave on a positive note: Briefly mention what you enjoyed, such as the team environment, company culture, or key projects.
Connect with coworkers: Take time to strengthen relationships before leaving and stay in touch for future networking (e.g., via LinkedIn).
Assist with the handover: Offer support by suggesting a timeline for wrapping up tasks and ensuring a smooth transition.
Stay optimistic: Approach your departure with confidence and see it as a positive step toward your next career chapter.
Do
Address your manager by name – it signals respect and makes the letter feel considered rather than generic.
Focus on the positives – your letter will likely be kept on file; make sure it reflects well on you.
Express gratitude for the opportunity – even a brief thank you preserves goodwill and supports a strong reference.
Assist in the transition process – offering to help with handover shows professionalism and reduces the impact of your departure.
Keep it brief and concise – a resignation letter is not the place for lengthy explanations; one page is more than enough.
Don't
Strain relationships with complaints – any grievances are better raised through a formal process, not your resignation letter.
Let emotion overpower reason – write the letter when you are calm; what you put in writing is permanent.
Dwell on negative reasons for leaving – it adds nothing useful and risks damaging the professional relationships you have built.
Provide excessive detail – your employer does not need a full account of your decision; keep it factual and forward-looking.
Deviate from your agreed notice period – leaving early without agreement could be a breach of contract with financial consequences.
Next steps?
If you’re looking for a new job, explore one of our CV templates to help you get started. Connect with our CV Writing Service to receive professional career advice and help you fix all the inconsistencies. Lastly, complement your CV with a cover letter to ensure your application is complete and to help you stand out from others. Follow our practical tips when it comes to sending your CV via email, and learn more about job hopping.
FAQs
Why do you need a resignation letter?
A resignation letter is a formal document that acts as proof of your intention to resign and the notice period you agreed to serve. Additionally, it is a professional and respectful way to document your departure, ensuring that it is handled with grace. See the three common reasons for writing a written notice of resignation below:
Record-keeping (paper trail)
Customary to do so
Avoid awkwardness.
See our related blog articles on how to write a good CV and how to start a cover letter article to learn more.
Is a two-week notice required in the UK?
The required notice period depends on how long you have worked for a company. If the employee has been with the employer for longer than a month but less than two years, they must give at least one week's notice. However, if the employee has been employed continuously for two years or more, they must give at least two weeks' notice.
For each additional year of service, the employee must provide an extra week's notice, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. For example, someone who has worked for four years would have a minimum statutory notice period of four weeks.
What is the best format for a resignation letter?
Adhere to professional standards and follow specific guidelines your organisation sets. A clear and concise format ensures you get your message across more. Include the current date, your manager's name, salutation, the body, and a polite sign-off. Lastly, remember to state your intention to leave and provide two weeks' notice.
Does the resignation letter need a signature?
No, signing a resignation letter is optional in the UK. While a letter of resignation suffices, ensure that you provide your contact information and specify your notice period. In case your employer asks you to sign a document for them, carefully review its contents and weigh the pros and cons, as signing can have implications.
If you believe you have no choice but to resign due to your employer's severe breach of your contract, consider seeking legal advice from the Acas helpline.
Lastly, when your resignation is approved, your employer may provide you with a resignation acceptance letter confirming your final day of work and other essential details.
To whom should a resignation letter be addressed?
Your resignation letter needs to be addressed to your direct manager or supervisor. You may also write a letter for a more senior manager or someone else from human resources, but that could delay the process. Refer to the employee handbook for more information.
Do I legally have to write a resignation letter?
Writing a formal written notice of resignation is not legally required in the UK, but it is considered professional and polite practice. We suggest you provide a written notice period of your intention to resign to maintain a positive attitude and help you save your connection for the long term. Please note you can inform your manager verbally or submit a written letter. Double-check your employment contract for any notice period requirements.
Can I change my mind after resigning?
It's a great question, and in many cases, yes, you absolutely can! Your ability to withdraw a resignation often depends on two key factors: timing and your employer's specific policies.
Here's how to approach it:
Act quickly: If you've had a change of heart shortly after resigning, don't delay. Reach out to your employer as soon as possible to discuss the situation.
Explain your reasons: Clearly and professionally communicate why you'd like to withdraw your resignation.
Consider their response: If your employer hasn't yet taken steps, like hiring a replacement or processing your departure, they may be open to letting you stay.
Remember, every situation is unique, but communicating openly significantly increases your chances of a positive outcome.
What is a mutual resignation letter?
A mutual agreement resignation letter is a formal document where both the employer and employee agree on the terms of an employee’s resignation. It is often used to maintain positive relations and clarify important details, such as the agreed upon notice period, end date, and any final benefits. This type of letter helps ensure both parties have a clear understanding of the resignation process and next steps.
Mutual agreement resignation letter sample
I am writing to formally confirm our mutual agreement regarding my resignation from [Company Name], effective [last working day]. This decision has been reached amicably, and I want to express my gratitude for the support and opportunities I have experienced during my time with the company.
As agreed, my notice period will commence immediately, and I will ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities. Please let me know if there are any additional steps or documentation required to finalise the process.
