A resignation letter formally ends your employment. You must give the contractual or statutory notice period — whichever is longer. Keep the letter professional — it becomes part of your employment record and may be seen by future employers.

• Give your contractual notice or statutory minimum (1 week per year of service, minimum 1 week)
• A resignation is a verbal or written offer — employer can accept immediately
• Constructive dismissal: if forced to resign due to employer's breach, this may be constructive dismissal
• Garden leave: employer may ask you not to work during notice period while remaining on payroll
• Retract a resignation: you can ask to retract but employer does not have to accept

Legal reference: Employment Rights Act 1996 s.86 (statutory notice); contract of employment (contractual notice)