Italian civil servants (the vast majority of whom are employed under contract) are entitled to severance pay when they leave their jobs. This is calculated on the basis of 6.91% of annual paid wages. The National Social Security Institute (INPS), which also pays out severance payments, has set up a simulator that enables each employee - after logging in - to find out the updated amount.

Eurofound, the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, has just published a study on the changing face of trade unionism in the local and regional public sector (including social services). The representativeness achieved by these organisations justifies their right to be consulted, bolsters their role and effective participation in European sectoral social dialogue and their ability to negotiate agreements.

Many people in the workforce suffer from disabilities that their colleagues or superiors are unable to see. The federal government has launched a campaign to encourage self-declaration, particularly at the time of recruitment. This is, of course, not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended as a means of making the necessary job accommodations and ensuring employment equity.