Does any notice need to be given?

[buffymad]

Asking this on behalf of a friend (honestly!).

He's started a new job and absolutely hates it for various different reasons. He's only been there for one week. As yet, he hasn't been given a contract to sign nor has he been given any verbal information, like how many days holiday he's entitled to and how much notice he has to give. If he decides he can't stand it, does he have to give any notice and if he does, how much? Like I say, nothing has been said to him and no contract has been given to him yet so I wasn't sure if this made any difference or not. Thanks!

[delsgirl]

If i was your friend and i really hated it after one week and no sign of it geting any better, then i would not go back, put it down to experience and look for something else quickly. If cant afford to leave look anyway and move on. but there is no need to stay if really unhappy, and there is no need to declare it if only there a week on your cv etc. I wouldnt tell anyone just pretend it didnt happen at all and move on to something more suitable.

[lizzyny]

He doesn't need to give any notice as he's not even got a contract. There may be some trouble getting his money for the work he has done if he just doesn't go back

[unacahuna]

According to employment law , if you've worked for less than a month you're not required to give any notice.(It also works the other way-company doesn't have to give you notice.)
After the 1st month the minimum notice is 1 week, unless you've signed a contract that differs.
So, your friend can leave today with no worries.
Having been an employer myself, I'd suggest that they go to their manager or HR and just say that it's not working out for them. Then at least the employer knows and can replace them. I once had somebody just not turn up and I spent a lot of time trying to contact them and was quite worried in case something had happened to them.
And, they can walk away on good terms with a clear conscience.
Hope that helps
PS. I'd leave it off the CV too

[buildersmate]

Una's advice on minimum notice periods is correct.

[Mamjet]

buildersmate point is correct