Each Friday and Monday we publish the problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Guardian Money supplement so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy's own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I have worked in a number of IT/analysis jobs for the past 15 years. For the past six years I have also been trying to conceive a baby for six-and-a-half years, and this has led to four unsuccessful IVF treatments.
Last year my husband and I were offered voluntary redundancy and with the package were able to relocate from the north to the south as well as afford the latest, fourth IVF treatment. I took VR in April, my husband found a new job in July, we moved in August and treatment started in October. Sadly, it was unsuccessful.
It is unlikely we will try again so I am now considering both contract and permanent work, but am very worried about explaining the gap in my CV. One part of me is content to tell the truth, the other thinks it might be off-putting and I should say I've merely been relocating and settling in. I do voluntary unpaid website work as a hobby and have been helping out with a charity website since September (though this has been on hold due to treatment).
I have no concerns about proving my worth as an employee – I'm a hard working person with a successful track record. I'm just concerned about explaining the gap, particularly since the reasons and emotions are still quite raw. Should I mention it?
• For Jeremy's and readers' advice on a work issue, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@guardian.co.uk. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or reply personally.
