[gpderetta]

Normally the only difference is contractual: during probation usually the notice period is much shorter (the legal minimum). That's about it.

[ddek]

Available sick leave is usually shorter, too. Normally 5 days, converted to 10-15 after probation. Usually annual leave is fully made available from the start, though.

[gpderetta]

Hum, never had contractual sick leave in the uk. Normally whe you are sick, you just call in sick.

[alias_neo]

This. 2 weeks (or whatever the legal minimum is) during probation, and 6 months at senior/management level in my org.