Skip to main content

What support can employees expect during redundancy?

What support can employees expect during redundancy?

Find Help

More Items From Ergsy search


What Support Can Employees Expect During Redundancy?

Redundancy is a challenging experience for employees, as it involves a complex set of emotions and practical concerns. In the UK, there are several forms of support that employees can expect to ease the transition during redundancy. Understanding the support measures available can help employees navigate this challenging period more effectively.

Firstly, it's important to note that redundancy is a form of dismissal from your job, which occurs when employers need to reduce their workforce for reasons not related to individual performance. In the UK, employees have a number of rights and entitlements under employment law to ensure that the redundancy process is conducted fairly.

A primary form of support comes through statutory redundancy pay. If an employee has been working continuously for their employer for two or more years, they are entitled to statutory redundancy pay. The amount is calculated based on the employee's age, length of service, and weekly pay, up to a statutory maximum.

Beyond financial compensation, employees should expect consultation and clear communication from their employers. By law, employers must engage in a meaningful consultation process if they are planning to make 20 or more employees redundant at one establishment within a 90-day period. This involves informing employees about the redundancy situation and considering any alternatives to dismissals.

Employees should also receive notice pay or pay in lieu of notice, depending on the terms of their employment contract. Notice periods provide employees with time to adjust and seek new employment opportunities. The minimum notice period varies based on the length of service, with a minimum of one week’s notice for employments ranging between one month and two years, and increasing accordingly.

Outplacement services are another form of support that employers may offer. These services can help employees find new jobs by providing career coaching, CV writing workshops, and interview preparation. This assistance can be invaluable in helping individuals transition smoothly to new employment.

Additionally, employers may offer support through emotional and psychological services, such as access to counseling or employee assistance programs. This aspect is particularly important as redundancy can have significant impacts on mental wellbeing. Many organizations recognize the importance of supporting their employees emotionally during such transitions.

Finally, employees are encouraged to contact their local Jobcentre Plus for support. The Jobcentre can provide advice on claiming benefits, accessing training opportunities, and finding new job openings.

In summary, while redundancy can be a difficult and uncertain time, UK employees have access to various forms of support, both mandated by law and offered by employers, to help them navigate the process with greater resilience and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is redundancy support?

Redundancy support refers to the assistance and resources provided to employees who are being laid off due to job eliminations and organizational restructuring. This can include financial compensation, career counseling, and emotional support.

Will I receive a redundancy payment?

Eligible employees are typically entitled to a statutory redundancy payment, which is calculated based on their age, pay, and length of service. Your employer should inform you if you qualify for this payment.

Am I entitled to a notice period?

Yes, employees being made redundant are generally entitled to a notice period, which varies depending on the length of their employment. Employers may choose to provide pay in lieu of notice instead.

Can I expect any career counseling services?

Many employers offer career counseling services as part of their redundancy support package, which can include help with resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.

What emotional support is available during redundancy?

Employers may provide access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) that offer counseling services to help employees cope with the emotional impact of redundancy.

Are there any training opportunities provided?

Some employers offer training and development opportunities to help redundant employees improve their skills and increase their employability.

Will I be given time off for job searching?

Employees who are being made redundant are usually granted reasonable time off to attend job interviews or training sessions to improve their chances of finding new employment.

What should I do if I disagree with being made redundant?

If you believe your redundancy is unfair, you can appeal against it with your employer or seek guidance from a labor organization or legal advisor.

How can I find out if I'm eligible for redundancy support?

Eligibility for redundancy support is typically outlined in your employment contract and your company's redundancy policy. Your HR department can provide detailed information specific to your situation.

What is outplacement support?

Outplacement support includes services provided by employers to help redundant employees transition to new jobs, such as career coaching, resume assistance, and networking opportunities.

How is my redundancy payment calculated?

Redundancy payments are generally calculated based on your age, length of service, and salary. You can usually find specific details in your employment contract or company policy.

Can I apply for unemployment benefits after redundancy?

You may be eligible to apply for unemployment benefits, depending on your country's specific rules and your personal circumstances. It's advisable to check with your local labor department.

What role does the HR department play during redundancy?

The HR department is responsible for managing the redundancy process, communicating with affected employees, and providing necessary support and resources during this transition.

Is it possible to avoid redundancy?

Sometimes, employers may consider alternatives to redundancy, such as reduced hours, voluntary redundancy, or redeployment within the organization. It's worth discussing these options with your employer.

What legal rights do I have during redundancy?

Employees have certain legal rights during redundancy, including the right to receive proper notice, redundancy pay, and protection from unfair dismissal as defined by employment law in your region.

Can I receive a reference from my employer after redundancy?

Yes, you can request a reference from your employer, which can be useful for future job applications. Employers typically understand the need to support employees in their job search post-redundancy.

What steps should I take immediately after learning about redundancy?

Upon learning about redundancy, you should clarify your entitlement to payments and support, update your resume, begin networking, and consider seeking career counseling or legal advice if necessary.

What is a redundancy consultation process?

The redundancy consultation process is a period during which the employer discusses the reasons for redundancy with employees, explores alternatives, and considers feedback from staff before finalizing decisions.

Can I access financial planning services during redundancy?

Some employers provide access to financial planning services to help employees manage their finances and plan for their future after redundancy, including advice from financial advisors.

How can I manage the stress associated with redundancy?

Managing stress during redundancy involves staying positive, seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors, staying active, and focusing on future job opportunities and personal growth.

Useful Links

Important Information On Using This Service


This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals. If you have any medical concerns or need urgent help, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services immediately.

  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search