I have been told I will be redundant. What are my rights?

Redundancy occurs when the employer no longer needs the same amount of workforce hours devoted to the same activity at the same place. This may be because of a closure, a relocation or a reorganisation. The result is that the employer may opt to dismiss one or more employees.

Those being made redundant have legal rights:

• to be consulted in advance, in order to discuss alternatives (ie before there is a fixed plan to make redundancies, to be invited to discuss the situation and explore alternatives)
• to be given reasons for the redundancy
• to be selected according to an objectively fair process, if more than one person is affected by the change and to know the basis of the selection system
• to try out any alternative offer of suitable work for 4 weeks
• to take reasonable time off, with pay, to look for alternative work or training.

In addition employees with more than 2 years' service are entitled to a redundancy payment.

Dealing with the Downturn TUC/Citizens Advice leaflet in Adobe pdf format.

Facing Redundancy Know Your Rights leaflet from the TUC in Adobe pdf format.