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

Redundancy occurs when the employer needs to reduce the workforce. This may be because of a closure, a relocation or a reorganisation. The result is that the employer needs to dismiss one or more employees because there are (or are expected to be) fewer jobs, or the need for a particular job no longer exists.

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.

There is a helpful and free leaflet from the TUC Facing Redundancy. It is available on the web or from the know your rights line 0870 600 4882 (national rate, 8am-10pm).