Redundancy Advice

What Is Redundancy?

Redundancy occurs when an employer needs to reduce the number of employees due to reasons such as:

• A decrease in business activity
• Changes in the business structure or technology
• The closing of a business or a specific department

While redundancy is a legitimate reason for dismissal, it must be handled fairly and according to the law. Employees who are made redundant are entitled to certain rights and benefits, depending on their length of service, age, and salary.

Your Rights During Redundancy

If you are facing redundancy, it’s important to be aware of your legal rights. These include:

• Notice Period: Your employer is required to give you notice of your redundancy. The notice period depends on your length of service and could range from one week to several months.
• Redundancy Pay: Employees who have been employed for at least two years are entitled to statutory redundancy pay, which is based on age, length of service, and weekly earnings (up to a maximum limit).
• Alternative Employment: Employers are required to consider offering you alternative employment if suitable positions are available within the company.
• Consultation: Your employer must consult with you about the redundancy, explaining the reasons and the selection process, and allow you the opportunity to discuss potential alternatives.

Redundancy Process

The redundancy process should be fair, transparent, and follow the legal requirements set out by UK employment law. Your employer should:

1. Inform Employees: If there are multiple redundancies, employees must be informed and consulted in a group setting.
2. Selection Criteria: Redundancy selection should be based on fair and objective criteria, such as skills, experience, and performance, rather than discriminatory factors.
3. Appeal Process: If you believe that the redundancy process was unfair or discriminatory, you have the right to challenge it, either internally or through a tribunal claim.

Common Redundancy Issues

Several issues can arise during the redundancy process that may require legal advice:

• Unfair Selection: If you feel you were selected for redundancy unfairly, based on discriminatory grounds or inaccurate performance assessments, you may have grounds for a claim.
• Failure to Consult: If your employer did not consult with you properly about the redundancy, this could be a breach of your rights.
• Incorrect Redundancy Pay: If you believe that your redundancy pay has been calculated incorrectly or that you have not been paid what you’re entitled to, you may need legal assistance to resolve the issue.
• Failure to Offer Alternative Employment: If there are alternative roles available within the company and you were not offered one, this could be a breach of your rights.

How HPA Solicitors Ltd Can Help

At HPA Solicitors Ltd, we provide clear and practical redundancy advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Our team of experienced employment law solicitors will guide you through the redundancy process, ensuring that you are treated fairly and that you receive the compensation or remedy you are entitled to. We offer a no-win, no-fee service, which means you can seek legal advice without the risk of significant legal costs.

Next Steps

If you are facing redundancy or feel that your redundancy has not been handled correctly, don’t hesitate to contact HPA Solicitors Ltd for a free consultation. Our expert solicitors will review your case, help you understand your options, and represent you in pursuing a fair settlement or claim if necessary. Let us help you get the support and compensation you deserve during this difficult time.