People who are made redundant feel a range of emotions at this time and may find it hard to talk about their feelings.  Some of these feelings might be: 

·         shock

·         denial

·         anger

·         acceptance

All of these emotions may be experienced at different times and are perfectly natural. There are no easy answers.  Everyone deals with their feelings in their own time and in their own way.  Some people choose to have counseling and others will talk with partners or other colleagues. 

It is best if you are able to channel your feelings and emotions into moving forward rather than looking back in regret.  Try and stay positive and motivated.

Remember: It is the position which has been made redundant - not the person

There are several reasons why you may be made redundant: 

·         new technology or a new system has made your job unnecessary

·         the job you were taken on for no longer exists

·         the need to cut costs means staff numbers must be reduced

·         the business is closing down or moving

If you're going to be made redundant, there are certain steps employers would be expected to follow.  You may also be entitled to a redundancy payment. 

Procedure

In a redundancy situation, the following things should happen:

·         Your employer should select you fairly

·         You should be consulted about the redundancy

·         You should get any redundancy pay you are due, and be given the correct amount of notice

·         Your employer should consider any alternatives to redundancy

Some questions you may have: 

Am I entitled to redundancy pay?

If you have been working with a contract of employment and have been employed for 2 years or more you are entitled to redundancy pay of which the minimum is one week's pay for each full year worked up to a maximum of £310 per week.

Do I have to pay tax on my redundancy pay?

No, up to £30,000 this is tax free. 

Do I need to make a claim for payment?

Not unless your employer fails to pay you or disputes your entitlement.

Will I get any notice?

You are entitled to the notice period as specified in your contract of employment, although your employer may be prepared to let you go earlier. 

Our nextstep adviser can help you come to terms with your redundancy and help you with:

·         building your CV

·         interview preparation

·         job search

·         exploring your options

·         confidence building

·         skills and interests diagnosis

You may also find the following web site links helpful:

www.adviceguide.org.uk
www.worksmart.org.uk
www.redundancyhelp.co.uk
www.dti.gov.uk
www.direct.gov.uk
www.businesslink.gov.uk

For more information download our Redundancy Fact Sheet