WORKPLACE ANSWER
What should I do if I am being made redundant?
Finding out that your role may be made redundant can feel unsettling and raise a lot of questions. You might be worried about your income, your future and what will happen next at work. This page explains how redundancy usually works, what you can expect during the process and the practical steps you can take to stay informed and prepared.
Quick Answer
In most cases, redundancy happens when an employer no longer needs a particular role, or needs fewer employees to do certain work. It is usually about the job, not about you as a person. Employers will often consult with affected employees before making final decisions, to explain the reasons and explore possible alternatives.
If you are told that your role is at risk of redundancy, it is important to understand the process, ask questions and make informed decisions. Taking part in consultation, keeping good records and checking your notice, redundancy pay and holiday entitlement can help you feel more in control.
What This Usually Means
Redundancy is when an employer decides they no longer need a role, or need fewer people to do certain work. Common reasons include business closures, restructures, cost-saving measures, changes in technology or a drop in demand for particular services. The focus is usually on the role rather than the individual, although the process can still feel very personal.
Why employers consult
Employers will often carry out a consultation process before confirming redundancies. This is usually to explain the reasons for the proposed changes, discuss how people have been selected, explore ways to reduce or avoid redundancies and consider any alternatives, such as different roles or changes to hours. Every redundancy process is different, and the level of detail can vary between organisations.
Understanding what your employer has said about the reasons for redundancy, how roles are affected and what options are being considered can help you decide what questions to ask and what steps to take next.
Things To Think About
When you are at risk of redundancy, it can help to think about both the process and your wider situation. For example:
- • the information your employer has given you about why redundancies are being proposed
• the dates and purpose of any consultation meetings
• how your notice period, redundancy pay and holiday pay will be worked out
• whether there are any suitable alternative roles you could apply for
• how redundancy might affect your income, benefits and pension
• what support you have at home and at work
• when you might want to start looking for other jobs or training
Thinking through these points can help you prepare questions, plan your next steps and look after your wellbeing during a difficult time.
What Usually Happens Next
Although every organisation is different, redundancy processes often follow similar stages. Employers will usually:
• begin consultation and explain why redundancies are being proposed
• discuss who is affected and how any selection has been carried out
• explore alternatives, such as different roles, reduced hours or other changes
• confirm any final redundancy decisions in writing
• explain your notice arrangements and whether you will work your notice or be paid in lieu
• calculate redundancy pay (where applicable), final salary and outstanding holiday pay
• arrange the return of company property and explain any next steps
If you are unsure what stage you are at, or what will happen next, you can ask your employer to explain the process and timescales in clear terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "at risk of redundancy" mean?
If you are told you are "at risk of redundancy", it usually means your role is being considered for redundancy but no final decision has been made yet. This is often the start of a consultation process where you can ask questions and put forward your views.
Can my employer offer me another job instead of redundancy?
Yes, some employers look for suitable alternative roles to reduce or avoid redundancies. If another role is offered, you can ask for clear information about the duties, pay, hours and location so you can decide whether it is right for you.
Will I receive redundancy pay and what happens to my unused holiday?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to redundancy pay. Your employer should explain how any redundancy payment is worked out. You should also normally receive pay for any unused holiday you are entitled to, or be given the chance to take it during your notice period. If anything is unclear, you can ask for a breakdown in writing.
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Important: WorkAnswers provides general workplace information and guidance. It is not a substitute for legal advice about your specific situation.
WorkAnswers AI tools can help you understand what is happening and prepare for key conversations. You can use them to:
• understand redundancy letters and consultation documents
• explain redundancy terms and procedures in plain English
• prepare questions for consultation meetings with your employer
• think through possible next steps before you make decisions
• organise key information so you can get the most from any advice or support
Need more help with this?
If you are unsure about the redundancy process or what it means for you, you do not have to work it out alone. There are different ways to get support and talk things through.
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Visit the WorkAnswers community to see how others have managed redundancy, share your experiences and learn from practical tips.
Talk It Through
If you would like independent guidance before making decisions, you can book a one-to-one WorkAnswers consultation. An adviser can help you understand the process, explore your options and plan your next steps.
Talk It Through
Find options if you’d like to talk through your situation in more detail.