Advice on Redundancy

There are several reasons why someone may find themselves made redundant. Redundancy can be due to a fall in profits, an increase in competition, takeovers, mergers, technological advances and in some cases poor management. It is important to view being made redundant as an opportunity for change, rather than as a stumbling block - so look to the future and remain positive.

It can be a confusing time when you lose your job, so here are some important do's and don'ts:

Do:

Keep calm
Concentrate on the positive changes you can now make
Focus on moving forwards
Take stock of your situation and look at your options
Seek professional advice
Be open with your friends and family

Don't:

Take it personally – your position has been made redundant, not you
Get too down about yourself, as a lot of people face redundancy at some stage
Panic and make rash decisions
Feel too negatively about the company that made you redundant

Redundancy is a time of change. Most people find change unsettling, but change can also be for the better.

As well as adjusting to the fact you’ve been made redundant, there are also some practical aspects you will need to think about. Before you leave your employer:
Pick up your P45
Get written details of your redundancy payment and package
Make a note of the contact details for your: line manager, trade union representative, human resources department and pension fund trustees
(If your employer offered any benefits such as health insurance, take contact details of these too.)

Furthermore, your employer may provide free careers guidance to help you decide on your next move. Some employers offer money for training. Make the most of whatever they have to offer you.
Redundancy issues can be complex, so you should seek help from a professional adviser who can explain your rights and consider your financial options.

You can seek redundancy advice from:

Your trade union
Professional bodies and associations
Your local Citizens' Advice Bureau
Independent financial advisers
Employment law experts
And remember – although this is a worrying time financially; do not make any rushed decisions. Weigh up all your options carefully and consider things for the long term.

If it is a while before you manage to get a job, you can use this time constructively. You could undertake volunteer work, to obtain vital experience and some new skills. Alternatively you could take a course.

If you're going for a complete career change you'll probably have to develop new skills to make the change. But even if you're seeking the same type of work as before, updating or broadening your skills is still a good idea.


Also, if you wish to seek counselling during this difficult time you can find a counsellor by searching the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy's database. You could also check with your employer to see if they are part of the Employee Assistance Programme which provides free practical and emotional help to workers and their families.