Redundancy Training: Employer Options

Easing the Process of Redundancy

Redundancy happens when an employer no longer requires a role or roles to be carried out, either when there is a reduction in the number of people required to do a job, or when a business is closing or relocating.

Managers or supervisors can often find the process of releasing staff very difficult, but the decision is a business one, and personal feelings must be kept out of it as much as possible.

It is important to know that redundancy is about the needs of the organisation and the change in the need for the role. It is not about the performance of an individual or any other failings of that individual.

But great care must be taken to ensure the process is fair to both the Employer and the Employee.

Protecting the Employer

If you are aware that a redundancy situation may occur, plan thoroughly and timetable the actions you need to take.

Redundancy exercises take time to carry out properly and can cover many weeks. It is essential that action is clear, focused and fair in order to minimise disruption to all concerned.

There are legal requirements regarding the selection process, notice periods and pay, and these must be considered alongside any rights given in contracts of employment.  Professional advice will prevent the risk of expensive and time consuming claims.

The way the redundancy programme is handled (whether management is seen to be supportive or uncaring) will have a significant effect on the smoothness of the transition.

Helping the Employee

It is also important to help the staff selected for redundancy.

The simplest form is financial compensation, but the real concern of anyone who loses their job will be how quickly they will find another one.

Progressive companies will therefore consult staff, assisting them in developing the means to obtain re-employment.

This process will often include support counseling, but the most practical and motivational method is to provide training in the skills necessary to find alternative employment.

Our Back On Track scheme has been specifically designed to help people to acquire or improve skills in the areas that are most relevant to their situation.