Redundancy helpline sees huge surge in enquiries

Recrion has seen a significant increase in calls relating to redundancy issues in the last 8 weeks. This was closely followed by employment terms and conditions; absence and sickness; disciplinary procedures; and recruitment and selection processes.

Redundancy callers' queries ranged from fair processes of dismissal in a redundancy situation, to supporting managers to break the news to their staff.

Katherine Wiid, Director of Recrion said: "Redundancy has topped the number of calls and requests for information in the last three months. Unfair dismissal is by far the most common type of claim to employment tribunals, so it's not surprising that businesses are seeking advice".

"Unfortunately, some employers think that redundancy is a safe route for dismissing employees with whom they have problems. This is not the case, as redundancy is a dismissal on specific grounds and relates to the job and not the employee."

"Redundancy is a sensitive matter that can cause unrest and uncertainty among remaining employees. Employers should be as open and honest as they can, and  consider some employee relations exercises to boost morale".

Recrion recommends that employers unsure of how to handle the redundancy process fairly, or who are concerned about the disruption redundancies may cause, to seek further advice from experienced professionals.  For more information visit www.recrion.co.uk or call 01780 484910.