Uncertainty over job security is upsetting to workers and can be potentially disastrous for the organisation.  Employers should ensure that they have clear strategies about rights and issues surrounding such things as redundancy, lay offs and transfers of business, and that workers are aware of their rights in those situations.

• Employees who qualify have a right to statutory redundancy pay;

• Selection for redundancy should be based on fair, objective criteria, and applied equally to all employees;

• Employers should consult with employees, either through employee representatives where applicable, or individually;

• FAILURE to undertake an appropriate selection and consultation procedure can lead to claims for unfair dismissal, plus a “protective award” in addition.