consultation and payments - help please

Hi there.

I have had a meeting this week where I was notified my role was one of two at risk for redundancy as part of a reorganisation. Two new roles would be created.
The consultation process seems to being done by the book, though I have some concerns about the selection process. I have asked how my role was selected and what alternative options were considered and have received only vague answers.

My questions are as follows:
I have a second meeting next week to discuss the matter further. My understanding is that I can make alternate proposals at this meeting. Can I also challenge their proposed decision?

I'm concerned that they will try to avoid redundancy payment. 1/ I've read somewhere that reorganisation can be used as an excuse to avoid redundancy payments 2/ I've been told I can apply for one of the new roles (however I do not have the appropriate skills). I've read that not accepting the new role can nullify any redundancy payment (don't think they'll 'offer' the role - I'll have to 'apply'). Am I allowed to ask for (and receive) at this stage details on how redundancy will be calculated?

Any advice appreciated - thank you

Thank you for your question.

If the job that you were employed to do no longer exists then this is a redundancy situation.

It sounds as though they have created a new role which they have invited you to apply for as alternative employment. If you are unsuccessful in your application then they would either need to offer you other alternative employment, if there is anything available, or make you redundant. If you were successful, your employer is obliged by statutory law to give you a 4 week trial period and they can retrain you.

If you have 2 years employment then you should at least be paid statutory redundancy payment or contractual redundancy payment if this is in your terms and conditions of employment.

You should be made aware of how you were selected for redundancy. You should ask for this information at your next meeting and in writing.

You should also be made aware during the consultation meeting of how your redundancy pay will be calculated.