New Job During Consultation Period

Hello and thanks in advance for any help.

I've worked for the same company for 5 1/2 years, there are approx 60 employees. Things haven't looked very good recently so I've been looking for alternative employment. On Monday, we will be told that we're entering a 30 day consultation period, and will be laid off with immediate effect.
In this case, when is the earliest I can start a new job?

Thank you for your message.

Can you clarify the following for me please so I can construct an answer for you.

Is your Employer proposing to make over 20 redundancies?
Has the Company gone into administration

Thanks

Hi,
There will be approx 50 redundancies, and we're currently in a period of consultation, with the definite outcome of liquidation.
As the consultation is until February and I am on 5 weeks notice, does this mean that if I start a new job before the middle of March I will lose notice pay?
Thanks.

Thank you for your reply. I am sorry to hear about your situation but it is good news that you have a new job waiting for you.

With regards to your question about leaving before your notice period ends.

During the period of notice that you are entitled to between being informed of the redundancy and the date your employment ends, you may give your employer notice that you wish to leave before the end of your notice period.

I would advise that you discuss this with your employer during the consultation period. Some companies establish a 'cut off point' whereby if you leave before that cut off date, then it is deemed that you have left employment and you have no entitlement. After that cut off date, they many then agree that you will receive redundancy pay.

Companies can be flexible in redundancy situations (particularly companies who are going into administration), as they want their employees to secure positions. It may be that your employer is willing to assign your work to someone else during the close down period.

You may need to complete Form RP6 and give it to your employer. As outlined, your employer has discretion as to whether to grant your request or not. If you leave during the notice period without your employer's agreement please be aware that it may affect your entitlement to a redundancy payment.

I hope this has helped answer your question. Please return to the forum if you have any further questions, or to update your post. Your questions and answers help others in a similar situation.