Redundancy and alternative position

I have just been informed that I have been selected for redundancy out of a pool of two people, myself being one of them. I am in the process of appealing against this decision. I have worked for the Company for 11 years.

An appeal date has yet to be set but just yesterday my employer has e-mailed me to say that there may be a suitable alternative job at another office. This other position is one of an office junior/receptionist and I am currently employed as a senior Secretary. The points I wish to raise are:-

1. Should my employer have also offered this job to my colleague who is also in the pool which he didn't. It would make more sense for her to take the position as she actually lives in the town where the position is. It would mean a lot of travelling for me.

2. Am I obliged to investigate this position and if I do will it prejudice my appeal in any way?

This whole situation has been handled appallingly and I just want to make sure of my rights.

Many thanks.

Anyone able to help? Thanks.

Hi sorry for the delay. I will put you at the top of my list to answer today.

Hi

During your consultation period, your employer has a duty to attempt to offer you suitable alternative employment that is available with the establishment . The offer of alternative employment should be made before your contract expires.

If your colleague is in the selection pool, then your employer should also be considering alternative employment for them. If this job is suitable for them, they should be offered the opportunity to apply for the position or any other vacancies that are available.

If you don't think think the position is suitable for you, you should discuss this with your employer. A drop in status or a perceived drop in status can constitute as a reasonable reason for rejecting the offer without losing your right to redundancy pay.

If you accept the offer, you have the right to a 4 week trial period in the job. You don't have an obligation to investigate the position by working a trial period though. Your employer should give you enough detail about the role which may allow you to make the decision e.g. the position is a drop in status.

I hope this has helped. Please let us know how things develop.

Thank you for your reply which was most helpful.