Redundancy

Redundancy arises where an employee is dismissed because the employer no longer needs the full quota of staff. To qualify for a redundancy payment you must usually have worked continuously for your employer for two years or more - but the period before turning 18 doesn't count.

In theory, the employer should try to find you an alternative position. And if you turn down the offer of a reasonable alternative job you may lose your right to a redundancy payment.

But you don't have to accept a job at a lower grade or with radical changes in the hours of work. And if you do take a different job you are entitled to a four week trial period; if you leave or are dismissed during that period you are still entitled to your redundancy payment.