How to Support Employees During Redundancy

If there are redundancies coming up in your organization, here are our tips on how to support employees during redundancy.

Want to support them during this challenging time? Check out our redundancy coaching options.

Checklist for Employers: How to Support Employees During Redundancy

Clear Communication:

• Deliver the news with clarity, compassion, and transparency
• Explain the reasons for redundancy, ensuring understanding of the business context
• Provide all relevant timelines, including notice periods and final working days

Offer Emotional Support:

• Provide access to counselling, Employee Assistance Programs, or a Sanctus Boost coaching package
• Schedule one-on-one meetings to address questions and emotions
• Maintain open communication throughout the process to avoid isolation. (Err to the side of over-communicating.)

Practical Guidance:

• Help with CV writing, job search techniques, and interview preparation
• Offer networking opportunities or recommend recruitment agencies

Provide Financial Clarity:

• Clearly outline redundancy pay, benefits entitlements, and pension information
• Ensure employees receive final pay checks, holiday pay, and any other owed compensation promptly

Legal and Procedural Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with local employment laws (e.g., consultation periods, notice periods)
• Provide written documentation and redundancy letters

Aftercare Support:

• Offer references and endorsements where possible
• Offer support for those left behind. Running a group session like Sanctus Connect & Reflect can be a great way for your team to process the impact, reconnect and rebuild

Checklist for Employees: What to Ask and Do If You’re Being Made Redundant

If you’re an employee being made redundant, here are some things to ask and do.

Understand Your Rights:

• Ask for a breakdown of your redundancy pay and any outstanding entitlements
• Confirm your notice period and any compensation for untaken holidays
• Inquire about whether you can receive pay in lieu of notice

Seek Clarification:

• Ask for details on how the redundancy selection was made
• Clarify your eligibility for any internal job opportunities or redeployment
• Confirm if outplacement services, counselling, coaching or financial advice are provided

Prepare for Next Steps:

• Request support for CV writing, job search strategies, and interview practice
• Ask about getting a letter of reference or a statement of employment history

Plan Financially:

• Find out how redundancy will affect your pension and other benefits
• Discuss options for any bonuses, stock options, or employee share schemes

Consider Well-Being Support:

• Inquire about ongoing mental health or career transition support. (Like the Sanctus Boost coaching packages)
• Reach out to support groups or counselling services offered by the employer

Review Legal Compliance:

• Confirm your redundancy process aligns with local employment laws
• Consult with a legal or HR professional if anything seems unclear or unfair

For more information on supporting employees through redundancy, check out our whitepaper that suggests a kinder way to deal with redundancies.