UK / The myths about redundancy rights

Employees have a number of rights when employers try to wield the axe, but many are not entirely clear about what they are entitled to when threatened with redundancy. As a result, myths abound. Here are some common misconceptions and the truth behind them.

Myth I will get a reference when I leave.

Reality There is no obligation on an employer to provide a reference for a worker, let alone a favourable one. Employers can give a negative reference if they believe it to be fair and accurate. Most references are now factual only (dates of employment, job title etc), but there is still no obligation to provide this.

Myth The notice period in my contract of employment is the most my employer has to pay me.

Reality No it isn’t. You are entitled to a statutory minimum of one week’s notice for every year worked, up to a maximum of 12 weeks, or your contractual notice, whichever is the longer. If, for example, you have worked for eight years your notice would be the statutory minimum of eight weeks, regardless of whether your contract provides a lesser period.

Myth I am entitled to statutory redundancy pay if I am made redundant.

Reality You are only entitled to statutory redundancy pay once you have worked for your employer for two years. If your employer has their own enhanced redundancy policy, however, you should be treated in accordance with that.

Chosen excerpts by Job Market Monitor

via Redundancy rights in the UK: busting the myths | Money | guardian.co.uk.