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More seeking advice on employment issues - 06-01-2009 |
New figures released by national charity Citizens Advice reveal that more people are seeking advice about redundancy, applying for jobs and claiming Job Seekers Allowance, the figures reflect the continuing effects of the economic downturn on the job market.
The figures show that since April 2008, Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales have seen daily enquiries relating to redundancy increase by 125% across the service (from under 200 per working day in April to 425 per day in November). Daily enquiries to bureaux from people looking for guidance on Job Seekers Allowance have increased by 66% (from under 280 in April to over 450 in November).
Over the last financial year (April 2007 to March 2008) the number of enquiries from people seeking advice on applying for jobs rose by 76%.
According to recent research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) and KPMG a quarter of UK employers have drawn up plans to make redundancies in 2009.
Citizens Advice Chief Executive, David Harker said:
"Rarely a day goes by without reports of yet another company announcing job cuts. In this current climate it’s imperative to know your rights and be able to access free advice if you have been made redundant or fear you may be.”
Citizens Advice is offering the following Top Tips for people at risk of redundancy:
If you have a contract, check it. You should be entitled to adequate notice of dismissal or pay in lieu of notice on top of your redundancy pay.
An employer must be fair and objective when deciding who should be made redundant. If you feel you have been unfairly selected for redundancy you can make a claim to an Employment Tribunal within 3 months.
If your employer offers you alternative employment it should be "suitable" i.e. similar pay, status, hours, location etc.
If the terms and conditions vary in the alternative job you can work for a 4 week trial period. If you find it unsuitable you may leave and you could still retain your right to a redundancy payment.
Once you have received your redundancy pay, be very careful about what you spend the money on until you have taken advice on how it may affect your benefits and tax position. You may be treated as still having the money even if you have spent it.
If you haven't got another job to go to, you might be entitled to help from the government or local authority in the form of benefits. Depending on your circumstances these could include Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, free school meals for your children and help with NHS costs.
David Harker added:
"Redundancy is not the same as being dismissed. You can only be made redundant if your job disappears or your employer reduces its workforce.
When your employer chooses who to make redundant, it is illegal to use selection criteria which discriminate against anyone because of their age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief.
If you are struggling to pay bills as a result of redundancy it’s vitally important to speak to your lenders straight away. If you would like free confidential advice on redundancy rights and entitlements get in touch with your local CAB. They can also give you a benefits check and provide advice on how to manage any debts you may have.”
| Citizens Advice Tips for People facing Redundancy
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