What redundancy means
Redundancy is a form of dismissal where your employer needs fewer people to do a particular kind of work, or work in a particular place, or the business is closing. It's the role that goes, not the person.
Fair selection
If some people in a group are being made redundant, your employer must use fair, objective selection criteria, such as skills or performance records. They must not select you because of a protected characteristic, being pregnant or on family leave, or being part of a union.
Consultation
Your employer should consult you before making a decision, explain why your role is at risk, and listen to your suggestions. If 20 or more people are proposed for redundancy at one place within 90 days, collective consultation rules apply, with a minimum of 30 days for 20 to 99 people and 45 days for 100 or more. From 6 April 2026, the maximum protective award for failing to consult collectively doubled to 180 days' pay.
Suitable alternative work
Your employer should consider whether there's another suitable job for you. If you take a different job, you can have a four week trial period without losing your right to redundancy pay. If you're pregnant, on maternity, adoption or shared parental leave, or recently returned, you have priority for suitable alternative jobs.
Redundancy pay
If you've worked for your employer for two years or more, you're entitled to statutory redundancy pay: half a week's pay for each full year you were under 22, one week's pay for each full year you were 22 to 40, and one and a half weeks' pay for each full year you were 41 or older. It's capped at 20 years of service, and weekly pay is capped at an amount that changes each April. Your contract may give you more.
Notice and time off
You're entitled to your notice period, or pay in lieu if your contract allows. If you've worked there for two years or more, you're entitled to reasonable paid time off to look for work or arrange training.
Where this applies. Northern Ireland has different redundancy rules. Check nidirect.
Common questions
How long do I need to work somewhere to get redundancy pay?
Two years or more for statutory redundancy pay. Your contract may be more generous.
Can I be made redundant while on maternity leave?
You can, but you must be offered any suitable alternative job first, and you have that priority from pregnancy until 18 months after the birth.
Is voluntary redundancy different?
You volunteer, but the same rules on redundancy pay apply. Check what package your employer is offering.
References: GOV.UK, Redundancy: your rights; Acas, Redundancy; GOV.UK, Calculate your statutory redundancy pay.