Job at risk of redundancy letter template

Redundancies are common during turbulent times. They serve as a method of keeping a business open and running whilst undergoing financial struggles.

No matter how necessary they may be, redundancies are never pleasant. Even the possibility of redundancies can make employees nervous and harm the morale of a workplace. Whether it’s a small team or an entire company, it’s easy for employees to fear for their jobs.

Explaining the redundancy process to employees can help, as does preparing an ‘at risk of redundancy letter’.

If an employee that hadn’t received a letter explaining why they were considered for redundancy or the stages they could take to prevent it, is made redundant, they could take you to an employment tribunal. If they argue unfair dismissal, it can come with some pretty hefty fines.

What is an at risk of redundancy letter?

A job at risk of redundancy letter is provided to employees before a redundancy letter. These letters are written letters of intent that a role is being considered for redundancy.

It should signal the start of consultation meetings. These meetings are with both the employee in question and those making the decision.

A job at risk of redundancy letter should feature the following:

• The date you send the letter

• The name of the employee

• The reason for redundancies in the business

• The amount of redundancies the business needs to make

• The roles and teams affected by redundancies

• Details of the consultation process

• Details of who the company will consult with

• How long the process and consultation meetings will take

• Expected timeline of the process

• Information of who to contact about further information

• Role-specific explanation: outline the reason why the individual receiving the letter is being considered for redundancy.

• Other roles: details of whether there are other roles available for the employee, if they need to apply for a role, and if so, how.

• The date the employee can expect to receive a final answer.

Procedure to follow when sending an at risk of redundancy letter

The previous at risk of redundancy letter example should provide a suitable outline however, it is always worth making specific notes that relate to an employee’s team or department. This reassures them that there are options and alternatives to redundancy that are worth discussing.

Ensure these letters are delivered directly and discretely, and that affected employees know they can discuss the letter with you as soon as they receive it.

Depending on the options available at your company, you should also make it clear that the employee can seek support with assistance. For example, if your company has a union that represents employees, a representative from the union is allowed to attend the relevant meetings in support of the employee.

Get help with at risk of redundancy letters today with BrightHR

Once your company begins considering redundancies, a job at risk of redundancy letter is the first method to inform your employees.

A poorly written letter can result in confusion, panic, and tension with employees whilst a letter template can make the process smoother for both employees and employers. Use our 'Job at risk of redundancy letter' template to help guide you.

BrightHR can help. Whether it’s with BrightHR’s redundancy navigator or our 24/7 employment relations advice line, book a product demo or get in touch with us on 1 300 029 198 today.