Frequently Asked Questions
Rights & Advice
Q. I have heard rumours at work that the company I work for is going to make some staff redundant, is there any support available for the workers who are potentially at risk?
A. Employees have the right to be collectively consulted, either directly or via representatives, which applies when an employer proposes to make 20 or more employees redundant over 90 days or less. An employer should consult regularly with their staff to keep them informed of redundancies within their workplace. If you think you have not been well informed, ACAS can offer help and guidance on the procedure and your rights as an individual. Visit their website for more information or speak to an adviser at ACAS on 08457 47 47 47 or find your local Citizens Advice Bureau.
Q. I feel my employer has selected me unfairly during the restructuring at work, is there someone I can speak to for advice?
A. If you think you have been selected unfairly you can appeal against their decision and have the right to an employment tribunal. The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) can offer conciliation and mediation between employees and the employer when someone has a complaint about their employment rights. They can also help if you think your job has simply been renamed and someone else employed in that position. For more information visit the ACAS website or contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau.
Finances
Q. How will I afford my rent/mortgage if I lose my job?
A. You may be able to get help with your mortgage interest payments or be eligible for housing benefit, council tax benefit and/or local housing allowance. The amount of benefit you get depends on the level of your capital and income, together with your individual circumstances. To find out if you are eligible visit the Homes and Communities section of Direct Gov’s website.
Q. How can I pay my bills whilst I am out of work?
A. If you have no income due to being out of work you may be able to apply for Job Seekers Allowance or Income Support. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus to see if you are eligible. For advice on debt, arrears or payment difficulties visit the Money, Tax and Benefits section of Direct Gov’s website.
Training Opportunities
Q. How will my employer be able to afford to put me on training while our company is making cutbacks?
A. Businesses wishing to train their staff have access to a wide range of funding available from the Government to ensure that people have the necessary skills for businesses to grow. Train to Gain is the national service for employers to use to upskill their workforce. To find out more visit their website.
You may also be able to access help yourself from the Government, in the form of an Adult Learning Grant or an Education Maintenance Allowance. Your local nextsteps centre can advise you on funding available for skills development. Call 0845 052 1040 to speak to an advisor or visit their website.
Q. How can I train whilst working full-time?
A. There are many different opportunities to study whilst working full-time. You can study from home (using online distance learning), undertake specific modules of a course or study a full course over a longer period of time. The Open University has a whole range of supported open learning, visit their website for more details.
You can also access advice on which studying options and courses are best for you, using a careers advice service, such as nextsteps. Call 0845 052 1040 to find your nearest centre.
Job Search
Q. I’ve just been made redundant, where can I find alternative work?
A. Your local Jobcentre should be your first point of call for finding new work and to offer advise on training opportunities which may lead to employment. For more information visit the Job centre website. However, there are other companies that can help you get back into employment including various job search companies that can send your CV to a wide range of companies. For more information visit the Find Your Way Back to Work website.
Q. I have just been made redundant, and am considering starting my own business. Is it a good idea to start up business during a recession?
A. Business Link offer free advice for anyone wishing to start up their own business. They also hold events and seminars for you to access guidance and information face-to-face with an adviser and a network of support. Their website offers help on a whole range of subjects from finding the money, setting up a premises, marketing and employment. For more information contact an adviser on 08456 048 048 or visit their website.
Q. Where can I get help with CV Writing/Interview Skills?
A. Many people find writing their CV and attending an interview to be a really daunting time. In the current climate, making the right first impression is crucial and there is plenty of support available to help get it right. There are various career management companies that assist with CV writing, interview skills and hold assesment centres. For advice and support visit the Careers Advice Service website.
Q. Where can I find Job profiles that tell me what different jobs involve?
A. Finding the right Job is crucial and knowing what skills employers want is important for long term Job satisfaction. To browse through over 700 job profiles and see which one is right for you visit the Careers Advice Service Website.
