Redundancies: Lessons Learnt From The Recession

With economic uncertainty set to continue into 2012, redundancies and other cost-cutting measures are likely to remain firmly on the agenda. But if these measures are not implemented properly, the consequences for an employer can be significant and expensive.

With this in mind, we have set out below some "dos and don'ts" gleaned from the case law and practical experiences since the down-turn in 2008.

1. Do consider collective consultation obligations, if applicable

Where an employer dismisses as redundant 20 or more employees at any one establishment within a period of 90 days, that employer must undertake a collective consultation process either with the recognised trade union or representatives elected for the purpose.