Being made redundant whilst on maternity leave

[TLN]

I have been informed in writing that my job is at risk. I am due to return to work in January after having 9 months off. They have said two new roles are being created. I am yet to have a meeting with them but a) do I have to apply for one of the new jobs and b) if I dont want them, can I still get redundancy pay? any comments/help would be gratefully appreciated. Thank you!!

[flowerybeanbag]

TLN you do not have to apply for a job. If there is a job which is 'suitable' for you, you must be offered it, you can't be asked to compete for it.

If you unreasonably refuse to accept a job which is 'suitable' you are not entitled to redundancy pay, no. You can have a trial period in the new job to establish whether it is suitable, but if it is a reasonable alternative, you must accept it. See here about redundancy.

HTH

[flowerybeanbag]

This is assuming this all happens while you are on maternity leave. If you are back before it all happens, then you don't get preferential treatment and can be asked to apply for one of the new jobs, if that's the process they are using. You should be told all about the process they are using when you have your meeting.

[StrangeTown]

Hello - my HR manager said that women returning to work after maternity MUST get preference in these situations and should be offered one/both of the roles.
If you don't want it and your previous role is no longer available, then yes, I think a redundancy situation applies and you should get a package.
I'm sure a proper HR person will be along soon with correct legal info.

[StrangeTown]

Oof flowery got there first with proper info see!