Possible redundancy - will I be eligible for any financial help please?

[lesterlassone]

I'm in shock and need advice please. Posted here yesterday about student DD and tax query. Today have been told there is a strong possibility of redundancy. Could anyone tell me if I'd be eligible for redundancy pay (small company under 10 staff in total). I'm 55, have worked there for 16 years and earn £1650 per month before tax. Age is not on my side for a new job - would I qualify for any benefits do you think while I look for work? Thanks in advance. Need to stop panicking and think positive.

You should be able to claim redundancy of at least 23 weeks pay and if the company doesn't have any money left the National Insurance Fund should cover the liabiliity. You should be able to claim Job Seekers Allowance of £67.50 a week as soon as you are made redundant.

Do stop panicking and take some advice from a CAB or ACAS. Good luck

Sorry about the bad news. There is some very good information here from DirectGov - Redundancy and Leaving Your Job. As regards benefits and other state help you may find the Turn2Us Benefits Calculator is useful. Enter your details as if you had been made redundant and it should guide you in the direction of any help available. Job Centres are also a good resource. Good luck