Redundant with less than 2 years service- what will they say on my reference?

[Mxflamingnoravera]

I strongly expect to be made redundant tomorrow. I have fewer than 2 years service so I know they can dismiss me for any reason and have no rights apart from contractural or statutary regarding fair dismissal due to protected characteristics. How do I explain this to a new employer if my current emoloyer calls it dismissal? (I suspect they are trying to avoid having to involve consultation and unions etc by going over the 15 employees, I have exemplary service and won an award for my performance in my first year so there is no reason for dismissal other than a restructure which is likely, and related to a new, but as yet unapproved by the board strategy)

Is it reasonable to ask for an agreed reference before I leave? One that is clear that I was not dismissed but my post was cut due to restructure?

You can certainly ask that they be clear in a reference that your reason for dismissal was redundancy. Many employers only give dates of employment now on a reference anyway, and wouldn’t give reason for termination anyway. Check what their usual practice is for references, and if they do give more information, ask if they can put redundancy.

So today, we have had an announcement of redundancies, it's pretty clear that my meeting today is part of that. But, there is a 30 day consultation period, which will, when added to my three months notice will mean that I go over my two years service (unless they decide to dismiss immediately which would be treating me differently to the others in the pool, I'm not sure if this would considered fair).

So, it's watch this space now... at least I know what's happening.

Nobody will care when you are interviewing. Just say “redundancy” and leave it at that

And most references just state dates and title

Normally its pay in lieu of notice in a redundancy situation so you might not go over the 2 years after all.

As others have said what is very common is X worked here from A date to B date ( implication - no issues with this employee ) - & won't comment further so unless there is something else - I would say that is a standard reference from many companies. Put your work record and award on your CV

They said I'm expected to work my three months notice today. ffs, they expect me to work my tits off for nowt.
I'm taking legal advice tomorrow.

@Mxflamingnoravera

They said I'm expected to work my three months notice today. ffs, they expect me to work my tits off for nowt. I'm taking legal advice tomorrow.

There’s nothing wrong with expecting you to work your notice period, although I appreciate it’s irritating.