Why do job application forms ask whether you are at risk of redundancy?

[DorsetandBeyond]

My DH applied for a job a few weeks ago and one of the questions on the online application form was "Are you currently at risk of redundancy?"

I found out last week that I am at risk of redundancy so have started applying for jobs myself - and have also just come across an online application form which asks the same question.

Why would a potential employer be asking this?
Could it be to do with your availability to start work quickly? Or is there another reason?
Do you think they would treat applicants differently in some way if they answered in the affirmative?

I'd never come across it before until these two instances within a short space of time, so I'm wondering how usual it is to ask this.

It makes sense if an internal application. Can't understand relevance for external candidates. Maybe they only have one application form that covers both.

Maybe to know how desperate you are and therfore willing to accept a shit salary?

Agree.

If it’s public sector it might be due to the RPMO rules which affect redundancy payments and continuity of service

Very common in the NHS and civil service although usually only for internal posts, it can be an effective way to redeploy staff. Unusual on an external vacancy though.

Of course HR could have ticked the wrong box when posting the vacancy....

Hmm, that's all interesting, thanks for the replies. One of the jobs is an NHS job (although an external applicant). The other is a not-for-profit organisation. I couldn't decide whether to tick the 'yes' box or not.

Is it because they use the same form for internal and external applicants?

Could be I guess @Calculuses