I am employed as a socialworker in a specialist role providing therapy to children and young people. It has been muted for a little while now that they are 'reviewing' the service. Three weeks ago i was informed that the service would be moved to local NHS but i would have possibility of being 'tuped' to that service and stay in my role. Two days later i was informed by another manager that this was indeed the case but i would not be transfered/tuped. I was assured that any changes would be in some months time and i would be informed along the way. Today i was in a meeting and informed that as of 31st march the project i work for will cease to exist and i won't have a job - they will offer me re-deployment to a children and families team.
Questions
Can they just call me in and do this? Shouldn't they have given me something formal in writing?
I don't want to work in a children and families team, what do i do. My boss said if i don't like the options offered then ihave to resign. Is that true?
If i have the email saying that i will be offered opportunity of 'tupe', is that binding especially given that nothing else is in writing?
Should i have been informed to bring union rep with me or to consult with HR?
I was employed a year ago when i now know they have been planning changes for 18 months, should they have told me at ionterview that changes were being planned?
Phew? sorry this is a bit rambling but just in shock at the moment. Love my job made big sacrifices a year ago to take up this position (as did my family! its less money and lower grade and less hours than previous job)because i wanted to specialise. Now thats all come to nothing and it feels like my only option is to take a job that I never ever wanted.
Hope I might get some advice as I have to 'do' something tomorrow can't just sit back just don't know what my next move should be
Thanks
Kim