Dismissals and redundancies

Sometimes it may be necessary to dismiss a member of staff or make them redundant. Following the right procedures helps protect your business and minimises the risk of a legal dispute at tribunal.

Sooner or later, every business with employees will experience turnover. Use our handy checklist to make sure the exit period is handled well.

Read our frequently asked questions about making employees redundant, including what procedures to follow and alternatives to consider.

Under a settlement agreement, a compensation payment is typically given to the employee in return for the employee agreeing not to make any claims against the employer.

A shift in the economic climate, merger or move to a new location can all make redundancies inevitable. Our overview of how to manage redundancies.

FAQs on dismissing employees, including disciplinary procedures and what to do about claims of constructive or wrongful dismissal.

Writing a reference for an ex-employee can land you in legal hot water. Understand your rights and obligations when providing references.

There will automatically be a finding of unfair dismissal against you, if you sack an employee or select them for redundancy for any of these reasons.

If your workers' leisure activities create problems with other colleagues or could potentially damage your business' reputation – what can you do?

Always take advice before dismissing employees. They could bring one or a combination of three claims against you if you handle the dismissal badly.

Giving references - answers to common questions about what references you must give employees and the possible consequences

You may be able to avoid making redundancies at all. However, if it does become necessary you need to follow the right procedures - read our guide.

If you need to cut costs, you don’t always need to make redundancies. We list some ways you can cut your costs, not your workforce.

From reclaiming your business' property to ensuring your confidential information is kept secret, you must make sure that everything you do is legal.

Dismissing an employee may be your best option if their performance is unacceptable, or their position no longer exists. Here are some simple rules.