Redundancy consultation
The process before any redundancy decision. Genuine, and it must be capable of changing the outcome.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
Individual consultation is required for any redundancy. Collective consultation obligations arise at twenty or more proposed redundancies at one establishment within ninety days.
Why it matters
Most successful unfair dismissal claims from redundancy are about process, and inadequate consultation is the most common failing.
What it looks like in practice
Consult on the proposal, the pool, the selection criteria and alternatives, before any decision. Collective consultation has statutory minimum periods and requires notification to the Secretary of State.\n\nSuitable alternative employment must be considered.
What to watch out for
Consulting after the decision. If nothing the employee says could change anything, it is not consultation.\n\nProtective awards for failing to consult collectively are up to ninety days' pay per employee.
Where to get proper advice
https://www.acas.org.uk/ and an employment solicitor for anything collective.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
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