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Handling redundancy, restructuring and change: a masterclass
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Overview
Redundancy can be one of the most challenging processes that employees and employers experience. It is a form of dismissal and carries significant legal, operational and reputational risks if managed poorly. The way it is handled can shape employee trust, wellbeing and engagement, and influence how the organisation is viewed long after the process has ended.
Join us at this event to:
- explore the legal framework surrounding redundancy
- learn how to conduct meaningful consultation that goes beyond compliance
- develop the communication and people skills needed to manage redundancy effectively
- hear practical lessons from organisations that have navigated redundancy processes
- explore alternatives to redundancy and why it should be a last resort
Business Need
Organisations facing economic pressures, reduced demand, technological change or restructuring need to ensure they approach workforce change fairly, transparently and lawfully.
Organisations that invest in meaningful consultation, clear communication and support for employees are more likely to maintain trust and preserve working relationships throughout periods of organisational change.
Delivered via Zoom, this digital masterclass will explore:
- when redundancy may be appropriate and when alternatives should be considered
- restructuring, automation and changing workforce needs
- individual and collective consultation requirements
- the risks associated with failing to consult effectively
- engaging effectively with trade unions
- supporting line managers through difficult conversations
- providing effective support before, during and after a redundancy process
- practical lessons from employers who have managed redundancy programmes
Suitable For
Those who would benefit from attending this event include:
- line managers, supervisors and team leaders
- HR professionals
- business owners
- trade union/employee representatives
- individuals who wish to further their professional development
Programme
Chaired by Senior Business Adviser, Acas
Redundancy fundamentals: legal requirements and good practice
- redundancy as a form of dismissal
- fair redundancy processes and employer responsibilities
- alternatives to redundancy and why redundancy should be a last resort
- common pitfalls and lessons from case law
- individual and collective redundancy obligations
Meaningful consultation: beyond ticking the box
- what meaningful consultation looks like in practice
- legal requirements and best practice
- building trust and credibility through communication
- handling difficult questions and challenges
- creating opportunities for genuine employee input
Working with representatives and independent workplace bodies
- the contribution of recognised trade unions
- building constructive employment relations during change
- managing collective concerns and expectations
- partnering effectively throughout consultation
- lessons from successful employer-representative relationships
- preventing unnecessary conflict and escalation
Lessons learned: managing redundancy in practice
- a real-world redundancy experience
- what worked well and what was challenging
- supporting employees throughout the process
- managing leadership and line manager responsibilities
- maintaining morale among remaining employees
- reflections on communication, consultation and decision-making
- key lessons for future organisational change
Panel Discussion - The human side of redundancy: leadership, communication and support
A facilitated discussion with all speakers exploring:
- how managers can approach difficult conversations with empathy and confidence
- the role of the "teller" in individual and collective redundancy situations
- supporting managers who deliver redundancy messages
- employee wellbeing before, during and after redundancy
- preserving trust and organisational reputation
- what organisations wish they had known before starting a redundancy process
- audience questions and practical takeaways