Sainsbury’s recent decision to cut over 3,000 jobs has left many employees facing uncertainty and financial hardship. This move, part of a wider cost-cutting strategy, has sparked concerns about job security and the potential impact on the retail sector. For those affected, understanding their rights and options is crucial.

In his latest blog, Clive Mackintosh, an experienced settlement agreement solicitor explores the legal rights employees at risk of redundancy have.

Understanding your redundancy rights

Consultation

Sainsbury’s is legally obligated to consult with affected employees or their representatives, such as trade unions, before making any decisions about redundancies. This consultation process should involve discussing potential alternatives to redundancy and providing information about the selection criteria used.

Fair Selection

Sainsbury’s must follow a fair and objective selection process for redundancy. This typically involves assessing factors like performance, skills, and experience, rather than discriminatory grounds like age, gender, or race.

Right to Information

Sainsbury’s must provide detailed information about the proposed redundancies, including the reasons for the dismissal, the number and descriptions of employees affected, and the proposed method of selecting employees for redundancy. Additionally, if 100 or more employees are involved, Sainsbury’s must notify the Secretary of State at least 45 days before the first employee dismissal. Collective redundancy consultations are governed by the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.

Redundancy Settlement Agreement

Redundancy settlement agreements are legally binding contracts that can be used to resolve employment disputes, including those related to redundancy. These agreements typically involve the employer offering the employee a financial payment or other benefits in exchange for the employee agreeing not to pursue any further legal claims.

If you are asked to sign a Sainsbury’s redundancy settlement agreement, or if you are experiencing a similar situation, contact me now for legal advice, simply get in touch today.

For advice on concluding your settlement agreement contact Clive Mackintosh today, call 0330 043 8845, email clive@solicitor.help, or request a call back.