The Elephant In The Room – The R Word

Date posted: 2nd May 2020

No one wants to say it out loud but unfortunately at some point, whether it’s now or in the next few months, some of us may have to deal with redundancy.  

It’s never an easy decision to have to make BUT during times of economic crisis and uncertainty, having to carry out a redundancy exercise can sometimes be inevitable.  

Here at Kingswood Group, we are specialists when it comes to:  

• Supporting organisations with identifying and understanding their options when it comes to managing people in their business. 
• Taking time to listen to what businesses want to do with their people and then advise accordingly taking into account the end goal and employment legislation. 
• Partnering with our customers to support them in times of crisis on how to manage their people and processes.

We are here to help you to get through what is undeniably an emotionally and financially challenging time. We recommend the 4 Be’s;  

Be Prepared  

Take time to assess all of your options.  

Review your workforce whilst thinking about short term and long terms needs for the business. Are there any other ways that you can cut your workforce costs such as a restructure, freezing recruitment, offering pay cuts or reducing working hours? 

If you are sure that there are no viable solutions other than redundancy, then we’re here to help. Our experienced team at Kingswood Group will ensure that you are completely prepared to carry out the redundancy process with expert legal and ethical advice throughout the preparation process. We also pride ourselves on offering as much professional and emotional support before, during and after the redundancy has to be made.  

Be Legal  

Ensure you know what the legal redundancy process involves and how to properly carry out communications with those impacted.  

If you are not completely sure of the process, it is vital that you talk to your HR professional or visit ACAS, this will help you avoid future employment claims which may cost you money. 

We understand that legalities and legislation changes can be difficult to process and navigate whilst also carrying out the day-to-day demands of a business. That’s why we’re here to guide you through that process and relieve as much pressure as possible, enabling you to do what you do best and focus on doing your job to the best of your ability. 

 Be Responsible  

 Taking responsibility can be a challenging thing to do in difficult circumstances. The vast majority of the time, when redundancies are necessary, it is not personal. Most of the time it is just a necessary action that is essential for the longevity of the business.  

But with that being said, there is no denying that making redundancies can be devastating to different members of your workforce. Taking responsibility means understanding all of their circumstances, personalities and goals. By doing this, you make the process as comfortable and smooth as it possibly can be. 

 Here at Kingswood Group, with over 15 years of industry leading experience, we have developed the ability to support you in this process and make sure that it is as it possibly can be.  

 We have learnt that in the professional world one of the most problematic things that you can do is burn bridges. Specific industries often have small worlds and to act responsibly and professionally at all times, even when making redundancies, may well have its benefits one day when things start to look up again.  

Be Kind 

 Remember we are all human beings.  

 We understand that when push comes to shove, the workplace has to be a professional environment and nothing should get in the way of that. Nevertheless, it is undeniable that making redundancies is an emotionally difficult time for all involved.  

 So whatever you have to do, make sure that you do it with kindness.  

 Being personable and supportive to members of your workforce and demonstrating acts of genuine human decency can go a long way. Being kind, empathetic and showing understanding towards other individuals is something that will make the process a lot easier to navigate for every individual involved. 

 It costs nothing to be kind. 

Kingswood Group 

 For more information or to have a confidential conversation about how the Kingswood Group HR team can help you and your business with this or any other employees issues contact Sarah on 07743 864737 / 01245 204450 or ​sarah@kingswoodgroup.org 

Stay safe, stay home.