Jaguar Land Rover job losses, what should employees do now?

The news of potential job losses at Jaguar Land Rover will understandably be worrying for employees and their families. It is understood that office based staff could be at risk.

If you are affected, the key thing is not to make any rushed decisions.

If your role is put at risk, engage with the consultation process. Ask why your role has been selected, what criteria have been used and whether there are other roles available within the business. Keep copies of correspondence and make notes of any important meetings.

If voluntary redundancy is offered, take time to understand the package before accepting it. Check what you will receive for redundancy, notice, accrued holiday, bonus and any other benefits. If you are being asked to sign a settlement agreement, make sure you understand exactly what you are agreeing to.

Being made redundant does not automatically mean that an employer has done anything wrong. Businesses are entitled to restructure and genuine redundancies happen. But employers still need to follow a fair process, and there are additional consultation requirements where larger numbers of employees are affected.

If something about the process does not feel right, ask questions early rather than waiting until your employment has ended.