Redundancy during cancer treatment

Has anyone had any experience dealing with redundancy and consultations while undergoing cancer treatment? Any recommendations regarding employment lawyers who have been involved in negotiations and settlements?

Hi there. I am really sorry you are dealing with this on top of having treatment.

I’m not an expert, but do know that cancer is covered by the Disability Act, so it might be worth exploring further, perhaps with the help of legal advice.

I hope you manage to get the result you are hoping for.

Thank you, Jaygo. It has been difficult. Yes I’m aware re. disability. I am not the only person selected so it’s seems there is little I can do apart from go through with negotiations and potentially get a better deal.

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It may be worth contacting ACAS. They offer free advice and are excellent.

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You could try MacMillan as well as ACAS they do give advice and help about employment . You may not think you are being discriminated again at because of your cancer and perhaps that really is the case but best to be sure . I imagine if you are in a union you will have contacted them already . Sorry you are having to deal with this on top of everything else. Xx

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Thank you! It’s crappy but keeping perspective is helping me get through it. Have called Macmillian and ACAS - they are brilliant as always but seems I get bounced back to seek lawyers.

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The only other thing I can think of is perhaps Citizens Advice Bureau . I have heard that every person is entitled to 15 free minutes of legal advice in their life - my Mum used this to get advice once I think it was something to do with pensions but that’s a long time ago . I hope you find someone xx

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If they’re making you redundant, you don’t automatically need to hire a lawyer at your own expense.

In a normal redundancy process, your employer should consult with you, explain the reason properly, use fair selection criteria, and pay what you’re entitled to (notice pay, unused holiday, and redundancy pay if you’ve been there 2+ years).

A solicitor is usually only required if they ask you to sign a Settlement Agreement. In that case, you do need independent legal advice for it to be valid - but most employers contribute towards or fully cover the cost of that advice.

Check the agreement, it usually states how much they will cover for legal fees.
If the contribution is too low or not mentioned, you can ask them to increase it. It’s completely normal to negotiate that part.

If something doesn’t feel right or fair, speak to ACAS first - they give free and confidential guidance.

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Thanks Karira!

I was in a similar bind last year, and having a rhode island dui lawyer who actually knew the ins and outs of the laws made the whole process way less overwhelming. Mine walked me through the breath test issues and helped me push for community service instead of harsher penalties, which took a huge weight off.