Redundancy is a termination of employment when an employer intends to reduce their workforce. Redundancy is unrelated to an employee’s performance or conduct.

Seeking volunteers for redundancy (usually called voluntary redundancy) is a legitimate means for an employer to avoid, or reduce, the need for compulsory redundancies. There must be a fair and transparent selection process, and employees are not automatically guaranteed this will be granted if they volunteer.

It is the RCN’s position that any redundancies in an NHS employer in England should match the redundancy terms outlined in the NHS (Agenda for Change) terms and conditions handbook. 

The RCN will continue to engage with all discussion and consultation with NHS employers in England regarding any proposed voluntary redundancy scheme to secure the best outcomes achievable for our members.

The RCN will advocate collectively for the best possible outcome for our members, but the decision to express an interest in, apply for or accept voluntary redundancy is a personal one.

National discussion and consultation

NHS Leaders have shared an initial document regarding voluntary redundancy with the trade unions on the national Social Partnership Forum. The trade unions have commented on this and expressed a significant number of objections to the content of the document.

The RCN and other trade unions have not agreed any documents for a voluntary redundancy scheme or framework at a national level.

Local discussion and consultation

If the RCN is recognised as a trade union by an NHS employer in England, we will proactively take part in discussion and consultation on any proposed voluntary redundancy scheme.

The RCN will give our position as above and advocate for the best possible outcomes achievable in any proposed scheme.

The RCN will ask for an Equality Impact Assessment for any proposed voluntary redundancy scheme.

The RCN is aware that some NHS Employers in England have run “expression of interest” exercises before they propose a voluntary redundancy scheme. When the RCN becomes aware of these exercises we will advocate for these to be transparent and fair.

Individual position

Expressing an interest in, applying for, or accepting voluntary redundancy offered by an NHS employer in England is a personal choice.

Individuals should carefully consider the terms of any offer of voluntary redundancy made by an employer. This includes any restrictions that may be placed on an individual in the agreement and their personal circumstances including finances and take advice as appropriate.

Individuals should also take advice if they think that a fair process is not being followed, or they feel pressured into taking voluntary redundancy, especially if they have any protected characteristics that they think may be influencing processes or decisions. RCN members should contact RCN Direct if they have any concerns.