Redunancy on Maternity

Looking for some HR/Employment Law type advice/ if anyone has been through similar? My workplace has pulled all staff together yesterday for a staff meeting (I wasn’t invited as I guess because I’m on maternity leave?) and told them all that due to financial situation they are in, they are going to restructure/make some redundancies. I haven’t been made aware so I don’t know when I’ll be spoken to. Am I at risk? I know there’s a level of protection for those on maternity but if it’s related to business continuity etc could I lose my job? Also, I was hoping to ask to go back part time, and had booked to see them next week for it - I’m now scared to ask incase it puts me at risk? Thank you for any advice!
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The only way they can make you redundant while on maternity leave is if they make your entire department redundant. As it seems like they will be minimising staff, then you won't be at risk.

You should also ring ACAS for free advice on your situation. You asking to go back part time shouldn’t put you at risk and if it does it’s illegal! Keep a note of everything they’re doing - including the fact you weren’t invited to the all staff meeting etc just to keep your back covered. x

@Emma thank you. Yeah I’ve started too as they’ve been known to act a little rogue. I’m quite panicked as hadnt bargained for the risk of no money 🥲

@Jayde that’s good to know. I am just so worried the element of asking to go back part time would mean I’m more at risk 🫠 xx

You can request to go back part time but they don't have to grant your request. They have to offer you your job back (under the same contract and hours) or an equivalent if they do a restructure. I'm not sure if that's the same if they are making redundancies or if they can make your position redundant whilst your on leave. I would definitely check that with ACAS and what your redundancy entitlements would be. It does however mean because they don't have to grant your request for reduced hours you might be left with the decision to either go back full time or find a new job. They can 'get rid' (basically force you out, legally) this way.

ACAS and Pregnant Then Screwed. I was made redundant as it was legal because I was in a 'pool of one' xxx

@Jane oh Jane that’s rubbish - I was also made redundant as my company went into administration but they kept on my mat cover (who was actively cutting me out of comms) for wind down operations which was a kick in the face. Did ACAS or Pregnant Than Screwed help?

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