Somerset County Council employees working to rule over redundancy

Posted 26/06/2011

Many Somerset County Council employees are speaking out against redundancy payment cuts.

Under employment law, some workers who are set to lose their jobs will only be entitled to the legal minimum compensation, the Somerset County Gazette reports.

Unison members at the organisation are now working to rule after voting in favour of industrial action during a ballot taken earlier this month.

South-west regional organiser at the union Helen Eccles said: “They’ve once again demonstrated to the employer the strength of feeling on this issue with an overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action.”

She explained the length of the protest will depend on the reaction of the employer and how positively they respond.

The cuts have come as Taunton County Hall attempts to save millions of pounds by reducing services and jobs.

Earlier this month, chief executive of Work Wise UK Phil Flaxton said workers facing redundancy should seek legal advice to ensure they are aware of their rights.

Individuals who think they may have a claim under employment law can get advice from the team at Ashtons Legal.