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WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUDDENLY LOSE YOUR JOB
With Wilko going under alongside plenty of other previously thriving businesses, you may feel nervous about your job. Here’s what to do if you face redundancy
With big household names like Wilko, Wetherspoons and Clintons Cards all closing branches, more of us than ever are likely to be feeling panicked about future job security. We spoke to the experts on how to cope if it happens to you…
PRESS PAUSE
“The fear of no longer having a guaranteed income means people often throw themselves immediately into job-hunting, but rushing can lead to bad decision making,” says Jill Cotton, career trends expert at Gumtree.
First, tie up any loose ends from your old role, starting with ensuring you’ve been paid what you’re owed. “In that final pay cheque you should have your owed wages, plus any holiday days you didn’t use, along with any owed bonuses or commission, plus ‘pay in lieu of notice’ if you didn’t work your full notice. Check it’s correct,” says Jill.
If your employer has gone under, you can claim money you’re owed from the government – visitgov.uk/ claim-redundancy.
GET WHAT YOU’RE ENTITLED TO
You can claim Jobseekers Allowance while you’re job hunting – up to £67.20 a week if you’re 24 or under, and up to £84.80 a week if you’re 25-plus, from your local Jobcentre Plus office. They can help you with your CV, see if you could be claiming any benefits, organise work trials and claim money if you’re eligible to help meet costs for travel, childcare, tools or equipment. You may also be able to claim back some income tax. Visit gov.uk/claim-tax-refund to check.
REFRAME THE NEWS
Losing your job can feel shocking, but zoom out. “Try reframing the situation by looking at the job warts and all,” says Jill. “Being temporarily out of work may be an opportunity to try something new or upskill.” She suggests writing down precisely what you want from an employer and a role and how you’d like your career to develop, noting whether those things are non-negotiable. “If there was something in your previous job you loved but didn’t get to do, could you look for a role that leans on those skills? Equally, if there were parts of your job you didn’t enjoy, make a note – it’ll help define what you need for job satisfaction going forward.”
FIND POSITIVITY
“An employer’s change in business direction doesn’t mean you weren’t great at your job,” Jill points out. “Be confident about the areas you excel at and look for roles where these skills are needed. While you search, try connecting with co-workers in the same position, as they will understand how you feel. Surround yo
