Reduced hours, redundancy and maternity.

Bamama

I've been working for the same company for years (not far off 10). I've been the only employee other than a brief stint when I was on maternity leave and for a few months when I returned. I went from 40hrs down to 18hrs. This was my choice due to child care and my boss happily agreed. This was over 2yrs ago.

There was a decline in sales and it was decided that one employee would be let go. I was offered redundancy at this time but obviously chose to stay. Boss was rather grateful as it would have been a fairly large payout for a small business.

This week boss has mentioned that money is tight (sales are at a low) and reducing my hours may be on the cards. It was also mentioned that it may be best (for the finances there) that I take my maternity leave at the earliest date. I'm not due until the end of June and was planning to stay working for as long as I could.

I want to know where I stand if:
1. I don't agree to reduce my hours.
2. I'm being asked to take maternity leave asap.
3. It's decided that it's reduced hours or being sacked/laid off.

Would I still be able to get my redundancy? What happens if the business "has no money" to pay me redundancy?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Bamama

Any ideas people?

Darksparkle

You can't be made to start maternity early unless you're off work for any reason to do with your pregnancy from the fourth week before your baby is due.

If you are the only employee who will do the work if you are made redundant?

Bamama

One of the directors (it's a family business that's been split between them).

I thought not. Is the boss wrong for even suggesting it?

Darksparkle

Bamama wrote: »

One of the directors (it's a family business that's been split between them).

I thought not. Is the boss wrong for even suggesting it?

I think that depends on the relationship you have with them. They could be doing all they can to try help keep you on and that feels like a good option to them but they can't make you.

Bamama

We are close. I'd like to help them out as much as possible. At the same time I'd like to keep as much maternity leave for the other side as I can.

From what's been said it seems like my options are limited. Either take reduced hours, take my leave asap and hope that there'll be a job to return to. Or... take my leave as late as I want to and risk being let go before it starts.

Do you think it would be wise to ask for a written proposal? The not knowing is seriously stressful.