Workplace moving - I don't want to move with it

jaysunuk

My place of work is struggling, it's likely they're going to move the business into our head office sometime soon.

For myself the new location would mean doubling the travel distance I already travel to 35 miles each way, this in turn doubles the travelling time (at least - it's a location known for heavy traffic) and doubles the fuels costs for my car (which would also cause problems as it's on a lease and the new mileage would exceed the allowance)

So I'm faced with increased travel costs, (my pay isn't enough to withstand these costs) without the car it would take 3hrs of travel each way with a mixture of buses and trains and walking - so that's not an option.

My contract does mention relocation - only that on occasions I may be required to travel to other locations.

Where do I stand with this? Am I within my rights to request redundancy? (I have no desire to work from the new location)

The company isn't known for treating employees fairly and I wouldn't expect reliable advice from their HR.

Can anyone advise? thank you

lincroft1710

https://www.gov.uk/employer-relocationht-your-rights

sangie595

If the distance is only 35 miles, it is highly unlikely that the employer must offer redundancy. The test is normally 50 miles or 90 minutes each way - unless you have very good grounds for this to be considered unreasonable, which does not include cost. Child care responsibilities or dependants - but even then it may not convince a tribunal ( who are the only arbiters of this). I'm afraid that the method under which you make your vehicle arrangements is not relevant. You might ask the employer for a relocation allowance, but even if they agree, it is likely to be temporary. So if you really don't want to go, I'd suggest that you look for a new job immediately.

getmore4less

Your job may be redundant and you need to convince the company that any position at the new location will not be a suitable alternative.

Your issue will be that the move may fall within acceptable limits so you are in the smaller group trying to make a case based on personal circumstances, you living where you do would not be enough on its own.

If they won't/cant need everyone to move then they will have to offer something sooner or later


One for collective negotiations through union, or get reps organized ASAP.