Job Relocation

devil1236

Hi, my employer want open another warehouse 20 miles away from my current place. They have been looking for volunteers to move there but unfortunately not many people applied. I have been invited to a meeting with head of department last week and been informed that I have been chosen due to my skillset to go there. That wasn't yes or no question, more like information. My problem is that I don't own a car or even have a driving licence, I have informed them about it obviously but they didn't seem bothered. Only other options I have is to either move house to be closer but rent itself would cost me double to find something similar to what I have now or use train but that would cost me 300 pounds extra a month plus additional 2h travel time one way. Can they make me redundant for refusing even if moving would mean significant financial costs for me? 

Brynsam

What does your contract say about the location of your workplace?

If there is a clause which means the employer could ask you to relocate, and you refuse to do so, then that isn't redundancy. They can simply dismiss you for not complying with the terms of your contract.

Any chance you could turn this to your advantage by suggesting they foot the bill for driving lessons? 

AskAsk

they can't make you redundant if your job still exist in your current location.  they can do so, if your job will no longer exist.
you may be able to negotiate a pay rise, travel expense and travel time.  see what they say at the meeting. if you have skills they need in the new location and they want you to work there, they may offer incentives for you to do so.

devil1236

Brynsam said:

What does your contract say about the location of your workplace?

If there is a clause which means the employer could ask you to relocate, and you refuse to do so, then that isn't redundancy. They can simply dismiss you for not complying with the terms of your contract.

Any chance you could turn this to your advantage by suggesting they foot the bill for driving lessons? 

I have signed the contract nearly 9 years ago and already moved a couple of time with them but this time is too far for me. I have a clause that they can require me to move within 15 miles  from my 1st place of work that doesn't even exist anymore.is it still relevant? Or I if new place is 20 miles away from my current work place is shouldn't apply?