One way of avoiding a redundancy situation is by seeking redeployment opportunities for 'at risk' staff.

The need to balance the rights of existing employees with the need for the University to remain competitive in the market place is recognised. It has therefore been agreed that where a redundancy situation arises, the following approach will be adopted.

Redeployment within the department

Departments are encouraged to identify suitable opportunities for staff approaching the end of their contracts. Individuals may be assimilated to a new role where the skills, knowledge and qualifications required and the nature of the post are substantially similar and the grade is the same.

This reflects current practice whereby staff are often transferred to another project to prevent a redundancy situation from arising. This would not, however, apply where the individual was initially recruited outside the normal recruitment procedures.

Ensure all employees at risk of redundancy are given equal access to redeployment opportunities. This may require a competitive selection process in some cases.

The redeployment register

Staff at risk of redundancy can ask to be added to the redeployment register. Details of vacancies arising at the University are provided each day to staff on the register.

Staff can apply for a vacancy by expressing interest to HR. Such applications are considered in advance of other candidates, and if the individual is capable of doing the job they should be appointed and a trial period may be agreed.