What’s happening in the NHS now

Across England and Wales the NHS is undergoing one of the largest workforce restructures seen in recent years. Widespread organisational changes, including cuts to administrative, managerial and regional commissioning roles, have been approved as part of a cost-saving and system-reform plan. This has led to thousands of NHS employees entering redundancy consultations, with further job changes expected across national teams, regional bodies and integrated care boards.

In areas across the North West, particularly around Lancaster, Morecambe, Preston and Poulton-le-Fylde, NHS workers have begun to receive notices indicating that posts may be at risk or subject to review. Many support functions and back-office teams are experiencing the greatest uncertainty, but the impact is being felt across a wide range of departments. Staff are reporting concerns about restructuring, redeployment and potential changes to existing roles. While some employees may ultimately face redundancy, it is important to emphasise that job loss cannot be assumed at this stage. Any dismissal for redundancy must only occur following a legally compliant process, including meaningful consultation, fair selection and proper consideration of alternative roles.

As NHS organisations aim to reduce running costs, many teams across Lancashire and surrounding regions are preparing for further announcements, but outcomes will vary depending on individual circumstances and local restructuring plans.

What the redundancies are and what they mean for you

NHS redundancies typically happen when your role is no longer needed due to restructuring, cost reductions or service redesign. This can lead to voluntary redundancy options, compulsory redundancy where justified, competitive interviews for fewer roles or redeployment into alternative positions. In practice, staff in administrative, managerial and support roles across trusts, ICBs and commissioning support units may be informed that their role is under review or potentially at risk.

Employees in areas such as Lancaster, Morecambe or Preston may be asked to apply for new positions, enter talent pools or engage in consultation meetings to understand whether their role will continue. During this period, it is crucial to understand your rights. NHS staff may be entitled to statutory redundancy pay if they meet the qualifying criteria, and some may be eligible for contractual enhancements depending on local policies. Employers must follow a fair consultation process, provide clear reasoning for proposed redundancies and consider suitable alternative employment where available.

Redundancy can also raise questions about notice periods, future employment prospects and pension implications. The NHS Pension Scheme is complex, particularly for those close to retirement age or considering early retirement options. Employees in Lancashire and the wider North West should be encouraged to seek specialist pensions advice alongside employment law advice, especially where redundancy enhancements, actuarial reductions or early retirement estimates may significantly affect long-term financial planning.

The emotional impact should not be overlooked. Redundancy often brings uncertainty and stress, particularly in regions where NHS employment is a major part of the local economy. Ensuring you have clear guidance and accurate information can make a considerable difference during the process.

How Pre-Law can help employees affected by NHS redundancies

We understand the difficulties redundancy poses, particularly for those working in essential public services such as the NHS. Whether you are based in Morecambe, Lancaster, Poulton-le-Fylde, Preston or anywhere across Lancashire, we offer clear, fixed-fee employment law support to help you understand your rights and next steps.

We can review your redundancy situation in detail, including whether the employer has followed a legally compliant process, whether redundancy payments have been correctly calculated and whether any suitable alternative roles have been properly explored. If you have concerns that the process may be unfair or discriminatory, we can advise on your options for bringing a claim to an employment tribunal.

If you receive a settlement agreement, Pre-Law can provide the required legal advice before you sign it, explain the terms in plain English and negotiate improvements where appropriate. We ensure you understand how the agreement affects your employment record, future roles and overall financial position. Where pension issues arise, we can advise on the employment law elements and signpost you to appropriate specialist pensions support so that you have a full picture before making decisions.

For those considering a career change or moving into self-employment after redundancy, we can also assist with contracts, agreements and wider legal guidance.
If you are facing an NHS redundancy in Lancaster, Morecambe, Preston or the surrounding areas, seeking early advice is the best way to protect your position. Pre-Law is here to provide practical, clear legal support at a time when certainty matters most.

For more information please contact us on 01524 907100, info@pre-law.co.uk or through our online enquiry form