What to Do Immediately After Being Made Redundant: First Steps to Take

by Joseph | 26 Sep 2025

Being made redundant can feel like the rug has been pulled from under you. It is not only a financial shock but also an emotional one. In the UK, recent data shows that almost 1 in 5 workers know someone who has been affected by redundancy in 2025, so you are far from alone. The important thing is to focus on what you can control in the coming days and weeks. Here are some practical and caring steps to help you move forward.

Look After Your Emotional Wellbeing

The first step is to acknowledge the emotional side. Redundancy often brings feelings of loss, worry, and sometimes embarrassment. Give yourself a moment to process what has happened. Talking with friends, family, or a trusted colleague can help lighten the load. Many people find it useful to contact organisations such as Mind or ACAS for free support. Taking care of your mental health early will give you the strength to focus on the next stage: job seeking. There are a selection of videos coming to the Laburo platform to help with this.

Understand Your Financial Position

Before rushing into looking for a job, it is sensible to review your finances. Redundancy pay, notice pay, and any unused holiday pay should be confirmed by your employer.

According to government guidance in 2025, statutory redundancy pay is based on your age, length of service, and weekly pay, capped at £700 per week. Write down your essential monthly costs such as rent, mortgage, and utilities. If you are worried, speak to your bank about payment holidays or support options. Citizens Advice can also guide you on benefits you may be entitled to while job seeking.

Take Stock of Your Skills and CV

Once you have stabilised the immediate financial and emotional impact, turn to your next step: preparing for work again. This is where you can regain a sense of control. Start with your CV. Many people wait until they are in an interview process, but updating your CV now is key. Focus on achievements, not just duties, and tailor it to the type of roles you are looking for. If you need help with CV writing, there are free online templates and career coaches available to guide you – some are available in the document vault on Laburo.

Employers and recruiters expect applicants to show evidence of adaptability, especially in 2025’s fast-changing job market.

Begin Job Seeking with a Plan

Searching for a role can be overwhelming if you do not structure it. Set aside a daily or weekly routine to apply for jobs. Register with recruitment agencies, job boards, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn. Using phrases such as “looking for a job” in your profile headline can make you more visible to employers. Keep a simple tracker of applications, interviews, and follow-ups so you do not lose momentum – this is the key feature in Laburo for you to take advantage of. Many people underestimate the power of their personal network, so reach out to contacts and let them know you are job seeking.

Access Support and Training

Finally, redundancy can also be an opportunity to refresh your skills. In 2025, the UK government is funding short training courses in digital, leadership, and sustainability sectors. Making use of these can strengthen your CV and show employers that you are proactive. Redundancy may feel like an ending, but with the right support, it can also be the start of a new chapter.

Key takeaway

If you have been made redundant, focus on emotional support, financial stability, updating your CV, and structured job seeking. With help and planning, you can regain confidence and secure your next opportunity.