Last week we began our consultation period shore side and regrettably announced a significant number of roles at risk of redundancy.
We don’t need to tell you that being at risk of losing your job can bring many pressures and financial worries. Whatever you are feeling right now, it is likely we will all feel differently about the news at different times and be working our way through it at our own pace and in our own ways. Whether you are feeling shock, denial, anger, worry, anxiety, uncertainty or perhaps even excitement and opportunity, these emotions are all normal.
If you’re struggling right now we hope this article helps you to find the support and information you may need over the coming months.
Don’t forget your Learning and Development team have also developed a series of webinars available this week – Understanding and planning for change, Change and your wellbeing and Change management.
It’s not personal
Not taking it personally is much easier said than done but it’s important to remember these are unprecedented times. If your role is at risk it’s important to remember the decision has not been based on what you have or have not achieved or contributed. For further details on the rationale behind redundancy take a look at the latest FAQ’s or speak with your consultation representatives.
You’re not alone
Talk about how you are feeling with your family, friends and those you trust. Redundancy can be stressful and how you feel about it can change day by day so make sure you have the support you need. You can also talk to someone confidentially using our Employee Assistance Programme, Validium, or acas, for independent redundancy advice.
Call EAP on 0800 3 58 48 58 (outside the UK +44 141 271 7179)
For online support join: Validium.com/vClub (Username: Carnival / Password: Harbour)
Batten down the financial hatches
Hope for the best and plan for the worst has come to be a saying we have all heard more and more but it’s absolutely relevant to protecting yourself financially in preparation of the outcome you receive from collective consultation. Try this free online budget planner to see where you can make savings, you can also find out how to calculate your redundancy payout here. You may also be eligible for benefits whilst you seek work, to understand what you might be entitled to visit Citizens Advice or call 03444 111 444.
To find out more about what might be available to you we also encourage you to watch this short webinar from Better with Money.
Focus on what you can control
Look after yourself by focussing on the things that are going to get you that next job, that financial break or help you develop that new skill or network. Taking that first step may be emotional so keep it simple by updating your CV (top tips here!), maybe even writing you CV, or building your professional network; every small step is a step in the right direction. Reflect and be proud of your talents, attributes and what you have achieved in your career to date – these will serve you well in the future. Remember there are lots of people out there who can help you too – many colleagues and connections are currently offering support such as CV reviews on LinkedIn.
Make the most of your time
With more time on our hands, for some of us, it’s easy to slip into a routine of feeling demotivated and generally not putting our best self forward. Try and get into a routine, get a good night’s sleep, get up at your usual time, make the most of your day and do things that make you happy. To help keep focus we recommend dedicating a few hours a day to professional development, applying for a role and job-hunting.
Set yourself goals
Set yourself a task each day and complete it. By making sure it is realistic, for example – complete one job application – you’ll get a sense of achievement too. By being clear on what you want to achieve you are far more likely to get it done.
Remember when one door closes, another one opens
Change is unsettling but it can also present great opportunity. Rather than rushing into a similar role you weren’t ever that happy in, think about what your dream job might be. If you can’t achieve it right now, think about the steps you might need to take to get there eventually. It might be a longer road but the reward will be great.
Look after yourself
It’s not healthy to constantly have anxious thoughts and feelings looming over you. Whilst it’s completely normal to feel these feelings, try and find a way to relax that works for you and helps you to take your mind off of your fears, anxieties and stresses. Try one of the podcasts below for inspiration and support.
- Dealing with the anxiety of uncertainty
- Managing anxiety with a positive mindset
- Staying resilient in challenging times
This week is mental health awareness week in the UK; if you are struggling with your mental health and have concerns we are here to support you. Speak with your line manager to arrange a referral to occupational health or use our free EAP service.
The Mental Health Foundation has also produced a series of booklets focusing on themes from coping with fear to meditation and mindfulness. Access them here.