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A law firm with an office in Birkenhead and that is based in Merseyside has launched a guide to kindly help NHS workers during tough times. Specifically, the guide relates to potential job cuts that the health service is considering, and ensures workers know their rights as the prospect of cuts and voluntary redundancies looms.
As reported by the Wirral Globe, JR Levins has produced the free online guide to explain settlement agreements, Mutually Agreed Resignation Schemes (MARS) and voluntary redundancy packages.
Particularly across Merseyside and Cheshire, NHS organisations are looking to save money over mounting financial pressures. According to trade union UNISON, at least 21,000 NHS roles could be lost nationally by 2028.
More than 660 staff at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust have already applied for voluntary redundancy, with applications currently being processed in phases.
Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust has also said it needs to make around £20 million in savings over the next year, while Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board is reducing running costs as part of wider NHS reforms. The trust has expressed how challenging the situation is.
Jon Heath, Head of Litigation and Employment Law at JR Levins, said many NHS workers are being asked to make important decisions without fully understanding the documents they have received.
He said: "For many NHS workers, this is an incredibly stressful time. Our message is simple: do not sign anything until you understand exactly what it means."
The guide explains common terms found in redundancy paperwork and outlines employees' legal rights before signing a settlement agreement. Under UK law, anyone signing a settlement agreement must receive independent legal advice, and employers often contribute towards the cost.
JR Levins is encouraging affected NHS staff to seek advice before accepting any offer, warning that settlement agreements can have implications for redundancy pay, notice periods, tax and future legal claims.
Read the firm's guidance here: jrlevins.co.uk/services/nhs-settlement-agreement-solicitor/
