Discretionary Voluntary Redundancy

How will we will decide which applications to accept for Discretionary Voluntary Redundancy.

Applications must first show a genuine redundancy (the post would be deleted or addressed through a managed ‘bumping’ arrangement). After that, the Council considers factors such as:

• whether the change supports future service design or transformation
• long‑term financial savings
• the skills and experience we need to retain
• the impact on service continuity
• whether the role supports statutory duties
• these checks help ensure decisions are fair, consistent and protect essential services

When you will hear about your application decision

Once the Voluntary Redundancy (VR) window closes and the panel has worked through all applications, we’ll update you directly. We aim to share outcomes as soon as possible so you can plan ahead confidently.

If your application is declined

There is no appeal process. 

All VR applications are assessed carefully against the agreed criteria, but because the scheme is entirely discretionary and based on organisational need, decisions are final. We appreciate this may feel disappointing, and we’re committed to making sure decisions are clearly explained and communicated with care.

I am on a fixed term contract can I still apply

Yes fixed‑term employees can apply, if by the date your employment would end under VR, you meet the same eligibility requirements as everyone else:

• you have 2 years or more of continuous local government service, and
• you are not already on notice of termination.

I have less than two years’ service. Can I still apply

You can apply, but you would need to have two years of continuous LG service by your actual leaving date for VR to be approved.

Will all applications for voluntary redundancy be accepted?

No. Applications must meet the eligibility requirements and the Council’s criteria. Even then, some applications may still be declined where essential services, skills or statutory responsibilities need to be maintained.

If I express an interest in voluntary redundancy, do I need to give my reasons why

No you don’t need to provide personal reasons. The assessment is based on the role and the organisational criteria, not the individual.

If I apply, but my application is not accepted, will this affect my future employment

Not at all, applying for VR is voluntary, and if your request isn’t approved, it won’t impact your employment, development or how you are treated at work.

Can I withdraw my application

Yes you can withdraw at any point before formally accepting an offer of VR.

If I apply for voluntary redundancy, and it is accepted, can I apply for other roles and come back and work at Cumberland Council in the future

Due to the significant costs associated with the VR scheme, and the Council’s duty to demonstrate that the use of public money is justified, if an employee leaves the Council by way of voluntary redundancy they will not be permitted to be re-engaged (whether permanent, temporary or fixed term) by the Council for a period of 12 months from the date of Termination. 

If a former employee applies for employment, after at least 12 months from their termination date, the matter will be referred to HR for a decision. 

Each case will be considered on its merits, having regard to the business needs of the Council at the time of the application. The criteria will be objective criteria related to the VR process and the decision will be final.