Redundancies may be unavoidable in this economic climate, but third sector employers now have an affordable way to support displaced employees as they move on. Human resources services provider Roots HR CIC has launched 'ADAPT', a range of services tailored to suit the third sector, that helps employers, redundant employees and 'survivors' left in an organisation to cope with the necessary changes. 

These services are known in the corporate world as outplacement services. They are paid for by an outgoing employer and have been shown to improve morale, motivation and productivity during times of change, helping line managers to shed staff with a clearer conscience and employees to move on with a more positive attitude. 

Jan Golding, Managing Director or Roots HR explains: "No-one likes having to make redundancies and the whole process can be highly detrimental to an organisation if handled badly. Experience tells us that not-for-profit employers are likely to want to be supportive of their staff, but will either not be aware of outplacement services, or will think them too corporate or too expensive for them.

"As specialists in people management in the not-for-profit and social enterprise sector, our consultants are particularly familiar with third sector roles and career paths, organisational culture and employment practices, so are able to offer appropriate support. They can work at all levels from frontline staff to the most senior employee and will consider and assess the level of emotional support required as well as the practical aspects of support." 

Roots HR is offering a range of fixed-cost ADAPT packages, as well as bespoke group and on-site sessions tailored to the needs of individual organisations.  

For employees who wish to move on to other employment, ADAPT services include: helping employees gain insight into their strengths and development areas; assessing their options; recognising and maximising transferrable skills, knowledge and experience; CV updating; one to one sessions for practical skills such as how best to apply for jobs online, how to write an effective application, how to answer interview questions and even how to turn a redundancy into a better role with the next employer.  

For those who want to take the opportunity to do something different, ADAPT consultants can help employees explore options such as self employment, starting a business or social enterprise, a career break, change of sector, or even retirement. 

ADAPT packages start from £150 per employee and are available immediately for organisations currently undertaking redundancy consultations with employees. The bespoke service is ideal for organisations dealing with a number of job losses over a period of time that wish to support both those who are leaving and those who remain.