www.iva.co.uk

Are you all aware that you could lose your job having an IVA. I have worked for large legal firm for 31 years!!!!! A while back all the staff were asked to fill in a personal questionnaire. An outside company sent us a 15 page detailed questionnaire covering have you a police record, bankruptcy etc..... I wa called in to the head of Personnel topday to be told my job and position is at risk, because I am 5 years into my IVA. Apparently I am high risk to the company.I work with no client monies or cash and have been in the same department for 31 years with a good record. I am at my wits end and before I took out the IVA it was never mentioned by the providers that this could happen...... What can I do now ?????

IVA providers cannot be responsible for the views and actions of shortsighted employers. It is common knowledge that an IVA, possibly, and bankruptcy certainly can affect employment, but, it seems, some employers apply discriminatory practices regardless.

With regard to risk, being in an IVA makes you far less of a risk than the chap in the next desk who might be up to his neck in debt and struggling !

I would ask them to point out where, in your contract of employment and agreed terms and conditions, an adverse regard towards IVAs is mentioned.

Especially given that your t&cs may be years old and not have been updated.

I agree with Foggy - check your employment contract.

In any event if this is really an issue why was it not raised when you started?

If their terms changed over the course of your employment and this clause was introduced then why were all staff not written to at the time the terms changed?

Something does not seem right here. How are they suggesting termination - redundancy?

Suggest you get a Union rep or (rival) firm of specialist employment solicitor to help you given the seriousness of the issue.

As others have said check your terms and conditions of employment.

Do you have a union rep at all?

A case for unfair dismissal if they try to push you out.

Paul