Access to company information

[Basstrom100]

I am moving from an employed to a self employed contract at work, after 15 years, as I’m told this is something they need to do. I have now found out that as I will be self employed I will no longer be allowed access to company info, even though I have a contract for services in place. Is this just a way of the company being difficult, as it feels i am being pushed out making the role impossible to do, without having to make me redundant and the cost this would incur.

[MrButton]

Before you sign your new contract you need to get some legal advice who specialise in employment law. Also contact CAB.

Not sure what “company information” means but it just sounds a bit dodgy.

[Lance]

That doesn’t sound right. If they want to get rid of you there are correct ways. This isn’t one of them.
As suggested go to citizens advice. Also don’t accept what they’re suggesting. Also don’t hang about you need to sort this.
Are you in a Union?
Do you have any legal cover with your house or car insurance?

Self employment or contracing is a choice you make. Not one you should be pushed into.

[CatOnMat]

Agree with the above - you need to take legal advice ASAP, particularly as things like constructive dismissal (look it up) may well need to be taken into consideration. Your legal adviser should also be able to look into other aspects of the situation as a key point of having a contract in place, whether of employment or for services, is that neither party can just change it unilaterally (although terms can be changed with sufficient notice in certain cases).

Good luck with it all!

[SueEllen]

If you cannot get a CAB appointment go and see an employment lawyer. Contact one tomorrow do not leave it. Most lawyers will give you a quick free consultation to see if you have a case. In your case what your employer is suggesting or has done to make you self-employed is illegal.

[washed up contractor]

I am moving from an employed to a self employed contract at work, after 15 years, as I’m told this is something they need to do. I have now found out that as I will be self employed I will no longer be allowed access to company info, even though I have a contract for services in place. Is this just a way of the company being difficult, as it feels i am being pushed out making the role impossible to do, without having to make me redundant and the cost this would incur.

Not to mention possible IR35 implications.

[poorautojobber]

I am moving from an employed to a self employed contract at work, after 15 years, as I’m told this is something they need to do. I have now found out that as I will be self employed I will no longer be allowed access to company info, even though I have a contract for services in place. Is this just a way of the company being difficult, as it feels i am being pushed out making the role impossible to do, without having to make me redundant and the cost this would incur.

What do you do may I ask? I wouldn't let them make you self employed without some advice. You'll be taxed like an employee with none of the benefits. Self-employed is a great lifestyle it's a choice you should make not be forced on you.
This sounds like they are trying to get round making you redundant by making you self-employed. For 15 years service that's 15 week's pay plenty to see you through finding a new job.

[northernladuk]

Not to mention possible IR35 implications.

No implication really. He's definitely inside.

[NotAllThere]

No implication really. He's definitely inside.

"IR35 implications" = "You'll be hit by IR35 and all that implies".

It's just that it's not possible IR35 implications - it's definite IR35 implications.

[malvolio]

Actually he has much bigger problems than IR35. Why is he being forced to take over his employer's responsibilities and costs...?