“I’ve just been made redundant. I feel lost, anxious and unsure how to start again.”

Hey there,

Let’s start with the obvious: losing your job hits hard. There’s no sugarcoating it. It’s more than just a professional setback - it shakes routines, confidence, finances and even your sense of self. Feeling lost, anxious or unsure of what comes next is not just normal - it’s expected.

On the NABS Advice Line, we hear this all the time. Redundancy hits hard because it’s a loss on multiple levels. Grief, fear, frustration and self-doubt can all show up at once. And it’s okay to feel them. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in taking back some control.

So, where do you start?

1. Give yourself permission to feel

This is a genuine loss. Cry, rant, talk it out - whatever helps you process. Feeling emotional doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re human. Find the people who’ll validate your feelings.  Be exceptionally kind to yourself during this time.

2. Remember what you’re good at

Your skills, experience, and achievements haven’t vanished. Write them down; make a quick “wins list” of projects you loved, challenges you tackled, or feedback that made you proud. It’s not always easy to get started. Appraisals are sometimes a good place to find this stuff. You could ask yourself questions like: ‘How do I stay curious in my role?’ and ‘What gives me energy in the way I work?’

You could also ask a trusted friend or colleague what they see as your strengths; often, they’ll remind you of qualities you might overlook. Seeing your strengths on paper or hearing them reflected back can rebuild confidence and remind you that you have plenty to offer. 

3. Take tiny steps forward

You don’t have to have a full plan tomorrow. Start small: update your CV.  One of the best tips we’ve heard: think like the employer. They’re really just asking, ‘can this person do the job?’ Your CV doesn’t need to be your whole life story – just highlight the skills and experience that prove you can. 

Look into roles that excite you and explore training that could help. NABS’ Unleash Your Career workshops are a supportive way to plan your next steps – and to meet others going through the same thing.

If you need deeper support and a more individual approach, NABS offers confidential 1:1 coaching with experienced coaches who get what you’re going through. Going round in circles? These sessions give you space to talk things through, tackle what’s holding you back and work out a path that feels right for you.

And it’s always worth checking if your company offers career development/outplacement as part of your company’s redundancy process. 

4. Don’t go it alone

Isolation can make stress worse. Reach out to friends, colleagues or professional networks. Remember that NABS is here for you. Our Advice Line and workshops are all designed to help you feel supported while you rebuild. We also offer redundancy guides online 24/7, so you can get instant information whenever you need it.

We’re always encouraging people to make time for volunteering – even just a couple of hours a week. It’s a brilliant way to use your skills, meet new people and feel you’re still making a difference. And you never know what doors it might open. If you’re not sure where to start, think about what causes are closest to your heart – there’s bound to be a relevant charity/organisation/community initiative that needs you.

5. Look after yourself

Stress hits your mind and body. Eat well, move, sleep, and make time for things that bring you joy. Even small routines - a morning walk, a coffee break, or a favourite podcast - can create stability and calm. And if money worries are adding pressure, take a look at NABS’ financial wellbeing hub for practical tools and advice.

One more thing: redundancy doesn’t just affect you – the impact often spreads. Colleagues may feel unsettled or anxious, worried about their own roles or missing teammates. If you’re noticing that, it’s not your imagination; this process is tough on everyone.

Here’s the thing: redundancy does not define you. Many people in our industry are going through the same storm and you can navigate it. Step by step, day by day, things will start to feel manageable again.

NABS is in your corner. You’re not on your own. Our support is just a call or click away. It might not feel like it now but there is a path forward - and you don’t have to walk it alone.

With care,
The NABS Support Team