Displaced worker
A displaced worker, as defined by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in the UK, refers to a person who has been made redundant or has left their job due to circumstances beyond their control, such as business closure, company insolvency, or significant changes in the industry. This definition encompasses individuals who have been forced out of work through no fault of their own and are seeking re-employment.
In more detail, displaced workers may include those who:
- Have been made redundant due to organisational restructuring, downsizing, or closure
- Have left a job as a result of company insolvency or bankruptcy
- Are returning to the labour market after a period of caring for family members or other dependents
- Have been forced out of work due to changes in government policies, regulations, or laws affecting their industry
The term ‘displaced worker’ is often used interchangeably with ‘redundant worker’, although some may make a distinction between the two. However, both terms generally refer to individuals who have lost their employment through circumstances beyond their control and are seeking new work opportunities.
