only happened once and then my employer didn't actually have the decency to even tell me as I was on holiday
That at the very worst shit, I'm not sure that's even legal!
Have you thought about redundancy insurance if it looks like it may happen in the future,
Yup! My last provider withdrew from the market just as covid was kicking off. Everyone stopped selling it.
But I have had new cover since August 21. It isn't that cheap at £55 a month, but as someone who stresses its the best what I hope is a waste of money I can think of. It'll pay the mortgage and I think energy bill (as of now). A few hoops to go through to get it (and exclusion) but anyway...
Likewise, albeit it was a pain in the arse for about 5 months being on the dole and trying to claim benefits to pay my rent and live, whilst also trying to sort out statutory redundancy payment from the government!
I had six months out during the banking crisis crash. It is soul destroying to want to work, to know you have something to offer but not get one - to be fair I was aiming for a particular industry/skill (software engineer) but if it came to it I'd do anything to provide for the family.
But people who use the "cushy life on benefits" tag line - I doubt they've spent much time trying it*
*ok there are some "careeer benefits" people.