Employees usually have the strongest protection: after two years’ continuous service, they may qualify for statutory redundancy pay, and they are generally entitled to notice and a fair consultation. Fixed-term employees can have similar rights, although the contract’s end date and reason for ending it can matter; two years’ service is normally needed for statutory redundancy pay. Genuine self-employed contractors usually do not have employee redundancy rights, but their legal status depends on how they work in practice, not just the contract wording. Rules in Northern Ireland differ, so check the relevant GOV.UK or nidirect guidance, or speak to an employment solicitor regulated by the SRA.