Are you an employee in Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, or anywhere else across the North West facing a major career decision?
If your employer has offered you a ‘MARS’ Settlement Agreement—a Mutually Agreed Resignation Scheme—you are at a critical crossroads. While it might feel like a straightforward path to an amicable exit with a financial package, it is a legally binding document that could impact your future.
As expert employment law advisors in the North West, Employee Settlements (0345 257 9919) is here to ensure you don’t sign away your rights for less than you deserve.
What Exactly is a MARS Settlement Agreement?
A Mutually Agreed Resignation Scheme (MARS) is a voluntary severance package offered by employers, often in the public sector (like the NHS) or large organisations undergoing restructuring in areas like Greater Manchester, Lancashire, or Merseyside.
It’s an incentive for employees to voluntarily resign in exchange for an enhanced financial package.
Crucially, a MARS Agreement is formalised in a Settlement Agreement. This is the document where you legally agree to waive your right to bring most claims (such as Unfair Dismissal or Discrimination) against your employer in an Employment Tribunal.
Why You MUST Get Independent Legal Advice
This is the most critical takeaway: A MARS Settlement Agreement is not legally valid unless you have received independent legal advice on its terms and effect.
Your employer will pay a contribution towards your legal fees for this specific purpose. This means getting expert, local advice from Employee Settlements should cost you nothing out of your own pocket.
Here is what an independent solicitor in the North West will do for you:
- Explain the Legal Jargon: Settlement Agreements are complex, often containing 10-20 pages of dense legal clauses. We translate the jargon into plain English so you fully understand what you are agreeing to.
- Assess the Offer’s Fairness: Is the financial compensation reasonable given your length of service, potential claims, and the current legal landscape in 2025? We compare the offer to what you might be awarded at a Tribunal.
- Negotiate Better Terms: In many cases, we can negotiate a better package, whether it’s an improved financial sum, a clearer reference, or the removal of overly restrictive covenants (like non-compete clauses).
- Review Post-Employment Obligations: The agreement will likely contain clauses on confidentiality, non-derogatory comments, and the return of company property. We ensure these are fair and won’t hinder your future career prospects in cities like Chester or Preston.
- Ensure Tax Efficiency: We review how the payments are structured to make sure you benefit from the tax-free status on the first £30,000 of the severance payment (where applicable).
Time is of the Essence: Your Next Steps
While your employer may suggest a swift turnaround, remember you have a right to take time to consider the offer. Typically, you should be given at least 10 calendar days. Do not feel pressured to sign immediately!
Your Action Plan:
- Do Not Agree the package just yet: Do not agree the MARS Settlement Agreement until you have spoken to a legal expert.
- Contact a Specialist: Call Employee Settlements today on 0345 257 9919. We are specialists in MARS Settlement Agreements and can often provide a rapid, efficient service, sometimes on the very same day.
- Secure Your Financial Future: Let us review the agreement, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you leave your employment with the best possible outcome.
We offer flexible advice via telephone or video call, making it easy to access expert legal support whether you are based in Bolton, Wigan, Liverpool, or Manchester City Centre.
Ready to talk? Get expert advice that pays for itself.
Don’t go through this process alone. Your employer has a lawyer; so should you.
Contact Employee Settlements today for independent, confidential advice:
Call Now: 0345 257 9919
Expert Insight: “A few hours of specialist legal advice can be the difference between accepting a standard exit package and securing thousands of pounds more, along with protecting your long-term professional reputation.”