Unite is contacting its members at Glasgow East Woman’s Aid claiming they were not given any notice about the charity’s closure.

The union says the first its members heard that the domestic abuse charity had been placed in administration earlier this month “through media sources” adding that “no notification or consultation was afforded to the workers”.

“Unite can confirm that it is in the process of contacting its membership in order to progress protective award claims,” said the union.

“A protective award can be awarded where 20 or more employees are made redundant because an employer did not consult before any redundancy announcement. Employment tribunals can make various awards from 45 days to 90 days of full pay.”

The union understand that the reason for the charity’s closure is that public sector funding was “withheld and withdrawn”. It is also contacting Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government requesting “urgent clarity” about this claim.

It also understands that some of the charity’s services have been reallocated to other organisations providing similar support in Glasgow.

The potential legal action follows a period of upheaval in the charity’s relationship with the union.

Last November its members at the charity unanimously voted to strike amid staff sackings and allegations of bullying at the charity.

The union claimed that the dismissals of the five workers involved were “specifically linked to their trade union activities”.

“The mismanagement at Glasgow East Women’s Aid is one of the worst cases we have ever come across,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham.

“Make no mistake we will get to the bottom of this sorry mess, and we will fight for all our members to secure justice.”

Unite industrial officer Linda Wilson said: “The story of Glasgow East Women’s Aid over the last six months has been one of turmoil and chaos. Unite has protected and defended our members at all times, and we will continue to do so."

She added: “The actions of Glasgow East Women’s Aid regarding the lack of consultation is potentially illegal. Unite is contacting all our members to progress protective award claims being lodged against the organisation.”

In a statement Glasgow East Women’s Aid said: “We are deeply saddened by the closure of the organisation.

“Our priority at this difficult time is to ensure that women and children currently supported by Glasgow East Women’s Aid continue to receive the help and support they need, and that those who may need support in the future know where to turn.

“We will continue to liaise with partners, including the regulator, Care Inspectorate, funders, and the Council, throughout this difficult time.”

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