Mark Whitehead 02 August 2024

Union calls on Kirklees to reverse customer service centre closures

Union calls on Kirklees to reverse customer service centre closures image
Image: Alastair Wallace/shutterstock.com

Unison has called on Kirklees Council to reverse its 'disastrous' decision to close customer service centres.

The council announced in February that two centres in Huddersfield and Dewsbury would close and be integrated into Kirklees' libraries.

The union warned the move could have a negative impact on elderly and vulnerable residents.

The council said demand for the services had fallen and reassured residents they would still be able to access the support needed.

The decision to close the customer service centres comes as part of the council's cost-saving measures and could affect up to 40 jobs.

In February the authority said it needed to save more than £47m to avoid having to declare itself effectively bankrupt.

Dewsbury's customer services team had already moved into the town's library due to maintenance works at its original site.

Unison branch secretary Mick Donoghue told a council meeting of the negative impact the closures and service changes would have on domestic abuse victims and other vulnerable people.

A petition with more than 2,000 signatures has also been submitted calling on the council to reverse its decision.

A council spokesperson said it had observed an increase in people accessing services online since the pandemic.

'The new offer will mean customers can still be enabled to access the support they need – online or in person- but this will be from within the libraries staff team.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Financial Assessment Officer (Adult Social Care)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Shape outcomes across two leading London councils as a Financial Assessment Officer, delivering vital support that makes a real difference to residents' lives. England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

No Wrong Door Team Manager – (Registered Children’s Home Manager)

North Yorkshire Council
£53,051 to £57,372 per annum
You will provide inspiring leadership, management and direction to staff, ensuring our culture, values and practice model Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Occupational Therapist

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Be part of a long-term complex occupational team that cares about patients and cares about you In Kensington and Chelsea, we support people's independence and wellbeing and work hard to enable them to live in the community with dignity, choice and cont England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Property Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,427 to £27,709 p.a. (Grade 4)
An opportunity has arisen within Corporate Property and Land for a part time, permanent Property Assistant based at Aycliffe Secure Centre in Newton A Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Community Wellbeing Assistant

Durham County Council
£27,274 - £29,542
Temporary until March 2028  2 x 15 hours posts   Wellbing Sport and leisure are looking for 2 x 15 hours Wellbeing Assistant to join their team in th Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner