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.'

Devolutions clean air dividend image

Devolution's clean air dividend

Jane Burston of Clean Air Fund argues that tackling air pollution is one of the clearest ways for local leaders to prove devolution can transform lives.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Multi Trade Carpenter

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Carry out high-quality repairs that keep our homes safe and well maintained England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

Social Worker - Social Services Team (Huddersfield Royal Infirmary)

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£38,220 - £44,075
Looking to appoint as a Level 2 or Level 3 Social Worker. Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Apprentice Registration Officer – AI and Automation.

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£24,796 - £25,583
Are you organised, accurate and compassionate, with strong IT skills and an interest in how digital tools Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Senior Engineer (Flood Management & Land Drainage)

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£29,540 to £37,280
Kirklees Council is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Senior Engineer to join our Flood Risk Management & Land Drainage Team. Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

ICT Support Technician

Mansfield District Council
£28,598 - £33,699
We are looking for an enthusiastic, professional, and experienced systems support technician Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council
Linkedin Banner