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

Procurement & Contracts Officer - Epping Council

Essex County Council
Up to £21.0100 per hour
Procurement & Contracts Officer - Epping Forest District Council Epping, EssexFull-Time, Temporary - 37 Hours per Week 2-3 Month Contract £21.01 PAYE England, Essex
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Commercial and Operations Manager

Mansfield District Council
£12,098 - £13,756 per annum
This is a part-time opportunity, working alongside a part-time fellow manager of the same title. Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council

Plumber/Gas Fitter

Mansfield District Council
£32,373, per annum plus £484 tool allowance
We have an exciting opportunity to join our Housing Repairs Team Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council

Highway Asset Manager (Contracts)

Devon County Council
£58,310 per annum
Are you experienced in delivering large-scale infrastructure programmes that keep communities connected and safe? Devon
Recuriter: Devon County Council

Senior Care and Housing Support Officer

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Band D, SCP 9 -17 (£27,254 - £31,022 per annum)
Are you enthusiastic about making a difference in the lives of older adults? Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Linkedin Banner