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

Social Worker/Senior Social Worker - Safeguarding and Care Planning (SCP)

Middlesbrough Council
£36,581 - £45,529 (plus 15% market supplement once ASYE is completed)
As part of our ongoing improvement journey, we have invested significantly in creating the right environment for social workers to flourish. Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: Middlesbrough Council

Learning Support Assistant

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5, point 4 £26,016 pro-rata
You will be an excellent support to the class teacher and pupils Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Receptionist/Administration Assistant

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5, £26,016 - £26,847 pro-rata
The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator with both children and adults Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Sixth Form Administrator

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5 £23,096 - £25,010 pro rata
You will provide comprehensive operational and administrative support to the Head of Sixth Form and pastoral staff. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Assistant Principal

City Of Doncaster Council
L3 to L7 £56,298 to £62,251 per annum
You will play a pivotal role in the strategic leadership and daily management of our school. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council
Linkedin Banner