The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing significant backlash following its announcement of potential job redundancies affecting over 80 employees at the Lincoln City Hall site. This decision comes as the DWP prepares for the closure of the location, prompting the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) Union to initiate strike action from December 1, 2023, to January 2, 2024.
Union representatives have described this situation as a “new low” for the DWP, criticizing the department’s handling of the job cuts. Ian Fisher, chair of the PCS union branch, stated, “To announce redundancies only after the escalation of industrial action is a new low for the DWP, who have failed to have any empathy throughout this whole process.”
In response to the impending job losses, the DWP maintains that it is prioritizing redeployment opportunities for affected staff and has established a voluntary redundancy scheme. In a letter to employees, Rob Clarbour, the national services leader, acknowledged the distress caused by the situation. He assured staff that the DWP remains committed to supporting all impacted colleagues during this transition.
Despite these reassurances, the PCS has criticized the DWP for its previous denials of redundancy, which the union claims have only contributed to prolonged uncertainty and stress among employees. Fisher emphasized that many staff members prefer to retain their jobs rather than accept redundancy payouts, highlighting a strong desire for continued employment.
Fran Heathcote, a representative of the PCS, expressed concerns that dedicated employees are being “cast aside with little remorse” despite their years of service to the DWP. Bradley Wall, secretary of the Lincoln and District Trades Council, echoed these sentiments, stating that the decision to strike reflects “the strength, pride, and determination of Lincoln’s workforce.” He added, “Closing this office would be a betrayal, not just of the staff but of Lincolnshire itself.”
The DWP previously indicated that the changes are part of a broader strategy to consolidate operations, moving towards “fewer, larger, more economically viable sites.” This shift has raised questions about the department’s commitment to its workforce as it adapts to new operational models. As the situation unfolds, the impact on staff morale and local employment remains a critical concern.
