Staff and local residents will lobby Somerset Council today (Wednesday) over devastating cuts to jobs and public services, says UNISON.
The council’s proposed restructure includes cutting 555 jobs as it makes £32.5 million savings.
UNISON has repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of detail in consultation documents, particularly for an uncosted ‘transformation’ plan and the absence of clear strategies for IT and artificial intelligence.
The council’s decision to press ahead with redundancies before publishing properly funded proposals could leave remaining staff overwhelmed and vital services at breaking point, UNISON says.
UNISON South West regional organiser Helen Eccles said: “The council’s failure to present a properly costed plan before cutting jobs is reckless and short-sighted. Services that people rely on such as social care, libraries, and waste collection will be undermined drastically if staff are stretched beyond capacity.
“Somerset deserves a council that can deliver what’s needed for the community and protect vital jobs. Not one that rushes through damaging cuts without a clear plan.
“Councillors must listen to the concerns of staff and residents before it’s too late.”
