Library staff have been told they are at risk of redundancy.

Last month it was announced that John Laing Integrated Services (JLIS), who had originally been awarded an eight year contract to run the borough’s libraries, was taken over by facilities management company Carillion.

Members of staff at the libraries were not informed of the sale and only realised a change had taken place when their emails changed.

Staff have since been told there will be a ‘restructuring’ taking place and in a meeting this morning with Carillion bosses, staff were made aware that redundancies are possible.

Carillion have today confirmed a restructure would be taking place and jobs would be at risk.

A spokesman said: “As a result of significant developments in the way that local library services are now managed, Cultural Community Solutions has today announced proposals for a new integrated staffing structure.

“This will enable us to continue to deliver high quality library services across four London boroughs and ensure a sustainable future for the libraries.

“The proposed changes will take advantage of new technology and ways of working and will focus on streamlining back room functions.

“The new structure will protect opening hours and frontline roles as well as creating a number of new positions to focus on the delivery of community outreach and engagement to ensure the library services are accessible to all our communities.

“Regrettably these proposed changes will put a number of jobs at risk, but we are making every effort to ensure that these losses will be no more than one full time post per library.

"We will also explore opportunities for redeployment across our wider business. We have now started a period of consultation with all affected staff and their recognised unions.”

More updates to follow.

 

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