Orange to shut Bristol call centre

Orange to shut Bristol call centre and axe 300 jobs
Mobile phone company Orange has told staff that it is closing a call centre in Bristol with the loss of 300 jobs.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) said some workers broke down in tears when they were told.

The CWU spokesman said: "People have struggled into work through appalling weather only to be told they are losing their jobs."

Orange said redundancy packages and support in finding alternative work would be available for those affected.

'Most efficient'

A spokesman for the company said: "As part of our strategy to improve, grow and evolve the company, we are continually looking at ways to ensure we are operating in the most efficient way.

"As such, we have been reviewing our building strategy and are proposing not to renew the lease for Keypoint, one building on our office campus in Bristol.

"The affected staff will be relocated to other Orange buildings in Bristol, relevant to the division of the business they work for.

"However, with no other 'service operation' in Bristol, staff from that division will be offered an opportunity to apply for work and a relocation package in our other service centres across the UK.

"For those service employees who do not wish to seek roles elsewhere in the business, redundancy packages will be available and employees will receive full support in finding alternative work."

Orange closed the centre for the day as staff were so upset.

The nearest Orange call centre to Bristol is in Plymouth.