WESTMINSTER plans to axe Jobcentres throughout Scotland are “poorly thought out” and have caused “needless uncertainty” for staff and users, MPs have found.
A report by the Scottish Affairs Committee is calling for a review of the decision to slash centre numbers in Glasgow and beyond. Half of the city’s 16 sites are to go under money-saving plans, as well as others throughout the country.
The report found current proposals “demonstrate a lack of strategic thinking and would not provide an adequate service” and says a full evaluation must be carried out based on geography and transport infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the government is urged to work more closely with unions to reassure staff and provide clarity for those affected by the changes.
Committee chair Pete Wishart said: “Nothing in this policy backs up the UK Government’s insistence that it is a result of carefully thought out, long-term planning and not just an opportunistic cost-cutting exercise. Their treatment of staff, service users and colleagues in the Scottish Government fell short of what should be expected.
“When a staggered series of closure announcements begins with eight in one city, it is only going to create uncertainty and resentment.
“It is also a worrying sign that they did not feel it necessary to inform the Scottish Government. This must not be repeated as they look to build a working relationship on welfare powers. We urge the Government to look at this policy again and come back with a coherent solution that works for the people who use the service.”
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