Police staff facing redundancy

Twenty-six police staff are now at risk of compulsory redundancy.

Greater Manchester Police Authority approved the issuing of redundancy notices at a meeting of the full Authority on Monday 30 April 2012 following a report from Greater Manchester Police outlining the outcomes following the statutory 90 day consultation period of the second review of the back office.

This review, which encompasses roles at GMP’s Headquarters, involves the reduction of 71 police staff posts and seven police officers posts.

With 76 vacancies across the Force, plus vacant call handler, radio operator and PCSO posts, every effort will be made to redeploy staff before the end of the three month notice period.

The seven police officers affected by the review will be redeployed to other roles.

Sharron Hardman, Independent Member and Chairwoman of the People and Development Committee, said: “Today we have approved the issuing of redundancy notices to 30 staff who carry out roles at GMP’s headquarters. We don’t underestimate the uncertainty and impact on staff and we will continue to work closely with the Force and trade unions to redeploy as many staff as possible so that those who want to remain with the organisation have the opportunity to do so.

“This is a very challenging time for the Police Authority and the Force as we find savings of £134M over four years. We have already delivered savings of more than £60M but we have a long way to go. We will continue to listen to staff and the public as we make difficult decisions and ensure we focus our limited resources in the most efficient and effective way.”

Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “We are determined to keep compulsory redundancies to an absolute minimum but we appreciate that this is a very difficult time for all the staff involved, who are dedicated to the service of the public and want to continue to work for GMP.”