Broadcaster Sky to close three call centres, putting 2,000 northern jobs at risk

Sky, the owner of Sky News, has announced 2,000 jobs at its customer service centres are at risk.

It said that in addition to the proposed closure of the Stockport, Sheffield and Leeds Central contact centres, the operations at Dunfermline and Newcastle would also be affected.

The company said its proposals, including the closure of three UK sites, would affect seven per cent of its overall workforce and were currently subject to consultation.

The group said it planned a multimillion-pound investment in its Livingston site to create a “centre of excellence” as it sought to adapt to changing customer habits through the use of technology amid declining call volumes.

A spokesperson said: “We’re transforming our business to deliver quicker, simpler, and more digital customer service.

“Our customers increasingly want choice, to speak to us on the phone when they need us most and the ease of managing everyday tasks digitally.

“We’re investing in a new centre of excellence for customer service, alongside cutting-edge digital technology to make our service seamless, reliable, and available 24/7.”

They added: “This is about building a future-ready Sky that continues to put our customers and their needs first.”

It is understood that the entertainment and telecoms company, owned by US-based Comcast, currently receives 25 million calls from its customers across Europe each year.

That is expected to ease by a third over the coming few years.

Sky further believed that the focus on digital-based communications investment would improve service for its customer base.

The company said it had received feedback from subscribers urging greater choice, adding that “thousands of expert advisors will continue to provide personalised support on the phone when it matters most.”

When Sky first opened in Stockport the office was the first build Grade A in the town and was a symbol of the start of the town’s resurgence.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, expressed shock at the news and said: “We are shocked and deeply concerned by the sudden announcement that Sky is closing its call centre in Stockport — without warning — leaving local jobs, families, and our economy facing an unexpected and significant blow.

“There was no prior indication of this decision, making it all the more alarming. Our immediate priority is to understand the full implications of this decision and to support those affected.

“I am urgently seeking a meeting at the highest levels with Sky’s leadership to discuss their rationale, explore any possible alternatives, and ensure they fulfil their responsibilities to their employees and our community.

“I will be looking to work closely with our local MPs and the Greater Manchester Mayor to push for meaningful support for affected workers and to explore new opportunities for investment and employment in Stockport.

“Stockport is a thriving hub for business and innovation, and we stand with our workers, and we will do everything in our power to secure a positive outcome for them and for our town.”