More than 500 jobs set to go at Direct Line

MORE than 500 jobs are set to be lost in the region as a result of restructuring at insurer Direct Line.

The company said it is in consultation to close a site in Liverpool, employing 485 people, while around 80 posts will be lost at the 900-strong operation on Quay Street in Manchester.

The insurer’s Liverpool site is at Cavern Court, Mathew Street, in the city centre.

Steve Maddock, managing director, claims at Direct Line Group, said:
“The proposed closure of our Liverpool claims centre was not an easy decision to make and we understand the effect this announcement has on our people.  We have now commenced a period of consultation with those potentially affected and they will be supported by their employee representative bodies.

“While this is currently a proposal, the plan is not immediate. In the months to follow we aim to do as much a possible to mitigate the impact of potential redundancy through redeployment and by working with employers in the local area to identify opportunities.

“We have first-hand experience of successful redeployment and are committed to doing our utmost to help our people through this difficult time.  We will ensure that our people have the best advice and assistance in seeking new opportunities.”

Direct Line, until last year part of RBS Group, said its cost cutting programme would affect around 2,000 employees nationwide.

The proposed cuts affect about 14% of its 14,400 staff. Direct Line has already cut 1,200 jobs since August 2012. As well as Direct Line, the insurer owns the Churchill and Green Flag brands.

Chief executive Paul Geddes said: “We have not made these proposed changes lightly and understand the impact they will have on our people,” he added