BT introduces measures to ease the pain of job losses

BT announced a further 15,000 job losses this year - on top of the 15,000 already disclosed. However, the company confirmed it would take special measures to soften the blow for employees.

The telecommunications firm said 10,000 of the jobs lost would be contractors and Ian Livingstone, chief executive, said BT is working to avoid compulsory redundancies. “Around 5,000 people go every year, anyway, through retirement,” he said.

For those losing their jobs, BT offers a package including access to outsourcing services. It is also providing training to enable employees to be redeployed. Livingstone said that the company was working with unions to bring in flexible shift working options such as allowing more staff to work in the evenings.