Dundee City Council launches voluntary redundancy scheme

Key Points

Dundee City Council has initiated a voluntary redundancy program for its non-teaching employees as a cost-cutting measure. The program will allow a limited number of eligible staff to retire or leave with potentially enhanced severance terms.

The council aims to reduce its workforce by up to 100 positions over the next two years, saving an estimated £2.4 million in 2025/26 and £4.3 million in 2026/27.

Eligibility and Details

• The scheme is open to non-teaching staff who meet the eligibility criteria, including two years of continuous service.
• Council officials expect the program to have a relatively small impact on the total headcount of over 6,000.

Political Commentary

Fraser Macpherson (Lib Dem) noted that voluntary severance schemes were proposed by all political groups within the council's budget. Kevin Keenan (Labour) said the scheme offers compensation to departing employees and aligns with budgetary pressures on local councils and the government.

Council Statement

The council acknowledges the challenging financial climate and the voluntary redundancy scheme as a tool to manage workforce size.