2,000 jobs under threat at Npower call centre in Sunderland

  • Our reporter Amy Lea has the latest

Two thousand jobs could be at risk in Sunderland, just weeks before Christmas.

Energy giant Npower has announced plans to restructure its UK business, which union sources fear will lead to the loss of up to 4,500 jobs and the closure of a number of call centres.

The firm employs 2,000 staff at their call centre in Houghton-le-Spring.

It's understood workers will be given details at briefings later on Friday.

The news was described as a “body blow” by one union official, especially coming just weeks before Christmas.

Chris Jukes from GMB Union Northern Region confirmed they are doing 'all they can' to support staff at Npower in Houghton le Spring, Sunderland. Today he said, "There is some real trauma in that building behind me".

Jonathan Walker, assistant director of policy, North East England Chamber of Commerce said:

Npower’s owners E.ON said it is in discussion with British unions Credit: PA

E.ON, the owner of Npower, said it was stepping up its "ambitious cost-cutting efforts" without losing sight of its customers, adding: "This is based on leaner, increasingly digital processes that also improve the customer experience."

An E.ON spokesman said: "It is only right and fair that colleagues are informed first of any possible changes and we will be making no further comment at this time."