Angus Council jobs could be at risk following the decision to embark on a new partnership with its Dundee City neighbours to deliver lifeline occupational therapy and nursing equipment to the area’s residents.
In a shake-up of the Angus Joint Equipment Loan Scheme (AJELS), the council has struck a joint arrangement which will see the equipment provided from a single base at Claverhouse on the outskirts of Dundee.
But the move may see some Angus posts go as the staffing arrangements for the new set-up are finalised.
The change follows the closure of Little Cairnie Hospital in Arbroath, where AJELS was previously based, and the collapse of a proposal to create a dedicated new-build facility.
In a report to social work and health councillors, Angus Council strategic director Margo Williamson said capital funding pressures and a move to integrated joint working had ruled out the prospect of a new AJELS facility as a viable option.
The director added: “Dundee City Council currently has a modern, fit for purpose store in their premises at Claverhouse on the Dundee/Angus border.
“The store is a joint arrangement between Dundee City Council and NHS Tayside which mirrors the arrangement Angus Council has with NHS Tayside in Little Cairnie.
“It would therefore be possible to combine the two arrangements into one store serving both Dundee and Angus residents.
“It is envisaged that such an arrangement could have long-term benefits for both Angus and Dundee in terms of spend on equipment as a result of economies of scale and bulk-buying power. It would also help to standardise the type and range of equipment provided by the two authorities.”
The report added: “The impact on existing staff is currently subject of ongoing discussions with options including transfer and possible secondment.
“Exact arrangements will be agreed as part of ongoing negotiations. It is recognised that if staff are not required under the new arrangement, the council’s managing workforce change policy would be adhered to and this may result in some one-off costs.”
Social work and health convener, Councillor Glennis Middleton admitted the move was the only option in the circumstances.
“This is the only deal in town and we don’t have any alternative,” she said.
Last month Angus councillors passed a budget which will see £10 million of savings made this year, with 170 jobs forecast to be lost across the council.