Unions set to target call centres

With TUC general secretary John Monks branding call centres the Ônew mills of 21st century Britain', white collar unions are due to launch a recruitment drive in what is still a rapidly expanding sector.

Many call centres have been located in areas traditionally dominated by manufacturing industries, bringing in new investment and jobs. In many instances, the local population has responded well to the new employment challenge, despite an apparent mismatch in skillbase.

Call centre work is not without its difficulties, however, and with such complaints as stress and Ôrepetitive brain strain' unions expect this to be fertile ground. In addition, union leaders are attracted by the prospect of recruiting the comparatively young employees.

Elliott Chase