Jobs at risk over Axa outsource

More than 350 jobs at Axa could be at risk after the second biggest insurer in Europe announced proposals to outsource work.

Union officals at Unite said it was concerned that staff in Basingstoke, Bristol and Coventry will be affected.

It follows Capita being selected as a preferred bidder to administer 3.2 million mature life and pensions policies.

It is thought the cuts could be spread over five years following the transfer.

We have ongoing concerns regarding the impact this outsourcing will have on our members David Kennedy, Unite

Capita said it was not able to rule out long-term redundancies but will try to minimise compulsory lay-offs.

A spokesman for Unite said they will urge Axa to redeploy staff at risk to other roles.

Regional officer David Kennedy said: "Unite has been in consultation with Axa over this for some time, although it has only recently become clear that the intention is to go with the outsourcing option.

"We have ongoing concerns regarding the impact this outsourcing will have on our members.

"We are currently negotiating with Axa to secure additional guarantees that go beyond the minimum required by the TUPE (protection of employment) legislation."

In November, shares in Axa sunk 15% after the firm cut its profit forecasts blaming market turmoil.

But Axa Sun Life chief executive Paul Evans said the partnership allowed the company to focus resources.

"I am confident that this proposed partnership will provide real benefits for our customers and our business."