British steel jobs: how to prepare for the future in a time of uncertainty

There’s a lot of uncertainty around job cuts in the metals industry at the moment…

Are you concerned about proposed British Steel jobs cuts? If so, here’s everything you need to know – including how to secure your future in the British steel industry…

• How many British Steel jobs are getting cut?
• Why are British Steel jobs getting cut?
• When will British Steel jobs get cut?
• How to safeguard your job security in the steel industry

How many British Steel jobs are getting cut?

Big players in the British steel industry are facing tough decisions. British Steel, one of Europe’s leading steel manufacturers, is weighing up job cuts to significant numbers of the workforce.

The numbers differ between reports, with some saying that up to 1,200 jobs are at risk across the company’s operations. That’s more than a quarter of the current workforce, which stands at around 4,500 employees.

In Scunthorpe alone, up to 300 jobs are on the line as plans to close the plant’s coke ovens move forwards. And, according to the union Unite, there’s talk of reassessing another 900 across the business.

Why are British Steel jobs getting cut?

The British Steel jobs cuts come in the wake of “unsatisfactory” support packages from the government.

British Steel’s parent company, Jingye, was recently offered £300 million in support. So too was Indian-owned competitor company, Tata Steel. This at a time when the steel industry has to contend with soaring energy prices and production costs, as well as ambitious decarbonisation objectives.

Now, though, with hundreds of jobs on the line, even this supposedly insufficient sum is in doubt; the offer of support was contingent on Jingye guaranteeing job security for its workforce.

But the reality is that investment in British steel works is urgently needed. As it stands, global demand for steel is on the rise and, unlike every other G20 country, UK steel production is falling.

Funds are also needed to facilitate the transition to low-carbon, electric arc blast furnaces, which could cost billions.

Steel production currently accounts for 8% of global carbon emissions. If the industry is to achieve 95% emissions reduction from steelmaking by 2050, investment will need to come sooner rather than later.

When will British Steel jobs get cut?

As it stands, there has not yet been a formal consultation on the proposed job cuts at British Steel, and a schedule has yet to be outlined.

According to Community, the union that supports British steelworkers, they are planning to fight the plan in its early stages.

Right now, though, all we know for sure is that the coming weeks and months will be critical. Many steelworkers will be anxiously waiting to hear whether their jobs are safe – and wondering what to do if not.

Thankfully, there are solutions for skilled steelworkers.

How to safeguard your job security in the steel industry

Steel is an essential industry, and one that plays a key part in the British economy.

In other words, the country needs a steel industry workforce, and will continue to far into the future. This is especially true as the sector looks to revolutionise its ways of working and keep up with its decarbonisation commitments.

Still, this is a concerning time for steelworkers across the country.

So, what steps can you take to safeguard your job security amidst British Steel jobs cuts?

Partner with a recruitment firm that knows your industry and recognises your value. At Aspion Metals, we’re experienced in finding specialist steelworkers their ideal future role.

There’s a reason we have one of the best retention rates in the industry. Of all the people we place in new roles, 96% are still with that company 12 months later.

Want to know more?

Get in touch today to find out how we can find you your perfect fit for now and in the future:

Call us: 0333 360 1100 

Email us: info@aspion-sales.flywheelsites.com