Jobs at risk at one of town's biggest employers

Jobs are under threat at one of Haywards Heath's largest employers.

Insurance firm 1st Central - which employs more than 600 people at its head office in the town - is transferring a number of roles to Glasgow.

But, the firm said this week, its head office will remain in Haywards Heath.

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A spokesman said: “We have recently undertaken a review of our operating model to secure a successful future for 1st Central’s growth which ensures that we will have the right people in the right places.

“This review affects 45 people whose roles will be transferring to our contact centre partner based in Glasgow.”

Hoewever, 1st Central says it is also recruiting for 39 vacancies across different departments in Haywards Heath.

The spokesman said: “With 39 roles that need to be filled in Haywards Heath, we’re hoping to secure them other positions internally where possible, or support them in finding roles elsewhere in the local area.

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“We’re also offering a number of outplacement activities such as support with CV writing and interview skills, and hosting local companies and recruitment agencies to talk through the roles they have available.

The spokesman added: “1st Central has a strong presence in the local community and continues to be one of the largest employers in Haywards Heath, which is where our head office will remain.”

Meanwhile, the firm’s UK chief executive officer Andy James said: “1st Central is a close-knit community where people know each other across many teams. Taking care of those affected by this change is our first priority.”