Redundancies proposed at Durex and Dettol maker

Consumer goods giant Reckitt has announced plans for redundancies at its research and development facility in Hull.

Reckitt, which was founded in the city in 1840 as Reckitt & Sons, said the move was part of "proposed structural changes" within the organisation to improve efficiency.

The firm, which is behind health and hygiene brands including Dettol and Durex, said it would "create vacancies at a similar scale" to mitigate any job losses.

The union Unite said it would be holding Reckitt to its word that workers would be redeployed.

Reckitt declined to say how many workers could be affected by the proposals.

In a statement, the firm said: "Globally, Reckitt is reshaping itself as a simpler, more efficient organisation.

"This includes proposed structural changes that will affect some roles in the UK R&D business.

"However, our proposals also include vacancies at a similar scale. Redeploying affected staff will be our priority."

In response, Unite regional officer Mick Simpson said: "Reckitt's announcement is unsettling for staff and Unite will be offering full support for our members.

"The union will be shortly entering into consultations with the company."

Mr Simpson said the union was seeking assurances that workers would be redeployed with the same pay and in the same location, and that there would be no compulsory redundancies.

Reckitt, formerly known as Reckitt Benckiser, has its headquarters in Slough, Berkshire, and employs around 5,000 people in the UK and Ireland.

In 2019, Reckitt opened a £105m science and innovation centre in Dansom Lane, Hull. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited the site last Friday.

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