BT’s announcement that it does not intend to implement a pay increase for managers in 2020 is premature and made without prior discussion with Prospect on alternatives.

The union said the announcement on 6 April was unwelcome and extremely disappointing given the enormous contribution Prospect members in BT and Openreach are making to keep the UK connected at this time of national crisis.

BT said that given the tough trading conditions and economic pressures brought about by the unprecedented nature of the pandemic, it would not be appropriate to award a pay rise at this point.

However, the company still plans to pay a bonus to managers, with further details on this in June. Team members will be receiving an increase of 1.5% from July 2020.

National secretary John Ferrett said: “We fully understand that BT is not insulated from the economic impacts and recognise the effect that COVID-19 is having on company revenues.

“Indeed, the union has pledged to work with the company to ensure business continuity while safeguarding members’ jobs.

“Our members are doing vital work for the company, whether line-managing front line workers or in supporting the direct delivery of the business.

“So we welcome BT’s commitment not to shed any jobs over the next three months as a result of COVID-19.

“Unfortunately, the company is still insisting on making a small number of people redundant, where consultation was already underway before the lockdown was announced. 

“Therefore, we call again on BT to pause any redundancy programmes and to work with us to find alternative work for those who wish to remain in the business.

“We will also be seeking a commitment that no new consultations will be launched while the UK is still in lockdown.” Ferrett concluded.

In the meantime, the union will continue its campaign to show the company and the wider public how Prospect members are working hard to keep all parts of the UK connected in these difficult times.

If you have a story to share with union colleagues, or would like to join the debate on current issues in BT, please follow us on Workplace: 

https://bt.workplace.com/groups/ProspectUnion/

https://openreach.workplace.com/groups/1404567416378943/

If you are happy to share your story more widely please email [email protected] with the subject line ”Keeping the UK connected".