UNION leaders have attacked plans to fully reopen jobcentres from today, warning it risks further outbreaks of coronavirus.

The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) said it would not rule out industrial action unless a “just settlement” can be agreed.

The union said returning to pre-lockdown opening hours for jobcentres in England, Wales and Scotland will lead to a huge increase in face-to-face appointments for people claiming Universal Credit and other benefits.

The move threatens “unnecessarily risks”, especially as staff were delivering services to claimants successfully, working from home, said the union.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “This reckless move by ministers is wholly unnecessary and risks putting both claimants and job centre staff in harm’s way.

“Staff have been doing an incredible job delivering key services such as Universal Credit and helping those most in need, access the assistance they require, throughout the pandemic.

“It is counterproductive and arrogant for ministers to risk staff and the wider public’s health by resuming normal jobcentre opening hours before the vaccine is fully rolled out and when these services are being successfully delivered from home.

“The anger of our members is palpable and we are not ruling out strike action, until a just settlement is found.”

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: “Throughout this pandemic, jobcentres have remained open to ensure we can continue to provide vital support to the most vulnerable.

“Our return to full opening hours will enable us to provide even more help and support to those who need us.

“We take the health and safety of colleagues extremely seriously, and are absolutely committed to ensuring all our sites remain Covid secure in line with Public Health England and Government guidance to keep colleagues and customers safe.”