CONCERNS have been raised over plans to change the roles of janitors at Renfrewshire’s primary schools.

It is understood that Renfrewshire Council recently informed primary school janitorial staff they would soon need to take on extra tasks alongside their current duties.

Kilbarchan resident Steve Cartwright, whose granddaughter attends the village’s primary school, said older janitors are being pushed into taking voluntary redundancy as a result of the council’s decision.

“Many janitors are being effectively forced out of their jobs,” he told The Gazette.

“The janitor at my granddaughter’s school told me she’s going to have to take voluntary redundancy in February because she can’t take on any more work.

“She doesn’t think there is a chance of getting another job at the age of 54 and I’ve spoken to another primary school janitor in Johnstone who is in the same boat.”

Mr Cartwright also fears a potential reduction of janitorial staff at primary schools could have an impact on the safety of pupils and parents.

He said: “The janitor at Kilbarchan Primary is out very early in the morning to salt the pavements and school grounds.

“She also makes sure the children are safely getting on and off the school bus every day, as well as ensuring the grounds are tidy and everything is maintained properly.

“I think the kids’ safety is going to be put at risk as a result of this attempt to save money, especially at this time of the year, with all the ice we’ve been having.”

A council spokesperson said it is working with staff and consulting with trade unions to review services as part of the Right for Renfrewshire programme.

“There have been no compulsory redundancies across the council,” added the spokesperson.

“Voluntary redundancy or early retirement has been made available in some service areas but it is up to the staff member if they wish to apply for this.

“Any staff member whose role changes will be provided with training and given all the support necessary to assist them in their role.

“We will continue to deliver all current services within schools and we will ensure that all staff are supported to deliver these services.”