Cross-Solent operator Red Funnel says that delays and cancellations are a ‘last resort’, but that they have to meet legal requirements at a time when up to 20% of the workforce is off sick.
Despite higher levels than normal of recruitment, absence levels including those related to COVID-19 have been as high as 20% in recent weeks across Red Funnel’s operational staff. This has led to reduced service levels due to the lack of critical crew members being available.
Addressing the reduced service levels, Leanna Lakes, Operations Director at Red Funnel said:
“On board our ferries, we are required by law to have a certain number of critical roles to ensure the safety of passengers, and our vessels are not permitted to sail should any of these critical roles be unfilled.
“We work hard to maintain a reliable service, supporting our colleagues, redeploying team members where possible, increasing training and recruitment. Delays and cancellations are always a last resort, and we always work to provide 24-hours’ notice to our customers.”
Red Funnel is currently recruiting for 17 roles including Services Assistants, Customer Advisors, Engineering Officer and Chief Officers. For more information visit https://www.redfunnel.co.uk/en/corporate-info/employment-and-careers/.
