Staff member Robin White emailed to say: "The news stunned as all. We were all herded into the Warren Club hall and quite bluntly told the site at Worthing would close by 2010.

"After the announcement we were asked to return to our place of work and continue to provide the excellent service we have been giving consistently in the past. Can you believe it!

"A lot of people were too upset to stay and went home.

"The implications will affect everybody in different ways, mostly not good."

The mother of a fraud investigator told she would be losing her job, said: "She's been crying to me on the phone. She's got a mortgage. It's really sad.

"In this economic environment at the moment, it's not going to be easy finding another job.

"It's going to have a massive impact on the community."

Disbelief

Through our website, Dan Carver, who said he had been with the company only for a few months, wrote: "Today hasn't been an easy day for anyone at the Worthing site. A lot of people are in disbelief that this has happened. There has been a lot of tears and a lot of shock has been around the office with this surprise announcement."

Another member of staff said: "Fortunately, I am one of the lucky few that are being relocated to another site. I have heard many referring to ourselves as 'The Aviva 100'.

"The general mood around the building is of a sombre tone, many are in disbelief. However, many are also in high spirits, trying to view the situation in a positive manner.

"One thing is clear – this move will have an huge impact on many people and families in the surrounding area.

"We will, however, all support the less fortunate amongst us and work together as one team to get through this difficult time."

Disappointment

Staff member Jess Russo, 21, a personal incident manager, said: "I have been working here for a year and the job was very good to begin with and it had good prospects. It is a good company to work for, but I am a bit disappointed we are all in this situation."

Michael Nelson, 25, a lead adviser, said: "Everyone was gathered together in the sports and social club on the site and a couple of department heads were brought down to tell us the news.

"The general feeling among staff is very mixed – some are relieved, but there are also lots upset. Some people were expecting this was going to happen. Jobs will be rolled out and relocated across the country in the next two years."

Graham Goddard, Unite deputy general secretary, said: "Unite is angry to learn that Aviva is to cut 1,800 jobs across the country.

"This news for staff that their jobs are now in jeopardy is truly devastating.

"Unite the union will now be meeting with management in order to discuss the implications of this news and ensure that staff are fully supported throughout the distressing process.

"Aviva general insurance is rapidly withdrawing their commitment to local communities and isolating themselves in a small number of cities.
"The suggestion that employees will be able to relocate appears to be inconceivable for most of those affected."

Do you work for Norwich Union in Worthing?

How worried are you by this announcement?

Share your views, comment in the space below, email Chris Taylor at the Herald on chris.taylor@worthingherald.co.uk, call him on 01903 282 366, or write in to Readers' Letters, Cannon House, Chatsworth Road, Worthing, BN11 1NA.

All letters must include a name and address which can be witheld by request.

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