Just 5% of employees thought the plans would leave the trust in a stronger position
Concerns have been raised about the future of the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) after it emerged 82% of staff have no confidence in its planned restructure.
A poll for the Prospect union found just 5% of NTS employees believed the proposals would leave the trust in a stronger position.
And almost nine in ten (88%) said they thought the plan would have a negative impact on the trust’s conservation and heritage work.
A focus on outsourcing and commercialisation as part of the restructure was also said to be of concern to staff.
We don’t believe that the trust can continue to implement these proposals when so many questions remain unanswered - Ian Perth
“The strength of feeling among our members is very concerning,” said Prospect negotiator Ian Perth.
“The majority of survey participants are not directly affected by the restructure and they are genuinely worried about the future of the charity.”
Perth went on to say union members were growing “increasingly frustrated” by a perceived lack of detail in the plans.
He said: “We don’t believe that the trust can continue to implement these proposals when so many questions remain unanswered. Our members are seeking answers to basic questions and so far the responses have been unsatisfactory.
“We are calling on government, the NTS board of trustees and members groups around Scotland to join in the demanding answers and reassurance.”
The restructure, aimed at cutting costs and increasing income, was first announced in January.
At the time, the charity stated the planned changes would lead to a more sustainable business model and improve visitor experiences at its 129 properties across Scotland.
Simon Skinner, NTS chief executive, said a survey for the charity had found the majority of staff supported the need for strategic change.
He added: "It is conservation which is at the core of this change programme. Failing to address the trust’s long-standing issues is not an option. We need to change and we need to change now.
"The trust has made every effort to communicate fully and openly with Prospect through this consultation process, holding regular meetings and responding to dozens of papers submitted by them."
