ALMOST 80 staff could be made redundant by Bradford College due to newly announced efficiency savings, a union warned today.

The college confirmed it is holding meetings with staff to discuss redundancies in light of what it describes as "significant reductions in funding", although it has not confirmed the number of jobs at risk.

Robert Demaine, regional organiser for UNISON, said it was mainly teaching support staff and some cleaning staff who would be affected, and it believes 79 people could lose their jobs.

He said union representatives were meeting affected staff today.

Mr Demaine said: "It has been a really short timetable, staff were only told yesterday. We will be doing everything we possibly can to avoid compulsory redundancies."

The college said in a statement: "Bradford College, like many UK Colleges is faced with making significant financial savings. The college is entering into a consultation process from today with staff and stakeholders; and a voluntary redundancy programme will be made available to staff with the intention of avoiding the need for compulsory redundancies if possible.

"Bradford College will always prioritise keeping its staff informed first and foremost. Bradford College cannot therefore comment further until all staff have received a full briefing and the consultation process is under way."