BT proposes £1,500 bonus for frontline and key workers

BT chief executive Philip Jansen says the company must reward its frontline colleagues

BT has set out a proposal for frontline workers to receive a special bonus of £1,500 to recognise their efforts to keep its customers and the country connected during the pandemic.

BT plans to pay £1,000 immediately in cash and £500 in shares after three years.

The offer is being made despite BT freezing pay across the company and amid ongoing, unresolved discussions with trade unions over its transformation and modernisation plans.

BT chief executive Philip Jansen said of the plans: “BT has made a massive contribution to the national cause over the past year: we’ve supported the NHS, families, and businesses, and avoided the use of redundancy or furlough in our response to the pandemic.

“Our frontline colleagues and key workers have been true heroes, keeping everyone connected in this most difficult time.

“BT has delivered for our customers through the dedication of all our people, but inevitably the pandemic hit our financial performance, like that of most companies.

“In this context, we have to prioritise and I am determined that we will do everything in our power to reward our frontline colleagues.”