Virgin Media O2 faces thousands of job cuts
November 2, 2026 12.07 Europe/London By Julian Clover


Virgin Media O2 is preparing substantial job cuts as part of a wider restructuring, with further details expected alongside its third-quarter results on November 3.

Sky News reported that thousands of positions could be affected across the operator’s approximately 16,000-strong workforce. One source suggested the figure could reach 4,000, although the number had not been finalised. The report said the forthcoming announcement would set out a financial savings target rather than a specific headcount reduction. Contractors and suppliers are also expected to come under review.

Prospect, which represents VMO2 employees, described the cuts as “disappointing and very unsettling”. Deputy general secretary Noel McClean said the union would work to reduce redundancies and secure retraining and redeployment for affected staff. VMO2 declined to comment.

The restructuring comes amid concerns over the company’s debt burden and follows reports that VMO2 is nearing an agreement to use Openreach’s fibre network to serve customers outside its existing coverage. That arrangement has not been announced by either company.

Broadband TV News has approached Virgin Media O2 for comment.