03/29/2024

Wales News Online

Local & National News for Wales

Hywel Dda University Health Board signs TUC’s Dying to Work Charter

HYWEL Dda University Health Board has today (14th February) become the latest employer to sign up to the TUC’s Charter aimed at helping employees who become terminally ill at work.

The Dying to Work campaign is seeking greater security for terminally ill workers and offers them additional employment protections when they need them the most. The campaign was taken forward by the TUC following the case of Jacci Woodcook, an area sales manager from Derbyshire who was forced out of her job after being diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.

The TUC is asking employers to sign up to its charter to stop cases like Jacci’s happening in the future.

The Dying to Work Charter now covers over a million workers across the private and public sector including well know employers such as Rolls Royce, the Royal Mail and a number of Welsh local authorities.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Deputy CEO, Dr Phil Kloer, said: “This is a very positive step forward in supporting our staff when they need it most. We are proud to sign up to this Charter today which will strengthen our values as an organisation and as an employer.”

Wales TUC’s Dying to Work Lead Gareth Hathway said:

“Your job should be the least of your worries when you get a terminal diagnosis.

“It’s fantastic to see trade unions and employers working in partnership to protect the 10,000 employees at Hywel Dda University Health Board. The charter will be a great comfort to those who need it and their families”

Sandra Watson, RCN Wales Representative said: “The Royal College of Nursing is proud to be a part of this charter. Our participation demonstrates our total dedication to all our staff and their life circumstances. It is imperative that people feel valued and supported in their workplace. We are extremely pleased that Hywel Dda University Health Board has signed up to the charter and we would encourage all employers to join us.”

Nadia Probert, UNISON branch secretary said: “I am very pleased the health board is working with the trade unions and is backing Wales TUC’s campaign to better support the rights of workers following a terminal diagnosis.

“Employers have a duty of care to their workforce and we hope others will follow Hywel Dda’s example and sign up to the charter too.”

  • TUC Dying to Work Charter protects rights at work for those facing a terminal illness
  • Campaign began in 2016following Derbyshire sales manager losing her job after cancer diagnosis
  • Over 1 million workers in the UK now covered by the Charter

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