Livewell Southwest commit to TUC’s Dying to Work Charter

Livewell Southwest has today (Wednesday) added its name to a charter aimed at helping employees who become terminally ill at work.

The social care organisation is the latest employer to sign up to the Dying to Work Voluntary Charter, following in the footsteps of employers such as Rolls Royce, Royal Mail and the Co-op.

The Charter is part of the TUC’s wider Dying to Work campaign that is seeking greater security for terminally ill workers so they cannot be dismissed as a result of their condition.

Dying to Work 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 voluntary charter to stop cases like Jacci’s happening in the future.

UNISON South West regional secretary Joanne Kaye said:

“It’s been great to work with Livewell Southwest on this campaign, which reinforces its commitment to the protection of battling terminal illness.

“The signing of the charter reassures public service workers of their right to dignity while alleviating the fear of unnecessary upset and leaving their families facing financial hardship.”

TUC South West regional secretary Nigel Costley said:

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

“I’m delighted that Livewell Southwest has shown real leadership in this area, working with unions to guarantee fair treatment for terminally-ill workers.

“We now have a million workers being covered by the Dying to Work charter across the country, and we expect more employers to commit in the coming months.”

Livewell Southwest associate director of HR & engagement Angela Saxby said:

“Livewell Southwest is delighted to sign up to the Dying to Work Charter with our union colleagues. This reinforces our commitment of being a kind, respectful, inclusive, ambitious and responsible employer.

“We work closely with unions to support the wellbeing of our employees and signing up this pledge will offer further support to colleagues and their families at a time when they need it should they be diagnosed with a terminal illness.”