Bill to help sick

A DECLARATION to support ill employees who require time off has been signed by the council.

The campaign – Dying to Work – ensures employees are supported following a long-term diagnosis.

Sarah Norman, chief executive at Barnsley Council, attended the meeting at the town hall to sign the charter on behalf of the local authority.

The campaign serves to protect staff who may require time off from work due to a serious illness – allowing them to get treatment or to recover.

A spokesperson from the Trade Union Congress – the group behind the charter – said: “Unfortunately the experience of many workers is that their employer is either unsympathetic or puts up barriers to them continuing in work.

“Whichever choice a person makes, they should be able to expect help and support from their employer.”

An American IT firm has opened its new £12m centre in Barnsley to support its global expansion plans.

SHI International opened its Nexus Integration Centre at Capitol Park in Dodworth.

The 46,000sq ft site includes a technology centre, sales and customer experience hub. Mayor of Barnsley

Coun Sarah Tattersall