GMB ballot at Nottingham Trams

GMB union members are being balloted for industrial action at Nottingham Trams over alleged mistreatment of terminally ill workers.

The union claims that two workers employed by Keolis, which is responsible for running the city’s tram system, are facing reductions to their pay as they battle lifethreatening conditions.

It adds that Keolis is a signatory to the Dying to Work Charter, an agreement with GMB and the Trades Union Congress to guarantee vital protections for workers with terminal illnesses.

However, Keolis management has apparently indicated that the company could withdraw from the agreement, in a move roundly condemned by the GMB and local MPs Nadia Whittome, Lilian Greenwood and Alex Norris.

“This is a shocking lack of respect shown by company top brass to loyal and hardworking staff,” said GMB Organiser Colin Whyatt.

“GMB members are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues facing these hardships and will take decisions on the next steps in their campaign in the coming weeks.”

A Nottingham Express Transit spokesman said the company was unable to comment on individual cases, but that “we have provided levels of support for employees that far exceed those set out in the TUC’s Dying to Work Charter”.