Hucknall and Bulwell commuters could face travel chaos as tram workers ballot for strike action

The action is over the alleged mistreatment of two terminally ill GMB members employed by Keolis, which works with Nottingham Express Transit (NET) in operating the tram network.

GMB claim Keolis intends to slash the pay of Robert Currie, an RAF veteran, and popular local tram worker David Brown as they battle life-threatening conditions.

Keolis are signatories to the Dying to Work Charter, the agreement with GMB and the Trade Union Congress to guarantee vital protection for workers when facing terminal illness.

Management has indicated they could withdraw from the agreement, leaving Nottingham’s tram workers without vital protections if they face a terminal illness.

This is a move that has been roundly condemned by GMB as well as Nottingham Labour MPs Alex Norris – who is MP for Bulwell – Lilian Greenwood and Nadia Whittome.

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

“Many years ago, GMB members were successful in delivering the Dying to Work charter for Nottingham’s tram workers, which gives them protection in the face of terminal illness at work.

“For the company to turn around and threaten to pull out of this agreement, at a time of such uncertainty and hardship, speaks volumes about the companies approach to supporting vulnerable workers.

“Despite written agreements and public displays of support from the employer for the ‘Dying To Work’ charter, the current senior management team seem unwilling to act on the basic principle of support for workers facing terminal illness.

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

In a statement, an NET spokes​person said: "Although we are unable to comment on any individual cases, we have provided levels of support for employees that far exceed those set out in the TUC’s Dying to Work Charter.

“Clearly, we are disappointed that the GMB Union has threatened to take unnecessary industrial action, but we will continue to work towards a resolution to what is a very sensitive issue and remain committed to the charter.”