15.01.15
Dudley Group NHS FT to cut 400 jobs over two years
The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust has announced plans to cut 400 jobs over the next two years.
Starting with voluntary redundancies, the trust will then seek further compulsory redundancies if enough savings aren’t made.
The cuts are part of the trust’s 4% annual efficiency savings, which equates to £12m a year. The Dudley Group is forecasting a £7m deficit by the end of the financial year, though says it has already saved £1m through vacancy control and budget reviews since November.
Most of the jobs to go are non-clinical. Nursing and midwifery posts in bands 2, 5 and 6 will not be included in the redundancy program.
Paula Clark, chief executive of the trust, said: “The Dudley Group is entering into a two-phase redundancy plan to reduce 400 posts over the next two years across the organisation to save £14m on its pay costs to help it achieve financial stability.
“In the first instance we are seeking voluntary redundancies. Depending on the savings made during the voluntary process, we will then seek further compulsory redundancies.
“The Board has decided to seek the biggest staffing reduction amongst non-clinical staff as we continue to ensure we have appropriate levels of staff to keep services safe for our patients.”
She added: “Our medical workforce is subject to a separate review looking at productivity and future planning.”
Tracy Wood from Unison said clinical staff including theatre workers, radiographers and phlebotomists could be eligible.
She described the news as "depressing".
(Image: Main entrance of Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley. Credit: Gordon Griffiths)
Tell us what you think – have your say below or email [email protected]