UNISON representatives for staff at NPower in the North East today (Tuesday) met Parliamentary candidate Bridget Phillipson to discuss the recently announced losses within the company over the next two years.
A significant number of the 2,000 staff employed at Rainton Bridge are represented by the union. Around 4,500 jobs will be lost nationally over the coming months.
UNISON Npower branch secretary Martin Butler told Ms Phillipson about the uncertainty faced by his colleagues ahead of Christmas. and the support offered to affected staff.
UNISON Northern regional secretary Clare Williams said: “Energy sector employees face a great deal of uncertainly at the moment. What’s happened at Npower is a major blow for the region and strengthens the case for public ownership under a Labour government.”
Bridget Phillipson, who is standing for re-election as Labour MP for Houghton & Sunderland South, said: “I’m grateful to UNISON representatives for sharing their experiences and concerns about what happens next. If re-elected I’ll be lobbying the government to put in place additional support that is needed so staff can find alternative employment. I will also continue to meet regularly with the employer about what more they can do.”