CAMPAIGNERS are stepping-up their opposition to the "privatisation" of some parts of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.
Union members will be gathering names on a petition in Keighley, Shipley and Ilkley town centres this Saturday (Oct 21), between noon and 2pm.
UNISON, backed by Keighley MP John Grogan, claims the plan would destroy staff pay and conditions.
But trust bosses say no decision has been made over the proposals, which would see a company run estates, facilities and procurement – including services like hospital porters, cleaning staff, ward catering and laundry.
UNISON area organiser, Michael Parkinson, said: "This plan will lead to lower wages and poor conditions for new staff – and the public does not want to see that happen."
It is intended to present the petition to trust board members when they meet next Wednesday (Oct 25).
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here