Trust’s work outsourced to law firm

THE Pennine Acute Trust’s board has made the controversial decision to outsource human resources work to a private company.

The trust, which runs the Royal Oldham Hospital and others, has decided Leeds-based law firm Capsticks will be taking over HR work. NHS union Unison’s petition against the move was signed by more than 3,000 people, including Oldham West and Royton MP Michael Meacher.

The petition claimed giving the work to a private company would remove access to HR advice or support. NHS staff hoped the plans would be scrapped.

Roger Pickering, executive director of human resources at the Trust said: “We are keen to explore all options to improve efficiency.

“The decision was not purely based on financial efficiencies, but importantly also on the quality and deliverability of the service offered. Staff directly affected by the decision have been informed and will be supported.”