READERS have reacted strongly to the news of job uncertainty for some public sector workers in the region.

The Worcester News reported yesterday that county employees for the West Midlands Ambulance Service's (WMAS) non emergency patient transport service are facing an uncertain future over their jobs.

Commissioners in Worcestershire awarded the service to private firm E-zec Medical Transport and the company has not confirmed if it will keep the patient transport service based at Worcester.

Around 80 jobs across the West Midlands are under threat.

Many comments were posted on the Worcester News Facebook page on the issue.

Amy Woodhouse said: “This is a terrible decision that will have awful repercussions on the hospital and the patients.

Martyn Kenyon said: “I hope the new contractor has factored in TUPE costs.

“This stinks and we’ll end up with a poorer service at a higher price.

“I’d be grateful if someone could reassure me the the NHS isn’t for sale.”

Michelle Prosser said: “This is awful news.”

READ MORE: Staff 'in tears' after hearing of their jobs being at risk as a private company is awarded contract for non-emergency patient transport in the county

Pennie Malone said: “Privatisation, piece by piece.”

Frances Dodkin said: “Hopefully the transport window will not be 4 to 6 hours.”

Lisa Freeman said: “ I didn’t see that one coming.”

UNISON regional organiser Chanel Willis said: “Staff at West Midlands Ambulance Service have been doing a great job, which is reflected in the service’s ‘outstanding’ rating.

“Many questions have yet to be answered – primarily where staff will be based."

Non-emergency service operations delivery director, Michelle Brotherton, said: “Commissioners set out how much they felt the contract should be worth.

"However, given our extensive experience of running services like this we didn’t feel that it was possible to run the contract for that amount as it would have affected the quality of care for patients and ultimately their safety.

The vehicles take patients from their homes to hospitals and treatment centres for consultations, treatments and procedures and is a vital lifeline for many.

The new contract is due to begin on 1st April 2020.