Water company Severn Trent, which serves millions of customers in the Midlands and Wales, has signed up to the TUC’s Dying to Work charter which aims to protect employees with a terminal diagnosis.

The campaign was launched two years ago by Jacci Woodcock, from Derbyshire, with support from Mid Derbyshire MP Pauline Latham. Jacci has been campaigning for a change in the law to protect employees with a terminal diagnosis.

Liv Garfield, Severn Trent chief executive, said: “It’s incredibly important to support any colleagues who have received such devastating news – no-one should have to worry about keeping their job if they have a terminal diagnosis and that’s why we were more than happy to sign up to the charter.

“Whether a colleague wants to reduce their hours or work normally for as long as possible, it’s vital that they can expect the help and support of their employer which is exactly what we intend to offer at Severn Trent.”

Jacci began her campaign for a change in the law after she claims she was forced out of her job when she was told she had stage four incurable breast cancer.

“From my own experiences, I know just how important it is that everyone should be given the choice of whether they want to carry on at work and, if they do, for as long as they want,” said Jacci.

“I’d just like to thank Severn Trent for joining the other companies that have already signed up to the charter which is so important for so many people.”

Pauline Latham added: “I’m delighted that Severn Trent has agreed to sign up to the charter, joining a number of other major organisations in the Midlands which have recognised just how important it is to support their employees during such a difficult time.”

To find out more about the campaign, visit the Dying to Work website at www.dyingtowork.co.uk