West Midlands Ambulance staff could face redundancies - but Trust insist no frontline jobs will go

West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust's chief executive said it was under 'extreme financial pressures' but would ensure patients still received the highest levels of care.

Antony Marsh said it would be looking at all options and would be doing everything possible to avoid compulsory redundancies but they could not be ruled out.

He said: "Due to extreme financial pressures facing West Midlands Ambulance Service, planning is taking place to ensure that patients continue to receive the high standards of service we are known for.

"The Trust will operate within the financial restrictions placed upon it and will do everything possible to avoid compulsory redundancies but they cannot be ruled out at this stage."

Consultations are currently underway with our trade union representatives to explore all available options.

The trust says no frontline staff will be affected.

Following the news, Unison said it was 'shocked' to hear that redundancies may be possible.

Chanel Camelleri-Willis, UNISON West Midland Regional Organiser said: "UNISON was shocked to learn of the proposed need to make compulsory redundancies at West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

"The trust prides itself on being one of the best performing ambulance trusts in the country, so the news that the trust needs to take such drastic cost saving steps was unexpected.

"Particularly in light of the fact that other ambulance trusts around the country are not in such a stable position as the West Midlands, and yet they are not resorting to take such action.

"We are currently in consultation with the employer and are working very closely with them to try and negate the need for any job losses.

"We have been informed that no 'frontline' staff are at risk.

"However we have made clear to the employer that every member of staff at the Trust is contributing towards the excellent patient care that they are proud to deliver.

"Any job losses, from whatever function, will impact on patients that are dependent on the excellent services provided by West Midlands Ambulance Trust."