Statement from Chief Executive, Steve Ward about Redundancy Consultations at Newport Live

"The current situation with coronavirus is having a significant impact on Newport Live; the sport, leisure, and cultural sector; and the wider economy. Since reopening facilities to the public in August we have been significantly impacted by the public health measures included within Welsh Government Coronavirus  Regulations, and most recently the impact of the Welsh Government enforced Firebreak with all of our facilities currently closed. Newport Live recognise these measures are for the benefit of the wider population and are keeping people safe, however these have restricted the return of a number of services, reduced the capacities of others and consumer confidence remains low and is continuing to impact on our charitable trust.

"Local lockdowns have affected access to buildings of national significance such as the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales and the Regional Pool and Tennis Centre, resulting in reduced customer participation and loss of bookings which have brought about a considerable loss of income. Newport Centre swimming pool is also currently closed awaiting the outcome of structural surveys, whilst the Welsh Government regulations require that The Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre remains closed and we do not have an anticipated date for reopening.

"On September 29th, Newport Live regrettably informed 97 employees that their roles were at risk of redundancy and subsequently commenced collective consultation with those colleagues, with the support of Trade Unions and employee representatives.

"The Executive Team pledged to do everything in their power to minimise the impact on job losses, working tirelessly with the support of the Board of Trustees, partners including Newport City Council, Arts Council of Wales and Sport Wales, to seek alternative solutions and to mitigate the number of job losses.

"Newport Live have today confirmed that the collective consultation process for all colleagues has ended. We are extremely grateful to have secured support from Newport City Council and their Welsh Government Hardship Fund as well as Arts Council of Wales. We have received further clarity from UK Government in relation to the Job Support Schemes for both open and closed businesses. However, sadly 12 job roles within Newport Live remain at risk of redundancy and me and my team continue to seek alternatives for those affected and to support them through this difficult time.

"Newport Live remains committed to delivering services for local customers and we are encouraging local people to adhere to the Welsh Government guidelines and follow the Firebreak guidance. We are keen to see our services return from November 9th so that we can retain services and roles for our colleagues across sport, leisure, theatre, arts and culture as soon as possible."

 

 

While Newport Live facilities are closed during the Firebreak, we are continuing to work remotely, our Customer Services Team are available 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 01633 656757, via email to enquiries@newportlive.co.uk or online through our chat option at newportlive.co.uk 

Newport Live is a non-profit distribution organisation and charity which delivers fun, inclusive and accessible arts and sports programmes in our community for children, families, schools, sports clubs and local groups across the city. You can find out more about how you can support The Riverfront and Newport Live here: https://www.newportlive.co.uk/support-us/