An initiative has been introduced to aid workers affected by the closure of blast furnaces at Tata Steel, the largest steelworks in the country. The Community union unveiled a support centre in Port Talbot, south Wales, in collaboration with the Welsh and UK Governments and local agencies. The union highlighted the significant ripple effects of the recent blast furnace closures at Tata Steel, leading to the loss of thousands of jobs and impacting the local economy and community greatly.
Roy Rickhuss, the general secretary of Community, expressed the devastation felt by the industry and steelworkers in Port Talbot due to the furnace closure. He emphasised the importance of focusing on supporting those affected and striving to bring substantial investment and high-quality employment opportunities to the entire town. Secretary of State for Wales and chair of the Tata Transition Board, Jo Stevens, praised the innovative support hub as a crucial resource to assist workers through the changes at Tata Steel.
Stevens affirmed her commitment to aiding affected workers and businesses, underscoring the collaborative efforts of governments, unions, and the local council to ensure the town’s needs are met. The UK Government’s funding, facilitated through the Transition Board, has already shown positive outcomes, with individuals successfully transitioning to new roles as a result of the £13.5 million allocation. Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, stressed the importance of communal support and solidarity in facing the challenges posed by Tata Steel’s decisions.
The establishment of the Community Support Centre signifies a collective approach towards securing a brighter future and providing comprehensive support for those grappling with the repercussions of Tata’s actions. The initiative represents a beacon of hope for workers in Port Talbot during this period of transition and uncertainty.