THE county’s fire service has added its name to a charter aimed at helping employees who become terminally ill.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is the latest employer to sign up to the Dying to Work Voluntary Charter.

The charter is part of the Trade Union Congress’ (TUC) wider Dying to Work campaign which is seeking greater security for terminally ill workers so they cannot be dismissed as a result of their condition.

Dying to Work was taken forward by the TUC following the case of Jacci Woodcock, an area sales manager from Derbyshire, who was forced out of her job after being diagnosed with terminal breast cancer.

Justin Johnston, chief fire officer, said: “We are happy to sign this charter and support staff who receive the devastating news that they are suffering from terminal illness.

“We hope that none of our staff ever receive news like this but if they do, we hope that our commitment which is laid out in this Charter provides them and their family with a small bit of comfort.”