UP to fifty full time jobs are likely to be axed at Trafford General Hospital.

An internal consultation document seen by Messenger highlights a wave of likely redundancies to affect up to half of the hospital’s non clinical staff, including low paid porters and catering staff.

The document says the aim of the exercise in removing jobs or redeploying staff is enabling 'delivery of high quality patient care'.

Cllr Joanne Harding, who spearheaded an unsuccessful battle to save the hospital's accident and emergency department, said: "When we originally campaigned about its closure we were given assurances from management about the remainder of the hospital and its services remaining.

“When you close services, you rip out the heart of the hospital and it's going bit by bit and what we feared is now all coming to fruition."

Cllr Harding added: "From what I know, there is a culture of fear there where people are afraid to speak out and risk their jobs."

A member of staff at Trafford General Hospital, who wished to remain anonymous, said there was a 'culture of bullying and intimidation' at the hospital – a claim the hospital strongly denies.

They added: "The message I want to get out there is that Trafford General is dying.

"Since Central Manchester University Hospitals Trust took it over two years ago, it has been pretty ruthless and has systematically dismantled the services at Trafford General, including the closure of accident and emergency department.

"This latest consultation has been carried out against a backdrop of staff morale, which is at zero, and one where people are just glad to get out."

A spokesman for Trafford General said: “It is now clear that we no longer require the level of support services that was previously provided. “We have been very open with staff about this and have provided detailed information on the proposed changes as part of the staff consultation process which is currently under way.

"We hope to offer alternative opportunities where we can on the central Manchester site. "We are committed to being open and honest with our staff at all times and strongly refute the allegation that there is a culture of bullying.

"We recognise this is a stressful time for the staff concerned and we encourage them to speak to their managers or trade union representatives about their concerns or if they require further support or information."