Cineworld says it is 'reviewing' and 'exploring alternative options' to help its staff, following the government's pledge to financially back those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Isle of Wight Radio understands that a number of employees at its Isle of Wight branch have already been offered voluntary redundancy, with some apparently being told to 'reapply once the outbreak is over.' While others working at the Newport cinema say they have taken pay cuts - or been given the option to drastically reduce their hours. The claims come after the chain was forced to temporarily close last week as part of the government's plan to combat the COVID-19 outbreak, as previously reported by Isle of Wight Radio. However, after chancellor Rishi Sunak announced yesterday (Friday) that the government would pay 80% of the salaries of staff kept on by employers, the cinema chain says it was 'very pleased' and would be 'reviewing' plans. When asked whether this would lead to Cineworld reconsidering any dismissals made, the company said: "We made a number of offers to our employees earlier this week including partial payments until we are able to re-open cinemas. "Following the announcement by the government yesterday around the support they are now offering the leisure industry, including cinemas and their employees, we have written to our employees to let them know that we are currently reviewing this and exploring whether there are alternative options." Cineworld says the global coronavirus pandemic is an 'incredibly challenging time' for them. The company insists it 'values' its employees and 'wants to do everything it can to support them'. Cineworld has not yet responded to Isle of Wight Radio's question about redundancies on the Island.
Hovertravel Services Remain Suspended Due To Unexploded Ordnance
Local Business Gives Back By Supporting Surf Charity
Local Energy Company Seeks Rooftops For Community Solar Projects
Who Will You Nominate For 50th Isle Of Wight Sports Achievement Awards?
Isle Of Wight Churches Launch Urgent Fundraising Appeal For Debt Help On The Island
Plans Afoot To Improve Isle Of Wight Cycling And Walking Routes
Appeal Following Report Of Assault In Cowes
Witness Appeal Following Fatal Incident On Isle Of Wight
Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Attends ‘Man In River’ Emergency
Wightlink Releases Statement Regarding Suspended Services
Changing Rooms: Shanklin Hotel Set For Upgrades
'Plagued' Ryde Farmhouse Set For Demolition
Leeson Road To Re-Open This Sunday
Supergrass, Jess Glynne And Busted Among Latest Acts Announced For Isle Of Wight Festival 2025
Inspectors Appointed For Island Planning Strategy Examination
Islanders Floating Bridge Views Sought
Two More Years Of Restoration Works Confirmed For Isle Of Wight Quarry
RSPCA Isle Of Wight Appeal Launched To Help Island's Most Vulnerable Animals This Christmas
Appeal For Information Following Assault At Crown Pub In Ryde
New Entrance And Kitchen Mooted For Freshwater Bay Hotel
