BASILDON and Thurrock hospitals have revealed around 40 to 50 people may face redundancy, at the start of the new financial year, in April.

The trust is currently facing a possible £20 million pound reduction in its contract with NHS South West Essex for the year 2011/12. A spokesman at the Trust said: "I believe only up to around 40-50 actual people may face redundancy.

"I expect few, if any, of these to be nurses, as we will be able to offer them alternative employment in vacant posts in other wards and departments."

A consultation on the redundancies and the trust's financial position starts on Monday, March 7, and runs until Wednesday, April 6.

The outcomes from the consultation will be considered by the hospital board next month.