Further strike dates declared by University and College Union
04 Feb 2020
Fourteen days of strike action have been declared in February and March
Last week we provided an update on the positive and ongoing discussions with the University and College Union (UCU) on working conditions and the USS pension scheme.
It is therefore deeply disappointing that the UCU has decided to take further strike action while these discussions are ongoing.
This action is as follows:
- Strike action 20-21 February 2020
- Strike action 24-26 February 2020
- Strike action 2-5 March 2020
- Strike action 9-13 March 2020
Ongoing action short of a strike continues until 29 April 2020.
In view of the progress in the negotiations it had been our hope that further action would not be taken and we are surprised and very disappointed with this decision as we believe the best way forward at this time is to work collectively to address our shared concerns over working conditions and to secure a pension scheme that is attractive and affordable for all.
While we recognise the rights of UCU members to take industrial action our priority remains to minimise any impact on our students.
In seeking to minimise disruption, we are advising students to work on the basis that their studies will continue as normal unless they are told otherwise. This means that they should attend scheduled teaching, complete and submit assessments by the relevant deadlines, and continue to plan for any examinations. The University will not benefit from any pay which is deducted and will instead use it for the benefit of our students. Information for staff and students will be made available and we will provide you with regular updates.
Kind regards,
Karen Heaton
Director of Human Resources