On Tuesday 5 November, UCU announced eight days of strike action, to take place from 25 November to 29 November 2019 and from 2 December to 4 December 2019. In addition, action short of a strike is planned from 25 November to continue until no later than 29 April 2020.
The action has been called in response to UCU’s concerns with regard to two areas; member contributions to the USS pension scheme, and pay and conditions.
I recognise that news of potential industrial action is concerning, and that some of you will have experienced industrial action in the past.
However, while dates of action have been announced, our representative bodies, Universities UK and Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA), remain open to further talks with UCU to discuss how the dispute can be resolved without industrial action taking place.
Through my weekly newsletter, intranet and social media I will keep you updated on any developments and ensure you have information as it becomes available. I will also ensure the Students’ Union are kept informed. In the meantime, it is important that you continue to attend classes and remain focussed on your studies and on meeting assessment deadlines.
Professor Paul Layzell
Principal