You may have noticed that we have had some people on campus with placards and handing out leaflets. They are UCU members who are taking strike action over a dispute about this year’s national pay negotiations.  The employers have offered a 1.1% increase to all spine points with a more substantial increase for staff on the lowest points.  I know some people will think 1.1% does not seem like very much.  I think we should remember that most staff in the public sector will be getting a 1% increase and the offer is well above inflation which was 0.3% last month. We should also remember that many staff will also receive an incremental increase in August and others will receive a performance related increase.  The employment package is not only about pay: we also  have good pension schemes, good holidays and other terms and I believe most staff think the University is a good place to work.

The other campus unions, Unison and Unite, have also rejected the 1.1% offer and are deciding what to do next. I sincerely hope that this dispute can be resolved without our core activities being adversely affected.  I am sure none of us wants to do anything that could prejudice the future success of the University.

Thankfully, industrial action is a rare occurrence which means that there will be uncertainty and many questions. A set of FAQ’s been developed which set out the University’s position on industrial action.  This will be a living document which will be added to as new situations develop.  In addition, I and my team of HR Managers will also be happy to answer any queries you might have.

Garry Coupland