Following the recent ballot of members, the University and College Union (UCU) have confirmed that the required threshold has been met to go ahead with industrial action. The UCU have announced that strike action will take place on the following dates:
• Thursday, 24 November
• Friday, 25 November
• Wednesday, 30 November
UCU have also warned that without a resolution, industrial action will escalate in the New Year. You can read the UCU statement here.
Many students may be concerned that circumstances beyond their control could potentially impact their experience whilst studying. As your Students Association, we will continue to work with the University to try and minimise any impact this period of industrial action could cause.
Whilst we can see the frustration the impact of this industrial action will cause, we also recognise that staff satisfaction can ultimately result in a better student experience. Therefore, resolution of this dispute, which involves long-standing, national issues needs to be a priority to avoid a longer-term impact on students. In line with our previous statement we urge all parties to work together to reach an amicable solution that minimises any disruption to the student body.
As further details on the strike, its impact and the proposed mitigations from the University become clear, we will do our best to keep you informed. Please see the FAQs page on our website, that we will keep updated. Please check back regularly and be assured your Student Representatives will endeavour to ensure that the impact of this action on students remains at the heart of any discussions taking place at the University. If the industrial action has adversely affected you, please do contact your Student Support Team.
Gareth Jones
Deputy President
(On behalf of the Student Leadership Team)