The University and College Union (UCU) is a UK Trade Union representing academic and professional staff in higher education. It formed in 2006 by merging two prior unions: the Association of University Teachers (AUT) and the National Association of Teachers in Further and Higher Education (NATFHE).
UCU's primary mission is to protect and advance the interests of its members in the education sector. This includes negotiating for better pay, fair working conditions, and job security. UCU members include lecturers, researchers, librarians, administrators, and other staff members in universities, colleges, and other educational institutions across the UK.
Key UCU functions include:
1. Collective Bargaining: UCU negotiates with universities and colleges for improved employment terms, including pay agreements.
2. Campaigning: The union campaigns on education-related issues, such as funding, student fees, and academic freedom.
3. Legal Support: UCU offers legal assistance to members facing work-related problems.
4. Professional Development: The union offers resources and support for the professional development of its members.
5. Representation: UCU represents members in education and policy forums, advocating for the protection of academic and educational standards.
6. Industrial Action: UCU occasionally organises strikes and other actions to address member concerns.
UCU plays a vital role in shaping education policy and supporting academic and professional staff in UK higher education. It is an important organisation in the academic and labour landscape of the country.
So what does all of this mean to you and why is it relevant?
Across 136 universities, UCU members are planning a five-day strike starting September 25th - 29th, due to issues such as low pay, poor working conditions, and gig-economy employment practices.
University staff members, including lecturers and support staff, may refuse to work for this specified period. During a strike, classes may be cancelled, research activities disrupted, and administrative functions affected.
The university staff who may be striking may adhere to the following guidelines, set by UCU, which may cause disruption in the first week of Semester 1.
- Work strictly according to their job descriptions
- Won’t cover for absent colleagues
- Remove or won’t share materials related to cancelled classes
- Won't reschedule cancelled classes
- Won't undertake voluntary activities
The dispute involves a 5% pay offer for 2023/2024 that members rejected, despite universities generating record revenues. UCU withdrew its marking and assessment boycott but will continue other industrial actions. They are open to further strikes if no resolution occurs.
UCU's General Secretary, Jo Grady, expressed frustration with the lack of progress in negotiations and called for a fair settlement.
During this period, we encourage students to reach out to us with your concerns, questions, or any support you may need. Your voice remains at the heart of our mission, and we are here to ensure that your well-being and academic progress are not compromised. We will continue to advocate for transparent communication, timely updates, and the prioritisation of student needs throughout these challenging times.
Additionally, please remember that support services on campus and within the community remain available to assist you with any challenges or anxieties you may face during the strikes. We are committed to making sure that you have access to the resources and assistance necessary to navigate this period successfully.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time. We look forward to welcoming you to UCLan and ensuring that your university experience is enriching and fulfilling.
You can find additional information on the strikes and the work your officers are doing here