An extremely well attended EGM took place on 16th July, where members were updated on recent developments in the Transformational Change Program and negotiations with management.

You can view meeting slides by clicking here.

Negotiators were clear that management had failed to respond positively to UCU demands despite their being given the time and space to do so by the branch (postponement of 4 days of action). In particular it was confirmed that a proposed extension of VR would not be implemented, and that only very limited ad inadequate financial information had been supplied.

Committee was keen to hear the views of members over a proposal to reschedule postponed action to coincide with clearing as a means of escalating the dispute. There was a range of views expressed from definitely not, through the value of doing so as a lever to get movement, to it being an essential next step.

Further escalation may also be necessary, and there will be a further EGM to vote on proposals to add further strike action, some to coincide with the start of term.

The next period of action will be crucial, with 5 days commencing 21st July. Committee are calling for as many as possible to attend pickets as well as participating in the strike. Wednesday sees a session of Council so there is an opportunity to make Council aware of the strength of feeling of members. There will also be a speaker and rally at 11:30 on Wednesday to coincide with the arrival of Council members. Watch for Newsletter for details of picket times/locations.

It was proposed from the floor that a vote be taken on a motion to schedule 4 days of action over clearing.

Motion – Reschedule strike days postponed from 7-8th and 10-11th July to coincide with clearing, namely 12th – 15th August 20225.

For	39
Against	1
Abstain	3

Phase 1 outcomes will be communicated to staff affected imminently. UCU is aware that their warning that areas may be decimated due to the over emphasis on research in the selection process had been borne out, with one area losing all prof. Management claims that UCU criticisms were ‘with the benefit of hindsight’ were robustly countered. Management are seeking a solution that does not compromise the integrity of their selection mechanism(!).

The branch is aware that those who have failed at Phase 1 to secure a role are being offered 1-2-1 consultations during the next strike period. All members are advised to request that consultation meetings be rescheduled due to the unavailability of union representation if offered a meeting during a strike period.