The University College Union (UCU) is taking national strike action on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 May.
In West Sussex this will affect Chichester University. UCU members will be picketing both Chichester and Bognor Regis campuses on the mornings of both days (College Lane, Chichester and Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis).
Strike action is being taken to improve the employer’s 1.1% pay offer. There is significant resource within higher education (HE), and more of this should be devoted to the pay of staff.
UNISON’s Higher Education Committee of lay reps has also voted to reject the 1.1% offer. This is now expected to proceed to a formal postal ballot of UNISON members for industrial action.
Meanwhile, advice to UNISON members is that, because UNISON members have not yet been balloted for action, they need to go about their usual contracted duties in the normal way, but without covering for any of the duties of striking UCU members.
UNISON members are encouraged to visit picket lines outside of working hours or during scheduled breaks, to show solidarity with UCU pickets. Take them some cakes or biscuits! This is always most welcome!
If UNISON members have any queries they can direct them to their UNISON reps or the Branch office.