Published: 3rd December, 2021
The clouds and drizzle were back today, but they did not dampen our picket spirits. Members were joined by local councillors, students, and representatives from various local socialist organisations. It was clear from the discussions on the pickets that our struggle goes further than higher education. Disputes over pay and working conditions are becoming more…
Published: 2nd December, 2021
Our three-day strike continued today. It was an even chillier morning, but luckily we had the help our picket firepit to keep the frostbite at bay. At the picket locations the music, dancing and lots of discussions about why we are on strike continued. Today Leicester UCU members were joined on the pickets by Leicester…
Published: 1st December, 2021
Today saw the beginning of our three-day strike. It was a chilly morning, and the rain came, but the weather did not dampen our spirits. At the picket locations there was music, dancing and lots of discussions about why we are on strike. All of which was streamed live to our virtual picket. This dispute…
Published: 29th November, 2021
Our strike schedule for 21-25 March will be updated shortly.
Published: 8th September, 2021
Summary of USS pension issues The scheme *appears* to have a big deficit – mainly because the last valuation was done when the stock market was at a deep low because of the COVID pandemic. The market has rebounded, so an updated valuation would show that USS is a healthy scheme. But the USS trustees…
Published: 14th July, 2021
14 July 2021 Dear Professor Canagarajah We are deeply disappointed that having attended one dispute resolution meeting – on 20 May 2021 at our express invitation – you have elected to stay away from subsequent meetings. Nevertheless, we assume that the deputy vice-chancellor is keeping you fully briefed. At the most recent such meeting, on…
Published: 14th June, 2021
Reflecting on our short, sharp strike action last week, there is a lot we can be proud of. Physical and virtual picketers turned out in solidarity, along with lots of well wishers supporting our cause and some rousing speeches from external commentators. The strike took on three key daily themes that have been incredibly relevant…
Published: 9th June, 2021
Today, our three day strike began. A socially distanced physical picket line was in force until 11:30am when colleagues marched across campus, ending on the lawn in front of the Fielding Johnson building. The atmosphere was kind, jovial and there was an incredible sense of solidarity. Members conversed with staff, students and members of the…