Industrial Action FAQs
What is industrial action?
Trade unions representing both academics and professional service staff across UK universities have been in ongoing disputes over pay. Each year, trade unions argue that pay isn’t keeping up with inflation and the rising cost of living, while Universities say their offers are limited by what the most financially stretched can afford. Because they can’t agree, trade unions have been voting on industrial action almost every year since 2020.
Industrial action can take two forms:
- Strike action – staff stop working for a period, which can affect teaching, admin and other services. They may also picket (a peaceful protest) outside their workplace.
- Action short of a strike – staff continue working but only do what’s in their contract, refusing the goodwill tasks the University relies on, which can still cause disruption.
To take action legally, each union needs at least 50% turnout in its vote. The results determine whether action can go ahead and how it may affect students.
Why do staff vote for industrial action?
Staff may vote for industrial action when they feel that ongoing issues around their working conditions, pay or treatment are not being addressed fairly or effectively. It’s a way of raising their voices together to call for change when other efforts, like formal negotiations, haven’t led to progress.
At its core, industrial action is about staff standing up for what they believe is right. For some, this might be about fairer pay. For others, it could be about the impact of high workloads, job insecurity or changes to pensions. Often, these issues are deeply connected to the experience of students too, particularly when they affect teaching quality, staff wellbeing or the overall learning environment.
If Trade Union's call for a ballot they will publish the reasons why on their website.
When will strike action take place?
If they vote to take action, they must give the University 14 days’ notice. We'll keep you updated if or when this may occur.
How can I get involved?
You can talk to your tutors, lecturers, and supervisors to find out more about why they are considering strike action. If strike action takes place, you can get involved in rallies, picket lines and writing letters to the University.
You can also talk to your student reps who can raise your views and concerns to the University.
How will I be impacted by potential strike action?
It is difficult to know how strike action will impact individual students, as it will depend on the timing of the strikes, and it may differ from subject to subject and depending on your level of study. It is reasonable to expect some subjects to be impacted more than others by any potential strike action. In the event of strike action, the University should communicate with you via your subject and college about any potential disruption.
What is the Guild’s stance on potential strike action?
We're led by you, for you. As with the previous strike action in 2022/23, we want students to have your say and help shape any stance we take. In previous years we have provided you with online polls and in-person drop-ins to raise your thoughts, concerns or questions regarding industrial action.
What is the Guild doing to support me?
We’ll keep you updated regularly on our website, via email and through social media of any potential disruptions.
Our job is to make sure your voice is heard loudly and clearly, and that you’re supported through any industrial action. If action does occur, your elected Officers, reps and Department Officers are prepped to meet with the University to ensure clear protections for your education, make sure your learning isn’t compromised, and call for a swift resolution that avoids disruption for students.
You are never alone, and we are always here to help. University Wellbeing Services and our Advice team both offer free, confidential support. We’re here to help you feel informed, supported and heard every step of the way.