The University and College Union (UCU) that represents some academic and academic-related staff at the University have balloted their members on two main issues; disputes over pensions, and pay and working conditions. This is a national dispute so a number of universities will be affected. The University of Birmingham cannot act in isolation to influence the outcomes that UCU is seeking.
Employers representatives have made progress with UCU on the dispute over pensions and industrial action in this element of the dispute has been halted: Universities UK statement on behalf of USS employers.
The continuing industrial action relates to a dispute over pay and conditions.
All of our staff continue to work incredibly hard to deliver the best possible experience for students, and while we respect the rights of staff to ballot for and take industrial action, we are extremely disappointed that this action will target aspects of students’ education locally. While a majority of our staff will continue to work normally it is regrettable that some UCU members have chosen to take this action.
We understand that our staff deserve good pay and working conditions and the benefits of a secure pension when they retire. Birmingham is an excellent place to work and study, and we continue to sustain high levels of investment in our staff including through increased expenditure on and contributions to both pay and pensions and also through a major programme of work on equality and a new initiative to support career development, particularly for early career researchers.
On the national issues that underpin the industrial action the University would support a return to negotiations at a national level to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.