UCU members have been striking for better salaries and conditions at 44 universities across the country this week, with a further 22 universities set to join next week.
Staff members from City, University of London, who were among the initial group of protestors, have spoken out about the treatment they received from their employer.
Next week’s industrial action will see two days of strike action on the 21st and 22nd of February, forcing City University to close its doors to students. A security manager from City University said, “[security staff] were offered a cash payment of £100 per shift in a desperate attempt to break strike action” as all security positions were on strike. This offer was rejected and attracted criticism from members of staff.
Alongside direct strike action, staff from participating Universities will be taking Action Short Of Strike (ASOS). This could include, working strictly to contract, not covering for absent colleagues, not rescheduling lectures or classes cancelled due to strike action, or undertaking any voluntary activities.
The current demands by the UCU include a £2,500 wage raise for members, and an end to zero-hour contracts. The last day of the strike will fall on the same day as a student strike called by the National Union of Students.