Strike action: information for students

The University and College Union (UCU) has recently voted to take industrial strike action, following national ballots about staff pay, working conditions

UCU’s industrial action will involve strike action on 24th, 25th and 30th November 2022

It will also involve a form of industrial action called ‘action short of a strike’ (known as ASOS) from 23 November 2022.  UCU is asking its members to carry out a number of activities as part of ASOS including:

• not rescheduling lectures or classes cancelled due to strike action;
• removing uploaded materials related to, and/or not sharing materials related to, lectures or classes that will be or have been cancelled as a result of strike action; and
• not covering for absent colleagues

The Sabbatical Officer Team have met with both the University of Plymouth UCU branch and key figures in the University to seek understanding of the strike so we can inform our position, articulate how we can help and ensure there is minimum disruption to students.

As a membership organisation we are democratically motivated and share the values of UCU of campaigning for positive change for their members. We also recognise the impact that these strikes will have on our members now and the disruption to your education. In a recent poll by the SU 40% of you supported the strike, 29% didn’t and 31% were unsure, this suggests there are mixed feelings to the strike and as an SU our priority is to represent the wide views of our membership – you the students.

Picket Lines- The main meeting point is Sherwell entrance from 8:30 AM. UCU have requested those that wish to attend can bring signs, banners, musical instruments, dogs, children

Our priority  throughout this period of strike action will be supporting you. Details of how we will support you are below.

Support:

• We will keep you informed about the strike via our website and social media.
• The Sabbatical Officers will meet with key senior staff and will look to gain assurances that students will not be assessed on material that was not delivered due to the strikes. 
• The SU building and all our services will remain open throughout the industrial action.
• Our Advice Service will be contactable for free independent advice

Strike FAQS:

What are my rights?

• The Office for Students (OfS) states that all students have a contractual relationship with their university, which means they are protected by consumer protection law. OfS is clear that universities and colleges must continue to offer the service they have promised to students, even during periods of industrial action. You can read the guidance here

Can I still attend / run a club or society event during the strike?

• Yes. The strikes are unlikely to impact your events organised through the Students' Union buildings and facilities will be open as usual.

Where can I find out more about the strike action?

• University info about the strikes can be found here
• If you want to find out more about the strikes, you can contact the Plymouth Branch of UCU or speak to your lecturers if they have announced that they will be striking, although they are not mandated to inform you if they are taking part.