ucu strikes

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

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 poll by the SU (in November 2022) 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.

Our priority throughout this period of strike action will be supporting you.

How we will support you, the students, as your Students' Union:

  • 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

    • Upcoming days of industrial action:

  • Monday 25th September

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    Page updated: 21st September 2023

    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.
    • Will all staff be taking industrial action?
    Approximately 40% of our academic staff are members of the UCU, but we do not know in advance how many of them will be participating in any action. We respect the right of our staff to take lawful action, and also recognise that taking part is a personal choice.
    Will I receive a refund due to the current industrial action?
    The University will take reasonable steps to mitigate the impact of action and, as such, is not in a position to offer refunds as a result of industrial action. Please see the force majeure clause in Student Contract Terms and Conditions. However, the University will consider any complaint in line with their student complaint handling procedure. Please note: In order to be considered, complaints would need to be submitted after any action has been taken rather than in anticipation.
    Resources
    Your Rights

    The Student Guide to Industrial Action from the Office for Students

    Read more

    Strike Action: Information for Students

    Information around strike action on the University of Plymouth Sharepoint

    Read more

    UCU Rising

    Find out more about the campaign behind the industrial action on UCU's website

    More info

    Share your feedback

    Share your thoughts on the UCU strike action at the University of Plymouth

    Learn more