An update on industrial action by Exeter UCU members, what this means for students, and where to go for advocacy and support.
On Wednesday 28th October, members of the Exeter branch of the University and College Union (UCU) began taking action short of a strike. This is part of an ongoing dispute with the University over voluntary redundancies and a restructure that took place over the summer. Following the all-student email, you may have questions about what this means for you. Whether this is the first time you’ve heard of industrial action or you’ve got questions about your rights, we’re here to break it down:
What is industrial action?
Industrial action is when workers take action against their employer during a workplace dispute. Often this is organised through trade unions which are recognised bodies representing groups of workers, but it doesn’t need to be.
This current period of industrial action is being led by Exeter UCU, so the action involves staff who are members of this trade union.
What is a strike? What is action short of a strike?
When industrial action is covered on the news, you’ve probably heard about workers going on strike. This essentially means stopping work, and it can happen on set strike days or for a time period. Staff will not come into work or carry out work tasks.
Exeter UCU have announced that they are taking action short of a strike. This covers any action that takes place outside staff’s daily work responsibilities. The UCU have informed the University that this round of action will include:
- Working to contract (only working to the minimum requirements of their employment contract e.g. taking full lunch break, not staying late)
- Refusing additional activities (e.g. voluntary activities in addition to their contract)
Other forms of action which fall under this category include not covering for absent staff, and not rescheduling previously cancelled teaching.
How does this affect me?
The University has an FAQs page answering questions you may have about how it will impact your course, as well as a dedicated email: industrialaction@exeter.ac.uk. You can also visit the Exeter UCU branch’s website to read more about the current round of action.
In general, you do not need to do anything differently, as staff are not taking full strike action.
What can I do?
Your SU Presidents are working hard to ensure student experience is protected and prioritised throughout the ongoing situation. If you have feedback, you can email presidents@thesu.org.uk. You can also submit ideas for action through our Make A Change tool, check out our campaigning resources, or speak to your course rep or subject chair.
All students enter into a contract with the University when you start studying, meaning you all have consumer rights. If you are affected by this round of industrial action or you have questions about your rights, you can book an appointment with your SU’s free, independent Advice service.
You can also access wellbeing support through Wellbeing Services.