UNISON to re-ballot members
21 Nov 2022
Update from Adèle MacKinlay
UNISON has informed us that it will be re-balloting its members at the University on industrial action in relation to the 2022/23 pay offer.
The ballot will open on 30 November and close on 21 December 2022. Results will be expected shortly thereafter.
The national pay offer tabled was up to a 9% increase for colleagues on pay point 19 or lower (£24,871 Grade 4), and a minimum of 3% for colleagues on pay point 20 and above (£25,627) paid with effect from the beginning of August 2022.
UCEA (the national body which negotiates on the sector’s behalf on pay) instructed institutions to pay this offer and, along with other institutions, the University implemented the pay uplift to all eligible employees from the August pay onwards.
Negotiations are conducted at a national level so we are unable to make changes on our own, but we maintain a strong voice in sector negotiations.
[However, our University has previously announced a cost of living support package, we are an accredited Real Living Wage Employer, graduate teaching assistants, who work variable hours have received a 3% pay rise, and we have just announced a major cost of living support package for students, working in collaboration with our Students Union.]
We do recognise how important pay is to colleagues and we take those views very seriously.
We are absolutely committed to the fundamental importance of the University remaining a great place to work, and study.
As we have stated on a number of previous occasions where ballots have occurred, we are extremely concerned that we face the potential for further industrial action.
Any kind of industrial action causes serious disruption for our community, and particularly our students, after what has been an extended period of upheaval.
We will keep you updated on developments with this re-ballot.
Adèle MacKinlay
Director of People and Organisational Development