VP Education Kate Roberts lets you know what we're doing as a Students' Union in support of UCU's strike action.
On Friday we announced the result of our preferendum on what stance the Students' Union should adopt towards the upcoming UCU industrial action. The preferendum result supported option 'a' - to support the UCU’s strike action and their stance in its entirety.
So, what will we be doing?
- We are engaging with the UCU positively, supporting UCU members and students who are on the picket lines throughout the strike period and talking to students about the reasons for the strike and how they can provide support.
- We have included the UCU’s Teach Inn events on the SU website. The events are being held at The Packhorse. We are providing ongoing support to the UCU in their communication directly to students.
- We have sent a letter to Senior Vice-Principal (Education) James Knowles asking the College to come to an agreement with the UCU over the two disputes: pensions, and pay and working conditions, as well as asking them to develop an action plan to address these concerns.
- We will be releasing some more information regarding accessibility during the strike and support for disabled students. If you need any immediate guidance please get in touch with Lucy by emailing vpwelfare@su.rhu.ac.uk.
- We will be continually updating our FAQs section on the website in response to further student queries and to ensure the information is up to date.
- We will continue to be engaged in discussions with the University over how the pay withheld from UCU members who are taking industrial action will be utilised to support students.
What can I do to support the UCU’s strike action and their stance?
- Students are able to support staff on the picket line.
- Staff on the picket line may really appreciate some tea or coffee and a biscuit or cake if you would like to support them in this way. The picket lines are found at the front gate, side gate and Piggery gate every morning during the strike period.
- Email your lecturer and express your support for the strike, they would really appreciate hearing your support during this time!
- Attend one of the Teach Inn events being held by the UCU.
Read our FAQs
Alongside providing our support to the UCU, we will be supporting your education throughout this strike period. As a Students’ Union, it is our responsibility to act in the interests of our membership. In addition to the actions to support the UCU’s strike action and stance outlined above, we are also working to mitigate any negative effects to your experience.
If you would like any more advice and support relating to the strike action please contact our Advice Centre on advice@su.rhul.ac.uk. If you have any specific questions relating to the strike to do with the University you can ask at your school helpdesk or contact the University on intranet@royalholloway.ac.uk.
Kate Roberts // Vice President Education