Durham University Staff Take Industrial Action Over Workload Concerns
University workers adopt a working-to-rule strategy
Image source: Google
By Pamela Bilalova
North East and Cumbria
Durham University staff have initiated industrial action due to concerns regarding excessive workload pressures. The University and College Union (UCU) claims that management has imposed "unbearably high" workloads on staff after eliminating hundreds of positions. However, Durham University refutes any plans for compulsory redundancies, describing the working-to-rule approach as "unjustified".
Sara Uckelman, the UCU president in Durham, appeals to the university's administration to address the "exhausted" staff's concerns and collaborate with the union to "reduce workloads and alleviate stress". A university spokesperson assures that workload management remains a priority, emphasizing regular and transparent communication with staff.
The UCU has indicated that the working-to-rule strategy could persist for up to six months unless management engages in meaningful negotiations regarding unfair workloads. This approach involves adhering strictly to mandated hours, refusing voluntary activities, and withdrawing goodwill, including the refusal to cover for absences.
Jo Grady, the UCU general secretary, emphasizes that staff should not be expected to bear the burden of colleagues' lost positions. She states, "Hundreds of jobs have been cut, and the university is relying on the 'free labor' of those who remain. We cannot permit this situation to persist."
The university, in response, has encouraged campus trade unions to voice specific workload concerns. They assert their commitment to addressing these issues through close collaboration with the unions.
Last year, Durham University announced plans to reduce costs by cutting 200 jobs. Despite these measures, the university emphasized the importance of continued cost-cutting in a letter to the UCU in November, dismissing claims of non-engagement with the union.
For more information, please contact BBC Wear.
