University staff have walked out as part of the biggest strike to ever hit the UK’s education system.
Members of the University and College Union (UCU) and Unison joined the picket line outside the Robert Gordon University’s Sir Ian Wood building in Garthdee this morning.
Staff are also aiming to trigger action on equality pay gaps, as well as stressful workloads, with others joining a second picket line at the Aberdeen University campus.
A pay rise offer of 3% has been rejected by members – described as a “massive” cut in relation to inflation – so they are hopeful strike action will lead to a more acceptable deal.
Today marked the fifth day of industrial action for Unison members who have said they are not going to “just sit and take what’s been given so far”.
Colin Jones, web and applications team leader and Unison convener for RGU, said: “This year, the employers’ association came up with a pay offer of 3% which the unions rejected. They went through the dispute resolution process last summer but that ended without a resolution.
“It’s simply not enough. Our grade structure means that 3% for some of our lowest paid members is about £60 a month. When bills have gone up twice the amount, or three times as much, it’s not sustainable.”
Strike action ‘not taken lightly’
The most recent pay offer was “overwhelmingly” rejected, which has ultimately led to the industrial action.
Mr Jones added: “We’re just saying that this offer is not enough, and they’ll have to come back with something else.
“Obviously nobody wants to be on strike, people are very dedicated to their jobs and they lose money when they’re on strike. So, it’s not something people take lightly.
“It’s something we’re forced to do because the employers have basically closed the negotiations. The only thing left open to people is to withdraw their labour.”
Lauren Kydd, who works in the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Practice, said: “It’s difficult for us because students are at the centre of everything we do. But I believe we’re doing this for them – we want to be able to do our jobs and pay our bills.
“Especially with a nursing and paramedic background, it’s better for the patients too. It all impacts quality. How do we recruit quality people when the salary is not there?”
‘Fighting for the future of higher education’
Today marked the first of three strike days for the UCU members who said their pay has been cut by 25% since 2009.
Lesley McIntosh, honorary secretary of the RGU branch of UCU, said: “Apart from pay issues, we have an intolerable workload. We can’t carry on like this. It is affecting mental health, it’s not good for staff or students, so we’re fighting for higher education.
“We can no longer tolerate pay erosion and pay inequalities. The stress that staff are under is unacceptable.
“We want our students to study in a positive learning environment and to consider entering a profession that will not give them insecure employment and affect their mental health. We are fighting for the future of higher education.”
Fiona McKay, a course leader and lecturer in journalism, added: “We want to be loud about these issues.
“It’s important for staff to show solidarity with everyone striking as well today, and it’s important for staff and students to fight for their rights.”
Members from both unions will return to the picket line tomorrow, while UCU will also strike on Wednesday, November 30.
Conversation