Nationwide strike action to start across higher education institutions

National strike action across higher education institutions will start on Monday 25 November 2019, after members of the University and College Union (UCU) voted in favour of action relating to changes to the USS pension scheme, pay and conditions. 

UCU members, who include a number of lecturers at the University of Leicester, are to strike for eight days from Monday 25 November through to Friday 29 November, and Monday 2 December through to Wednesday 4 December.

Whilst the strike is likely to result in some cancelled lectures, the majority of University facilities and support services continue to remain open as usual.

To support students during the strike period, the University has developed an online resource to provide information about why staff are taking action and how it may affect their studies, and a web page answering common questions they may have as well as a dedicated email service to answer any further queries.

In addition, information is being made available across campus and social media signposting students to services available for them during the strike period, including drop-in information sessions and details of activities they can participate in.

Speaking today, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Edmund Burke said: “We are committed to ensuring that our students receive the highest quality education and staff have the best working environment. We recognise that no member of staff chooses to take industrial action lightly, and we are working hard to avoid disruption to students’ studies. Students will be kept fully informed of developments, and the University will be in touch whilst strike action is ongoing.”