University of Essex (UCU) Strike Calendar

Members of the University and College Union (UCU) are commencing a ballot today that will run until January 19th, potentially leading to strike action in February.

The university informed its 2,974 staff members that they were at risk of redundancy just before the Christmas break.

Management plans to eliminate 200 academic staff positions and 200 professional services staff positions.

This proposed reduction impacts more than one-tenth of the total workforce.

Redundancy notices are scheduled to be issued by May, with plans to close the Southend campus over the summer.

Concerns were raised regarding the timing of the redundancy announcements and the significant negative impact on the university's teaching and research capabilities.

The potential closure of the Southend campus is noted as detrimental to its students, the local community, and economic growth.

If the university does not reconsider its plans, staff members indicate they will resort to striking to protect their employment, students, and the local area.