Bradford Uni strike for jobs

Academic staff at Bradford University are set to strike over proposed cuts. They are not convinced about the university’s response to a £16 million deficit, forcing through job losses.

After a strong vote in favour of action, members of the University and College Union begin 10 days of strike action over the coming few weeks, beginning on 30 June. Earlier in the year the chief financial officer announced the aim was to cut over 300 posts.

Courses cut

UCU says that the university has not said exactly where the cuts will fall. It fears that more staff are at risk – professional as well as academics at risk. Courses have been cut and compulsory redundancies are soon likely.

Student numbers have been falling, especially from overseas. At least ten departments are likely to lose staff. And chemistry and media studies courses have closed, even though Bradford is home to the National Science and Media Museum and is UNESCO’s first city of film. It’s also the UK's city of culture 2025.

No choice

UCU says that the university has refused to extend the consultations period or take steps to mitigate job losses. General secretary Jo Grady said: “Bradford staff have no choice but to down tools because they refuse to see important courses cut, jobs axed, and staff and students pay the price for management's financial failings.”