Wednesday 8 July 2026 Joint report, UCU, UNISON, UNITE This meeting had an open agenda and enabled the Trade Unions to pick up previous lines of discussion and to raise new ones. We began by discussing the university’s finances; the Chief Financial Officer had sent apologies and negotiators met with her a few days later.…
Selection Process and Criteria Joint Report by UCU, UNISON and UNITE Last week saw two collective consultation meetings, focused on the selection process and criteria for redundancy. In the first meeting, taking place on the 30th June, we discussed the proposed Professional Services Redundancy Selection Process and Criteria. The Trade Unions asked for further details…
Redundancy Terms and Pay Protection Proposal Joint Report by UCU, UNISON and UNITE The third collective consultation meeting focused on the voluntary and compulsory redundancy offers and terms, as well as the proposed changes to pay protection. The Trade Unions informed management that we would be requesting improved redundancy payments in our responses submitted to…
In late May, many members received communications informing them that their posts had been identified as being at risk. This began a process of collective consultation that has now formally begun, which is a legal process that requires the University to consult with recognised trade unions on its proposals and to consider alternatives before any final decisions are made. Sussex UCU is actively engaged in this consultation process and our negotiators and representatives are scrutinising the University’s proposals, pressing for greater transparency, and continuing to argue for alternatives to job losses wherever possible. We are committed to ensuring that members’ voices are heard and that management is held accountable for the decisions it makes.
Alongside these collective discussions, staff whose roles have been identified as at risk will be invited to individual 1-2-1 meetings. These meetings are an opportunity to ask questions, challenge assumptions, raise concerns, and propose alternatives. We strongly encourage any member attending an individual consultation meeting to request union representation. A team of trained UCU representatives and volunteers is available to accompany members and provide support before, during and after meetings. We are also holding regular drop-in sessions on Fridays 11am-12pm where members can ask questions, share concerns, and help shape the branch’s response to the consultation.
The coming weeks will be challenging, but they will also be a test of our collective strength. Now more than ever, we need to support one another, stay connected, and work together through our union. Whatever happens, Sussex UCU will continue to stand with members and fight for the best possible outcome for our community.
Welcome to the Sussex UCU branch website! We proudly represent the academic and academic-related staff at the University of Sussex, advocating for over 1,100 individuals at our university and IDS.
The University and College Union (UCU) is a trade union representing a diverse range of professionals across the UK, academics, lecturers, researchers, managers, administrators, ITS staff, librarians, technicians, professional staff and postgraduates. With over 120,000 members nationwide, we are democratically led and committed to advancing the rights and interests of our members.
Our local branch plays a vital role in advocating for the rights of staff members at the University of Sussex. Led by a dedicated committee, including key positions such as president, honorary secretaries, treasurer, and communications officer, we address both national and institutional issues affecting our members. From negotiating with university management on issues like institutional racism and precarious contracts to pension restoration, we work tirelessly to improve working conditions and protect the rights of our members.
Membership is open to all individuals working in higher education, including academics, lecturers, researchers, managers, administrators, ITS staff, librarians, technicians, professional staff and postgraduates. Whether you’re training for a career in higher education or actively engaged in research and teaching, there’s a membership option for you. Join us in our collective effort to create positive change and uphold the values of fairness and equality in higher education.
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Together, we are stronger. Together, we are Sussex UCU.
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Sussex UCU, Brighton, UK 