Summary
Over 12,000 university jobs have been cut across the UK in the last year due to financial difficulties. Many universities are also making other cost-saving measures, which may include further staff reductions. The University and College Union (UCU) plans to vote on potential strikes due to dissatisfaction with a 1.4% pay offer.
Key Facts
- UK universities have announced over 12,000 job cuts in the past year.
- Additional cost savings equal to about 3,000 jobs are also planned.
- The University and College Union (UCU) will vote on strike action over a 1.4% pay offer.
- Four in ten English universities are reportedly in financial deficit.
- The UCEA says decisions about job cuts and restructuring are made carefully.
- UCU describes the cuts as damaging, affecting both staff morale and student services.
- The UK government increased tuition fees last year to support university funding.
- Some university courses, like chemistry at the University of Bradford, are being phased out.
