Brunel University staff back strike action over job cuts

The dispute arose over management's original plans to make 135 academic staff redundant.  After losing over 60 to voluntary redundancy, the rest at risk are left facing compulsory redundancy in Life Sciences, Economics and Finance, Law and the Brunel Business School.  Added to this are the 79 technical and professional staff at risk of redundancy, who provide vital day to day support for students. The compulsory redundancies are due to take place by 31 March and the university has not ruled out further job losses 

UCU called on the university to listen to staff and work with the union to avoid both compulsory redundancies and disruption on campus. 

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: 'Our members have overwhelmingly backed strike action at Brunel because they refuse to allow their colleagues to pay the price for management's financial failures. Any cuts will not only impact staff and students but also the local community, as the university is vital for widening participation within the local area and has high numbers of mature students. 

'The employer must start listening to their staff and work with us to avoid compulsory redundancies or face disruption on campus.'