University of Bedfordshire job cuts 'will affect students', warn unions

University leaders told workers earlier this week that they could lose their jobs as bosses looked to deal with a predicted £5m deficit next year, say the unions.

That deficit — caused mainly by a drop in the number of international students — follows substantial surpluses over the last five years totalling more than £60m, which have helped swell reserves to more than £200m, say the unions.

Nearly 240 existing posts will go under the plans, but the university expects to create around 160 new jobs which staff made redundant can apply for.

The university is planning on merging faculties and schools to cut spending. Unions warn this will lead to fewer staff and less specialised support for student learning.

 Jobs could be lost across the university's Luton and Bedford sites, say the unions. They warn it will be a particularly cruel blow to Luton's local economy as more than 1,000 jobs are already expected to go when the Vauxhall factory in the town closes in April.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: 'Our members are shellshocked at the number of jobs the university wants to slash. We are calling on the vice-chancellor to think again and to stop trying to use staff as the shock absorbers for management's financial failings.'

UNISON Eastern regional organiser Teisha Leigh said: 'Professional services staff do essential jobs at the university, keeping courses running on time, supporting student welfare, sorting out tech and so much more. These cuts will make students' time at the University of Bedfordshire worse. The university needs to come up with a long-term plan that prevents compulsory redundancies, retains experienced staff and ensures students continue to receive a quality education.'