Outcome of the 2025/26 higher education negotiations

I am writing to update you on the outcome of higher education negotiations with Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA), and our next steps.

UCEA have published their full and final offer for the 2025/26 year. This offer will come as a disappointment to many of you, and I know the pay element falls far below what you deserve. The offer of 1.4% not only fails to stop the decline in salaries, but translates to yet another real-terms pay cut. UCEA's offer also fails to go far enough in providing the job security that you deserve.

On casualisation, pay spine reform, workload, and equality pay gaps, UCEA have agreed to commence talks on these areas based on the previously agreed terms of reference. It is crucial that these talks begin as soon as possible, and we have reiterated our commitment to progressing work on these areas as a priority. On this, we can make significant progress, and I hope that these talks will begin imminently.

However, this does not make up for what is otherwise a clearly disappointing offer at a time when the sector faces serious challenges. This is why it is so important that you have your say, and for you to inform our next steps.

The elected representatives of the higher education committee (HEC) met last Friday and voted to launch a member consultation on this final offer. HEC is recommending that members vote to reject UCEA's offer, and vote in favour of undertaking industrial action.

It is important that every single member has their say by taking part in this consultation, and that you play a key role in shaping whatever decisions your union takes next. Every single member's voice counts: this is your union, and I want to hear from each of you.

Please look out for further information on the consultation which will be sent out shortly.

In solidarity

Jo Grady
UCU general secretary