Strike dates set at Lancaster University in jobs cut row

The action comes after an overwhelming 88% of UCU members who voted, backed strike action that will now take place on 27 and 28 November, with pickets at the main university entrance (opposite the sports centre) and the southwest entrance at Alexandra Park on both days. 

The UCU members at the university are already working to rule, refusing to cover absent colleagues, and refusing to undertake any work outside of their job description. 

Management is attempting to axe over 400 staff by the end of this academic year (Friday 31 July 2026) including over 200 academics.  

UCU has accused the employer of relying on overly pessimistic forecasts and seeking to achieve the savings it claims are needed by axing staff, rather than looking at other areas of expenditure, including vanity projects such as its new campus in India. 

The union has called on the employer to commit to no compulsory redundancies and engage in intensive negotiations to review the proposals and the financial assumptions. 

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: 'Strike action is a last report for our members, but staff have been left no choice to protect Lancaster University from the devastating cuts management is attempting to inflict. 

'Management is relying on overly pessimistic figures and must now fully open the books and work with us to protect jobs and student provision here in Lancaster, rather than spending a fortune on vanity campuses on the other side of the world. If the university does not listen, it will face disruption on campus this month and the potential of more action in the new year.'