Student complaints rise to be expected after funding changes, says UCU

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'The shift towards a market in higher education is inevitably bringing about a consumer culture in universities. If students are unhappy with the service being provided they are much more likely to seek redress, even though the majority of complaints are not upheld.

'We are pleased that the report notes that the large number of complaints expected from last year's industrial action did not materialise. Speaking to students and student representatives at the time, we were confident they recognised the just nature of our claim and the bullying tactics employed by some universities - something that appears to be reflected by the small number of complaints.'