UCU members to be balloted over improved offer in compulsory membership body row

The Institute for Learning (IfL) had previously announced that its members, who are compelled to join if they work in further education, would have to fork out an annual membership fee of £68 from April this year - a cost previously picked up by government.  That announcement caused unprecedented anger amongst UCU members working in further education, coming as they face pay cuts and attacks on their pensions.
 
Now, following several weeks of negotiations involving the IfL, trade unions and employers, facilitated by the department for business, innovation and skills, a significant reduction in fees has been proposed after the government was persuaded to inject extra funds for the next two years. There will be further concessionary rates for lower paid staff.
 
Under the proposals, a one-year membership will cost £38 - down from the original £68. That lower rate will apply for the academic years of 2011/12 and 2012/13.Those that have already paid £68 will get two years membership for that price. There will also be a new reduced fee level for those earning £16,000 a year or less, but who are above the personal income tax threshold of £7,475.
 
Crucially, it was agreed there will be a review of the IfL involving trade unions and employers, looking at how it can be accountable and relevant to its members, and improve the services it provides.
 
There will also be recognition that staff may approach their employers for support towards IfL fees, and employers will have a have responsibility to ensure adequate time and resources for compulsory professional development.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'These have been tough talks and our negotiators have worked very hard to reach a settlement. Although not perfect, significant progress has been made, which shows the value of UCU membership and reflects the strong support from staff for our stance. We will now conduct a ballot of our membership to get their opinion on these proposals and honour the result either way.'
 
UCU head of further education, Barry Lovejoy, said: 'We understand there are very strong feelings in the sector around IfL and we are particularly pleased that as well as getting members significant fee reductions, we have secured a review of the way IfL works, involving the unions, employers and government. We will be working hard to ensure the organisation is accountable and relevant to its members.'

Notes
Full details of the new offer (pdf)
Further details about the changes to membership