The Friday email: 1 September 2017

Further education England e-ballot opens Monday

Members in English further education institutions should look out for an email from us on Monday 4 September containing your link to vote in a consultative e-poll on what you would like the union to do should the employers pay offer prove unsatisfactory when UCU meets the Association of Colleges later this month. Please make sure you vote and show your support for a statutory ballot for action to secure a fair deal for FE staff. 

University pension scheme fundamentally strong despite alarmist reports

Staff have spoken out over 'alarmist and misleading' reporting on the state of the University Superannuation Scheme (USS) in a letter to the Times Higher Education challenging the methodology used to produce valuations and calling for removal of the controversial 'Test 1' which the union believes uses an overly prudent approach and is providing the basis for unsustainable cuts to members' benefits.

We are international: standing up for non-UK education staff

UCU is committed to representing our international workforce and fighting for their interests in uncertain times:

• We want to ensure that UCU is attractive and relevant to international staff. If you are from overseas and employed in UK education please complete this short survey and help us improve the support we offer. 
• Support 13 September citizens' day of action: stand with EU citizens in the UK and British citizens in Europe. 2pm lobby of Parliament, 6pm rally in Trafalgar Square. 
• Government must remove international students from migration figures: last month we called on the government to send a clear message that the UK is open and welcomes international staff and students. 

UCU organising in adult education

UCU is currently reviewing how we organise the union in adult education workplaces and you can help by having your say in this short online survey.

Switch to Direct Debit, stay protected and enter our prize draw

If you currently pay your UCU subscription via payroll please now switch to Direct Debit payments by visiting our website here or calling us on 0333 207 0719. Direct Debit payments are quicker, cheaper, more efficient and ensure continuous union protection when changing employers. Switching today enters you in our free prize draw for up to £100 shopping vouchers.