Support staff at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) are to be balloted for strike action over the threat of job losses, says UNISON today (Tuesday).
The formal strike ballot opens tomorrow (Wednesday) and runs until Tuesday 16 July.
Although recent jobs put at risk of redundancy at the university have mostly affected academic posts, it’s feared support staff will be next to face cuts, says UNISON.
These workers – who include security, cleaning, catering, IT, admin and admissions workers – are vital to the day-to-day running of the university, the union says.
UNISON, Scotland’s largest union, says cuts to these roles would have a serious impact on the university community.
They would also damage the quality of support available to students to ensure they have a good educational experience.
UWS leaders must rule out compulsory redundancies and enter into talks to protect jobs, says the union.
UNISON Scotland regional organiser John Mooney said: “University bosses have got their priorities all wrong. They’re continuing to spend on expensive overseas trips, while their hardworking staff face the threat of losing their jobs.
“It’s time leaders recognised the importance of those people who are essential to the running of the university and focused on protecting their jobs.
“Support staff aren’t a luxury, they’re the backbone of the UWS.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON Scotland represents more than 150,000 members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, care, police services, water, and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.