Weymouth College staff could strike over pay next term
Members of the University College Union have voted for industrial action
Last updated 28th Jul 2021
Staff at Weymouth College have voted for strike action over pay.
They are angry about a recommended award of 1% by the Association of Colleges.
Just over 60% of members of the University College Union at Weymouth College voted for industrial action.
The UCU is demanding a pay increase of greater than 5% in an effort to close the pay gap between colleges and schools.
"This ballot result is an emphatic message from college staff to principals that they will not sit back while their pay is held down.
"Thanks to UCU’s campaigning, colleges received an injection of government funding, but they have failed to work with us to prioritise pay.
"Instead, employers have recommended a derisory 1% pay rise, which is a real term pay cut.
"College leaders urgently need to come to the negotiating table or they will face severe disruption in the autumn.
"Colleges need to understand that delivering top class education is reliant on looking after your staff and ensuring they are paid fairly.
"The employers who engage with us on pay and conditions will receive a positive hearing, but those who refuse should not be surprised at the determination of staff to take action.
"Pay in further education is a problem, and it is time for colleges and the AoC to get serious and do something about it."
UCU general secretary Jo Grady
"The UCU should be declaring war on the government, not poor colleges that can't afford it.
"We would willingly share any of our finances with anyone, and if they can find the extra money we'd be delighted.
"If the strike does happen we will continue business as usual. There is all sorts of things we can do, but I'd like to think this won't happen until further discussions go on in September."
Weymouth College Headteacher Nigel Evans