University of Bradford staff back strike action as union claims 'at least' 300 jobs at risk

Staff at the University of Bradford have backed strike action over proposed cuts they claim will see 'at least' 300 jobs go.

69% of UCU members who voted backed industrial action in a consultative ballot.

If that result is repeated in a statutory ballot members would have permission to walk out.

The University of Bradford is trying to cut around £13m from its budget, with staff numbers being reduced to 2019 levels.

The UCU claims this would mean 300 jobs going.

There are also plans to shut down film & TV as well as chemistry courses.

University management blame falling international student numbers.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: ‘Our members are prepared to strike because they refuse to bear the brunt of years of mismanagement."

"The proposed cuts are fundamentally flawed and would see important courses axed. We have appealed to the vice-chancellor to work with us to defend as many jobs as possible and secure the future of our university. But no such assurances have been forthcoming.

‘At every step, our members have demonstrated a willingness to engage with management to secure the future of the university, but management has repeatedly refused to listen to our concerns.

"Now UCU has shown we are willing to strike to protect jobs we hope management will begin to negotiate meaningfully and in good faith."

A University of Bradford spokesperson said: "Like many UK universities, we are facing significant financial challenges and need to make at least £13 million in savings. "

“We are reviewing every area of the University in order to reduce costs and create a more efficient organisation, while still providing outstanding student experience and world-leading research.

"Part of this involves reducing our staffing costs, a process which we are part way through.

"We appreciate this is a challenging time for our staff and we are doing everything we can to support them."

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