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Higher education strikes update

20 February 2020

Over the past few weeks I have warned employers not to underestimate UCU members by assuming we are reluctant to escalate our disputes.

If the pickets I've visited at SOAS in London and the other picket lines and rallies I've seen photos of today are anything to go by, I was right.

Despite some terrible weather across the UK there has been so much commitment and enthusiasm, with some branches reporting more members than ever turning out in support of the strikes. You can take a look at some photos and videos from the physical and digital picket lines on our 'wall of action'.

We have had messages of solidarity from shadow education secretary Angela Rayner and from the NUS. I have also recorded a short video with the NUS vice president (higher education) to explain to students why we need and value their support.

I have spoken to Sky News, LBC, ITV News and the BBC to explain why these disputes matter. Listen to my interview on the Today programme on Radio 4 this morning here.

Our employers have never spent less of their money on you than they do currently. All we are asking is for an end to a ten-year trend of declining investment in staff. If you take every day of action like this one, I believe we can make that happen.

Jo Grady
UCU general secretary

Last updated: 6 May 2022