Hull College strike off as redundancy dispute resolved

UCU members had been set to walk out in a row over redundancies affecting up to 142 staff, after planned action last week was postponed to allow for further talks. Following negotiation with UCU, the college has confirmed that it no longer plans to make any UCU members compulsorily redundant and will look at options for redeployment of staff affected by the restructure. UCU has therefore cancelled the planned industrial action.

UCU regional official, Julie Kelley, said: 'As a result of positive talks, the college has now removed the threat of compulsory redundancies for UCU members. Strike action is always a last resort and we are pleased that on this occasion we have been able to negotiate a resolution which avoids the need for industrial action.'

UCU members had overwhelmingly backed industrial action, with 86% of staff who voted backing a strike, and 96% committing themselves to action short of a strike. The action short of a strike would have seen union members strictly working their contracted hours and refusing to undertake any voluntary duties.

The college has released the following statement: 'Following positive consultation with our recognised trade unions Hull College Group has achieved the required savings it needs to make through a voluntary and redeployment process negating any need for compulsory redundancies for academic or support staff. The consultation process is continuing to discuss the future of our nursery provision. Hull College Group continues to provide an excellent student experience and a curriculum focussed on meeting the economic priorities of the region.'

Hull College UCU Branch Secretary, Dave Langcaster, added: 'We are pleased with the progress that has been made. Not one UCU member has been made compulsorily redundant. UCU members at Hull College have demonstrated their passion in support of their colleagues and further education in Hull. We now hope that this is the start of a long period of stability for Hull College that will allow dedicated staff to provide the excellent experience our students deserve.'