University staff to strike over school merger plan

Staff at a university in Staffordshire have voted to strike in a dispute over the merger of two departments and the possibility of job losses.

Keele University bosses have planned to combine the school of humanities with the school of social sciences, with 24 jobs potentially being axed as a result according to the University and Colleges Union (UCU).

The union said savings of £400,000 had already been made in Keele's business school, through voluntary redundancies.

The university said the sector was facing well-publicised financial and recruitment challenges, meaning it was forced to reduce costs.

"Our members at Keele have resoundingly rejected management's proposals to slash jobs and cut student provision," UCU general secretary Jo Grady said.

"We hope management now begins meaningful negotiations to protect jobs, courses and the future of Keele University."

The union said 75% of its members who participated in the ballot voted yes to strike action.

They added that 89% had also backed taking action short of strike, which could include working to rule.

Strike action is set to take place on 28 April, 29 April, 1 May, 6 May and 8 May.

The university's latest accounts show unrestricted reserves of more than £218m.

A spokesperson for the university said the financial challenges that were currently facing the institution and the sector nationally were well publicised.

The last two years had seen increased challenges in student recruitment, they added.

"Around 5% of our workforce have voted for strike action and we recognise that any potential staff losses cause uncertainty and worry for staff and students, but we need to act to protect the university's long-term future," they said.

"Throughout the period of strike action our priority is to minimise, as much as we can, the potential negative impact on and disruption for our students.

"We remain committed to ensuring the best outcomes and experience for our students and to keeping students properly informed, and we will do everything possible to fulfil this commitment throughout this period of action."