Unity is Strength, Knowledge is Power
Worker solidarity is the lifeblood of our branch.
Worker solidarity is the shared understanding that collective action and mutual support among workers can lead to better working conditions, fair wages, and a more equitable workplace. This concept isn’t new; it has been the cornerstone of the trade union movement since its concept. The essence of worker solidarity lies in the recognition that alone, a worker has limited power, but together, they can negotiate from a position of strength.
UCU has over 120,000 members. In Higher Education, UCU represents Academic and Professional Services staff.
Our members work as academics, researchers, administrators, librarians, computer staff, teaching postgraduates and associate lecturers to name a few, whether on fixed-term or on permanent contracts; whether full-time or part-time.
We have an active Branch with a growing membership. Every member has a part to play, and every member can make a difference – by adding to the strength of the union and influencing the direction it takes.
We don’t just protect your interests as a member of staff. We are a professional body and fight to maintain respect for academic and professional standards, and for the academic freedom which is essential for open debate and rigorous research.
Members of UON UCU negotiate directly with the University regarding your terms and conditions of employment. As a UCU member your voice is heard and your interests represented. Every member increases our strength in negotiations. Your membership matters locally. We work closely with UNISON as they are the other trade union recoginised by UON alongside UCU.
UON UCU deals with over 90 personal cases each year. These range from requests for advice on more routine employment matters to more complex cases such as grading appeals, grievances and complaints of harassment. Personal casework forms a significant part of the work of the branch and there has been a significant increase in the number of cases raised in the past 2 years. All UCU caseworkers have been trained prior to handling casework alone. When necessary the branch involves UCU Regional Officials and seeks legal advice from Thompsons Solicitors.