Senior managers at the University of Huddersfield have found the money to offer a voluntary redundancy package after pressure from UNISON to avoid compulsory job losses, says the union today (Tuesday).
The university announced plans in April to make 198 compulsory redundancies, which is more than 10% of its current workforce.
A survey of staff carried out by UNISON found 9 in 10 were prepared to take industrial action to oppose the plans.
Now the university has made a final offer to the unions, which includes a flat-rate payment of £5,000 to at-risk staff as well as statutory redundancy pay.
More than 90% of UNISON workers voted to accept the offer.
UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside regional organiser Vikki Garratty said: “This outcome is a clear demonstration of the power of being in a union.
“Almost 200 members of staff were facing compulsory redundancy. But they’ve worked together, with the support of students, to put pressure on the university. That’s led managers to find the cash for a voluntary redundancy scheme.
“Nobody wants to be at risk of losing their job, but giving staff the option of voluntary redundancy is much fairer and easier to stomach than compulsory job losses.
“It’s a great demonstration of unity and strength by staff, who’ve put pressure on university bosses and improved the situation they find themselves in.”
UNISON University of Huddersfield branch secretary Steve Howe said: “With the overwhelming support of staff belonging to UNISON, the branch has fought hard to secure better outcomes for those affected by this brutal process.
“Initially, the university wouldn’t budge from its intention of making almost 200 compulsory redundancies. But securing a commitment to looking at voluntary redundancies first is a significant achievement.
“The additional £5000 payment to all those taking redundancy has been hard won and welcomed by workers.”
