Essex UCU, a branch of University and College Union, is formally recognised by the University of Essex management to represent all staff employed within the university at grade 7 and above (academics, academic-related, professional services staff and ALs/GLAs). We are a vibrant, active branch here at University of Essex, with many hundreds of members.
UCU is the largest trade union and professional association for academics, lecturers, trainers, researchers and academic-related staff working in further and higher education throughout the UK. Click here to learn more!
UCU marking and assessment boycott 2023
Read our information on the local hardship fund.
UCU Rising strike action 2022-23
Read our:
- frequently asked questions for students and non-striking staff,
- frequently asked questions for striking staff,
- information on the local and national hardship funds.
Read here for UCU’s latest advice re working during this coronavirus pandemic.
Dear UCU union colleagues.
As a member of Unite and a retired member of staff at the University of Essex, I sincerely wish you all, good luck and every success with your industrial action.
I am sure that you are all struggling with your consciences about taking this action, as you have the best interests of your students at heart, but you have been forced into this situation by the intrangients of your employers.
Please stay firm, as if you concede this time, all future academia will suffer and institutions will not be able to attract the highest calibre staff, for future generations.
Kindest regards to each and every one of you.
Roy Rodd.
Thanks Roy, Essex UCU
Dear U CU union colleagues.
Please be very wary of any employer offer proposals.
Be like me, trust no one apart from the one you see in the mirror, and definitely not any smiling assassin.
The employers are only making offers, due to the impending examination and marking periods.
If they can get you to accept and you return to normal working, you will lose any leverage you currently have and they will impose the changes.
Please keep firm.
Kindest regards.
Roy Rodd
It will certainly be interesting to see how UCU members vote in consultative ballot. Thanks for your support, Essex UCU