How do I join?
You can join online immediately Join online
or by ringing 0333 207 0719
This is a local cost call, usually incl in mobile & landline call packages (check with your provider), Call takes 10 minutes. Please have bank account number & sort code to hand. Membership is confirmed at end of call.
Why join?
UCU is the largest post-school union in the world with over 120,000 members. It represents further and higher education staff across the UK. UCU also works closely with other unions on matters of common concern. Joint membership arrangements, giving membership of both UCU and the partner organisation are available with a number of other unions.
- Frequently Asked Questions about membership of UCU
- Additional benefits and services available to members
How do I pay?
All new members now pay subscriptions by Direct Debit; we no longer offer the option of paying subscriptions direct from salary. Direct Debit allows you to pay your subscription without intimating your membership status to your employer. And, if you move between institutions, it is easier for UCU HQ to make sure your membership is moved to your new local branch.
Please remember that if you are still on the former system of having your subs deducted through your salary, the university charge Essex UCU an administration fee to deduct your subscription through their payroll. Thus please could I urge you to consider paying your subs via Direct Debit ie you’d be saving your union branch money. To do this, please transfer to direct debit on the payment page of your membership file https://www.ucu.org.uk/myucu Once you’ve had confirmation from UCU that they have set up your DD, please contact the university payroll team, via paymail@essex.ac.uk, to stop your salary deductions.
How much will it cost?
Monthly Subscriptions will be made up of a national and local branch proportion and decided according to your annual salary: click here for subs
Please note the national and local sub sections. Essex charge an additional local sub which has remained unchanged for several years now. Subscriptions are based on your annual earnings, so those who earn less pay less. If you are part time please put your annual earnings not your “full time” earnings.
Student membership & GTAs
Phd students who work for the university as GTAs or GLAs may note that they can be full members for free rather than student members and should contact the national UCU membership team on membership@ucu.org.uk to explain their working arrangements. However if you then stop working you must revert back to a student member.