Email sent to members on Thursday 30th July 2026.
Dear Members
You have now all seen the Blog from Jane consultation within FN2
In it, she thanks all who sent an alternate proposal, but states that the final outcomes of the counterproposal reviews, which would be communicated on 29 July to coincide with the second VR window, was not possible! They need yet more time!
Quoting from the website: “FN Steering group received 124 alternative proposals – two detailed counter proposals from UCU and 122 individual proposals from colleagues. Of these, 42 proposals (including elements of the UCU proposals) have been accepted in full or in part, with a further nine continuing to undergo evaluation. The alternative proposal process has resulted in some confirmed changes to the HR elements of the FN2 Final Business Case which will be considered by Council on Thursday 1 October 2026.” See both links below.
FN2 collective consultation closed – VR open to at-risk staff
Re, our counterproposals, the VC states: “UCU submitted two extensive counterproposal reports, comprising an overarching strategic counterproposal, detailed unit-level counterproposals, faculty-specific proposals, and proposals relating to individual academic disciplines. We have had 12 meetings with trade unions to discuss the original business case and their counterproposals. In addition to this, four deep dive sessions were held with the unions on pooling, SSR, EDI and health and safety, along with two sessions on finance. These constructive discussions and feedback from colleagues will ultimately shape significant parts of the final business case.” Indeed we did attend all these sessions, we sincerely hope so!!
We too have yet to see the refined Business case, or at least a summary of the proposals they have adopted, and rationale for those they have not!. We are horrified that members who spent so much time and effort writing counter proposals, are now being told to wait still further! We have written to HR today, stating as such (and thank you members who also have, and have copied us in). This would have also allowed members’ decisions, as to whether to apply for VR in the second round, or withdraw, to again believe that our informed voices are heard and that we can rescue this university, even at this late stage.
The VC acknowledges: A significant number of proposals have been adopted in full or part but not to a conclusion at present. This means that we will need to wait for clarity on the form of the draft business case that will be considered by Council at the end of Sept/beginning of Oct. Note also how many governance steps are being omitted.
At our Final Consultation Meeting, our Regional Officer, warned that they did not give the rationale of the pools created, and this could be challenged. We do not believe these were proper consultations. We are writing now to UCU, re permission for Industrial action for next semester, given the large majority that voted for this in our latest members’ meeting. We will let you know!
The strength of UoN UCU members is now legendary. Other branches in the UK state their awe.
So, full solidarity.