University staff 'prepared' to take strike action

Staff at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) have backed strike action over proposed job cuts, work conditions and changes to pension contributions.

The University and College Union (UCU) said the ballot reflected members' opposition to what they describe as a "managed decline" strategy that would worsen working conditions and undermine the quality of student learning.

SHU said it was "disappointed" by the news but said in the event of any strikes it would "do everything possible" to minimise the impact on students.

It said that to date it had been able to make "significant savings" without the need for any compulsory redundancies.

The university employs around 4,000 members of staff, split evenly between academic and professional services.

The UCU previously claimed 130 jobs could go as part of attempts to save almost £27m, which it said could lead to a higher work load for existing staff.

It said it wants the university's executive board to enter "meaningful negotiation", adding: "UCU members are prepared to take substantial strike action to obtain a better deal for academic and research staff, and secure a better future for the university and its students."

SHU said like other universities it had to make "some tough decisions" due to the financial challenges experienced across the sector.

"With the overall financial picture for universities likely to be challenging for some time, it is clear that failing to take action would undermine the university's long-term financial sustainability," a spokesperson said.

"We are focused on securing a stable future for Sheffield Hallam, while continuing to support our students, staff and wider community."

Staff at SHU have taken part in strike action several times in recent years, including in 2024 and 2025.

Similarly, staff at the University of Sheffield (UoS) have also gone on strike multiple times, mainly over pay, pensions, workloads and redundancies.

Members are currently taking part in industrial action until 14 May.

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