Dear Unite Members,
Below is an update on the key areas Unite has been actively involved in recently, many of which are directly affecting our members.
All members should now be aware of the LU Futures project, which is aimed at reducing costs through staff reductions and reshaping how activities and functions are delivered. We have been engaged in a detailed series of meetings with University senior management and POE to discuss the proposals. As a result, we have already secured significant changes to the initial plans.
Our current focus is on the academic blueprint, but we remain fully aware that the professional services blueprint will be rolled out shortly. We are working to ensure that any proposals are not detrimental to professional services staff.
We have long been working to protect the established working patterns for College porters and security staff. Management has recently proposed new changes, and we are actively engaging with members in those areas, along with POE, to achieve the best possible outcome for staff.
You may have seen on the University intranet that ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras will soon be introduced at campus entrances. This will effectively make parking chargeable 24 hours a day for those without a permit.
Unite was informed of this change only a few hours before the announcement went public. We encourage all members to review the proposed arrangements and share with us any concerns or foreseeable issues.
We recently held a consultative ballot regarding the proposed pay rise. While the overwhelming response was to reject the offer, unfortunately, the turnout did not meet the required threshold. We will be passing the results to our national officer and will keep members updated on any further developments.
As a reminder, the pay negotiations between the joint unions and UCEA concluded with a final pay offer of 1.4% which is well below inflation, (RPI 4.3% CPI 3.4% June 2025). The Unite National Committee is recommending rejection.
Please try to attend the joint union drop-in sessions, which are held under the Library (at the end of Library Avenue). These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to hear updates, raise concerns, and engage with reps in an informal setting.
We understand this is a time of stress and uncertainty. Please remember, you don’t have to face challenges alone. Reach out to a rep, a colleague, or a member of the Executive Committee if you need advice or assistance—we’re here to help.
In solidarity,
Unite The Union, Lancaster Uni Branch Exec Committee