Union "hopes industrial action not necessary" in University of Lincoln dispute
A vote of no confidence in the University of Lincoln's leadership has been passed by a union of it's academics
A Union representing academics at the University of Lincoln are currently balloting for strike action, after nearly 300 jobs cuts were proposed.
The University and College Union has also passed a vote of no confidence in the University of Lincoln's leadership.
Cuts in departments including History and the International Business School were announced in April, along with up to 285 jobs being at threat.
"We have serious concerns about the fact that the University's been prioritising buildings over people for many years," said Dr Owen Clayton, branch chair of the University and College Union.
"They're saying that staff need to lose their jobs, and yet we've got buildings that are underused...mothballing, we've got buildings that we are looking at selling."
The union has sent the vote of no confidence to the University of Lincoln's board of governors - they are set to meet on 5 June.
Dr Clayton tells us he hopes their response will prevent strike action, with the ballot open for another week.
"We would hope that industrial action wouldn't be necessary," said Dr Clayton.
"If the university wants there to not be industrial action, all they need to do is rule out compulsory redundancies.
The University of Lincoln have stressed the importance of their careful financial management bringing a breakeven position over the last two years.
The majority of universities are expected to return a financial deficit for 2024/25.
“As winner of the Queen’s Anniversary Prize and one of the few UK universities to hold triple Gold status in the national Teaching Excellence Framework, the University has a clear vision and plan to keep delivering for our students and communities amid the financial pressures facing UK universities," said a spokesperson.
“The changes we are making now - which include growing areas in response to student demand and areas that have the potential to generate income for the University - are key to adapt to the new higher education landscape and realise the bright future ahead.”