You’ll all have seen the emails on Friday from UCU Head office to confirm that strike action is now suspended: this includes action short of a strike (ASOS).
It has been a tough couple of months, but let’s take a moment to look at what we’ve achieved at Branch level.
As a Branch we have built momentum and worked together. We have recruited new members, our membership has grown by 15%, and many of these members actively supported our recent action. Our pickets grew in strength and we had important student support. We campaigned hard, and effectively, to reduce punitive ASOS deductions that most other Branches did not have to face. We have come out of this dispute stronger, more active, and more connected. This should be seen as a good turning point.
Of course it is not over yet. We will all need to keep a close eye on UUK to make sure they follow through on what they’ve said to date. This dispute is not over and we must all keep on top of developments as they occur over the coming months. We are sure that we can rise to this challenge if necessary and build on our local achievements.
Keep hopeful, keep critical, keep up to date – and most importantly, of course, keep in touch!
Kind regards
Surrey UCU
Surrey UCU