In a significant development, strike action by college staff in Scotland has been called off after their union received a new pay offer from employers. The strike was initially planned by librarians, IT specialists, administrators, cleaners, and other support workers who were protesting over pay and conditions. However, Unison, the union representing the majority of these workers, has now suspended the industrial action while it consults with its members.
The strike was part of a long-running dispute between support staff and College Employers Scotland. The disagreement centered around the terms of a pay deal and guarantees against compulsory redundancies. Unison, Unite, and GMB unions had previously been in negotiations, and Unite and GMB members had voted to accept an earlier offer of £5,000 over three years. However, no new offer was expected for lecturing staff represented by EIS-FELA, who were also in dispute with employers.
Unison’s Role and Membership
Unison, with the largest membership among support staff, holds three votes in negotiations, compared to one each for GMB and Unite. As support staff represents roughly half of the college workforce, Unison’s approval is crucial for any agreed deal. The union most recently voted in favor of strike action in 2023, with a mandate that runs through the end of May. Now, Unison has confirmed that it will ask its members to stand down while they ballot them over accepting the new pay offer.
A Long-Awaited Pay Rise
Janet Stewart, UNISON Scotland lead for further education, emphasized the importance of resolving the dispute: “College support staff are the librarians, IT specialists, administrators, cleaners, and canteen workers who run vital student services. And they have been waiting 18 months for a pay rise.” She added that staff were simply seeking a guarantee that pay increases wouldn’t come with the threat of compulsory redundancies.
Moving Forward
Unison remains committed to reaching a resolution, allowing staff to return to supporting students in their learning. The industrial disputes occur against the backdrop of serious financial concerns across the college sector.