Statement on UCEA-Sector unions roundtable on the impact of Covid-19 pandemic – 22 May 2020
UCEA and sector trade unions (EIS, GMB, UCU, UNISON and Unite) held a roundtable on 20 May 2020 to discuss the situation facing higher education as a result of the pandemic crisis.UCEA and unions agreed to explore opportunities to work together to highlight the scale of the financial challenge confronting higher education institutions.
UCEA and unions committed to work together to support the sector in developing a risk assessment-led approach to ensuring the safe reopening of campuses and a safe return to work for staff, taking into account equalities considerations, following the easing of restrictions. This will include working together on the development of principles on the reopening of institutions. UCEA and the unions will seek to work with the DfE, and equivalent departments in devolved nations, to ensure that there is clear, consistent and appropriate guidance for the sector.
UCEA and unions also committed to using the experiences of the pandemic to explore whether there could be, in the future, increased opportunities for flexible working and homeworking working across the sector, subject to business needs.
There will be further discussions to revisit existing sector resources, including the ACAS Digest on job security.
Talks will take place between UCEA and union representatives to progress each of the points discussed at the meeting. A further roundtable will also be scheduled in the coming weeks.
ENDS
Separately, UCEA's Chief Executive, Raj Jethwa issued the following statement to the media:
“The serious income shortfalls and possible implications facing our member institutions during these challenging and unprecedented times are a major concern for all. But any decisions regarding highly valued staff are never taken lightly and employers and unions continue to work together to navigate the workforce challenges created by the pandemic. At sector level UCEA and trade unions are exploring opportunities to work together to highlight the scale of the Covid-19 challenges and to develop principles and help plan for the reopening of institutions. We are determined to support the sector through this difficult time.”
ENDS
For further information please contact: Andy Fryer, Head of Communications and Membership (a.fryer@ucea.ac.uk) or Marc Whittaker, Communications and Events Manager (m.whittaker@ucea.ac.uk).
