Branch November 2020 newsletter

We hope you are well at this time, both physically and mentally. With ongoing restrictions and the imminent lockdown do make sure to look after yourself, and others around you. Make sure to take time for yourself, and do take breaks when you need to. If you need any support at work or guidance please do get in …

Lancaster University announces Voluntary Severance Scheme

For branch members currently employed by Lancaster University – you might have seen that the University opened a voluntary severance scheme (VSS) via the Staff Intranet on Thursday 17 Sep 2020.  Whilst UNISON continues to resist the loss of any jobs at the University due to its financial situation, and although we have concerns about …

REMINDER: Branch General Meeting 17 Sep 20

Just a reminder that there is Branch General Meeting coming up on Thurs 17 Sep 2020 11:30-12:30 – a draft agenda, minutes of the last meeting, and a Teams invite to the meeting have been circulated to all members. Themed discussion on ‘return to work on campus’On 8 Sep we held an informal themed discussion for members about ‘return …

Fixed Term Contracts Policy Update

You will probably remember that the University adopted a new Fixed Term Contracts and Casual Working Policy back in November 2019, which aimed to reduce the use of fixed term contract / casual contracts by Lancaster University, and increase the use of indefinite contracts. Implementation of the policy has been severely delayed by personnel changes …

Branch general meeting and updates

Our next Branch General Meeting will take place on Thurs 16 Jul 2020, 12:30-13:30 via Teams. Paperwork and link to the meeting has been circulated to members via email. For newer members, this is a formal, minuted, decision-making meeting that is a little different to the informal meetings that most of you have attended previously. Our Branch …

Changes to furlough arrangements

We held a second informal meeting yesterday with members – thanks to all that participated, it was great to see you all, and your contributions were really helpful. This update is to let you know that negotiations about an extension to the Memorandum of Understanding with the University on furlough haven’t been successful. We are deeply …