The University and College Union (UCU) has announced a ballot for industrial action among university staff, citing the UK government's failure to negotiate a satisfactory pay deal. The ballot, which opens on 13 July 2026, will ask members whether they are prepared to strike over pay, conditions, and job security.
UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: 'The government has repeatedly failed to engage in meaningful negotiations, leaving staff with no choice but to consider strike action.' The union represents over 120,000 staff in higher education across the UK.
The dispute centers on a pay offer that UCU says amounts to a real-terms pay cut, with inflation running above 4% in 2026. The union is demanding a pay rise of at least 5% for all staff, along with action to address casualization and workload issues.
Universities UK, which represents employers, said it was 'disappointed' by the ballot announcement and urged the union to continue talks. A spokesperson said: 'We remain committed to finding a fair and sustainable solution for all parties.'
The ballot will close on 10 August 2026. If a strike mandate is secured, industrial action could begin in the autumn term, potentially disrupting teaching and assessment for students.
