On 25 April 2017 security officers working at the University of London went on strike for the first time in the university’s history.
The decision was not taken lightly, but after years of having their demands ignored, the security officers felt they had no choice but to take industrial action.
Their demands are simple:
- That the University of London honour its pay rise promises made six years ago.
- An end to disguised zero-hours contracts.
- Proper itemised payslips for everyone.
While the strikes have been successful in garnering support from the Institute of Historical Research , SOAS student union, several UCU branches, film director Ken Loach and comedian Russell Brand, they have so far not resulted in negotiations with the University or security contractor Cordant Services.
Instead, the University of London and Cordant have used underhanded tactics to try and break the strike, bringing in unlicensed and untrained secruity officers to cover for the striking workers. This is not only an affront to the security officers’ right to strike, but puts at risk the safety of the university’s staff and students.
These desperate moves, together with a failed attempt to bribe the security officers into not taking strike action, shows that we have them on the back foot.
Now we need your help to deliver the final blow.
Want to help?
- Come to the picket line on 22 June at 12.00, Senate House, WC1E 7HU (https://www.facebook.com/events/101895660403092)
- Donate to the strike fund (www.crowdpac.co.uk/campaigns/1870/the-independent-workers-union-of-great-britain)
- Email the UoL Chief Operating Officer, Chris Cobb: cobb@london.ac.uk
- Follow the IWGB’s campaign:
#uolstrike