Consultation and negotiation

UCU works to improve pay and conditions for workers in higher education and the post-16 education sector generally. Workers at Durham University have power when we collectively organise through unions and exercise our voice and leverage through collective action. The more members we have, and the more active our members are, the stronger our voice and leverage.

UCU

  • is the largest democratic organisation of workers in higher education and at Durham University, and is open to all Durham University staff (academic and professional services, across all grades and contract types) and postgraduate researchers
  • is recognised by employers to negotiate for you nationally and locally, with sole bargaining rights held by the unions
  • campaigns on your behalf for fair pay, working terms and conditions, and pensions
  • prioritises equity and campaigns against precarity and casualisation
  • represents your interests if you have an employment problem or grievance
  • works to improve the quality and effectiveness of the university as a whole
  • keeps you informed of national and local issues

Durham UCU (DUCU) is the Durham University Local Association or branch of UCU.

DUCU representatives negotiate and consult on behalf of staff, alongside representatives of the other recognised trade unions, through the Joint Consultative and Negotiating Group (JCNG).

For more information on Durham UCU, please contact office@durhamucu.org.uk.

For more information on the benefits of UCU membership, see UCU’s national membership pages.

Individual advice and support

Personal cases are some of our most important work. Members can contact DUCU if they have encountered a problem at work and believe they need representation or support.

Some of the matters members access casework representation/support about are:

  • contractual status
  • grievance & disciplinary matters
  • harassment
  • changes to contracts
  • redundancy
  • changes to HERA grading
  • maternity rights

DUCU’s Personal Cases Co-ordinator reports to the Committee. They are assisted by other DUCU Reps who represent members and can accompany you to meetings with management.

Find out more about how to get help with problems at work.