UCU is the largest post-school union in the world. We cover universities, colleges, prisons, adult education and other post-16 training providers and our membership includes academics, lecturers, teachers, trainers, instructors, researchers, administrators, managers, computer staff, librarians, postgraduate teaching assistants and other education professionals.
Membership of Durham UCU is open to all staff from Grade 1 to Grade 10.
While our national rules allow UCU to recruit those in qualifying employment, UCU works closely with our sister trade unions and we do not actively seek to recruit members of other unions or in areas where we have no legitimate interest. At Durham, different unions do not represent different grades: four recognised trade unions are jointly recognised to jointly represent all staff. Wherever you work, we recommend you join a union. If in doubt about the right union for you, contact help@durhamucu.org.uk or talk to a rep about the options.
In addition to representing staff, all postgraduate researchers are eligible to join UCU and choose either full membership or free Student membership with reduced representation. Student members and PGR members who do not have a staff role at the university are, however, not eligible to vote for and participate in industrial action.