This week, staff at the University of Bristol will be taking part in three days of industrial action, along with staff from other universities across the country, in opposition to the below-inflation pay rise, which was inflicted upon staff in August 2025.
The strike action is being organised by the University’s UNISON branch, representing professional services staff including admin workers, library staff, IT services, and student support. It follows similar action in February, which coincided with University’s winter graduation ceremonies, and in March, which coincided with the University’s postgraduate open day.
The part of the strike action this week will coincide with the University’s exclusive undergraduate offer holder day on Wednesday 15th April. The UNISON picket lines will provide a visible presence across the university campus, and provide participating staff with an opportunity to present the realities of life at the University of Bristol to offer-holding students.
The University’s senior management has thus far refused to meet with union representatives to discuss what can be done to improve working conditions for staff and to address the impact of the ongoing cost of living crisis. This apparent lack of concern for the wellbeing of their staff from the University’s leadership, including the Vice-Chancellor Professor Evelyn Welch, is irresponsible and contrary to the positive image that the University likes to portray to prospective staff and students.
The University of Bristol UNISON Branch is determined to continue to fight for a better outcome for staff.