Redundancies at Heriot-Watt University update

Dear supporter of no compulsory redundancies at Heriot-Watt University: The no compulsory redundancies at Heriot-Watt University petition has now been running for a good few weeks and is now closing on a magnificent 1500 signatures. So, at the very least thanks to everyone who has signed it so far and passed on details to family, friends, colleagues, etc. The less than good news is that, despite making savings in excess of what was planned from voluntary redundancies, Heriot-Watt University refuses to rule out the possibility of compulsory redundancies. It is far from unclear how Heriot-Watt University plans to make further savings and it also unclear how Heriot-Watt University plans a recovery from its current problematic financial position. The UCU trade union remains in talks with Heriot-Watt University about removing the threat of compulsory redundancies and expects to be further updated on such matters when the new academic year starts in September. In the meantime, please distribute the petition far and wide, ideally targeting Heriot-Watt University students, who appear only vaguely aware of a situation they will face when returning to study in the new academic year, i.e. their favourite lecturer may have left, courses are taught by externals given very little notice to prepare, remaining staff will be stretched in terms of providing the experience returning students have come to expect, etc. We will update again soon. Best wishes. Claire