University of Essex staff go on strike over plans to cut 400 jobs

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The action marks the first time admissions advisers, IT technicians, admin workers and other professional services staff have walked out over the proposals to cut 400 posts.

Unison regional organiser Wayne Instone said: “Staff want to be getting everything ready to welcome students back for the new academic year.

“Instead, they’re being forced to strike in a last attempt to stop the destruction of their university.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. All the vice-chancellor needs to do is show staff a little respect, start consulting meaningfully on proposals and work with us to find a way out of this mess.”

The strike began on Monday, coinciding with the university’s annual “court” meeting, where the vice-chancellor attempts to highlight achievements over the past year.

The university was contacted for comment.