May 9, 2012 1.41 pm This story is over 142 months old

University staff to strike over pensions

Strike mayhem: Members of the local UCU will be on strike tomorrow due to changes in their pension scheme.

Members of the University and College Union (UCU) at the University of Lincoln will be going on strike on Thursday, May 10, over their pensions.

The local UCU members will be taking part in a national strike over changes to their pension schemes.

They will be joined by members of the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS), and a number of other teaching unions.

According to the UCU, the teachers pension scheme has been reformed by government, so teaching staff will have to pay more into their pension, but get less out, meaning retiring later.

“We remain firmly of the view that most of our members will be unable to work successfully until the age of 68,” said Andy Marley, Chair of University of Lincoln UCU Branch.

“Evidence from independent actuaries suggest that working longer has a serious detriment on the life expectancy of staff.

“Staff face a very stressful job and the changes make unrealistic expectations on staff.”

He added: “Over a period of time pension contributions for members could rise by more than 50%.

“At the same time salaries are not increasing, and along with many other workers, are being reduced by the effects of inflation.”

The teaching strikers will coincide with the ASLEF strikes, which will also be taking place on May 10 in Lincoln.

East Midlands Trains drivers are striking over their pensions on Thursday, and will support UCU during their action.