100 staff members at risk of redundancy at university

About 100 people could be made redundant at a university over restructuring plans, a trade union has said.

UNISON has lodged a formal dispute against London South Bank University (LSBU), based in Borough Road, Elephant and Castle, and its plans to make staff cuts.

LSBU’s proposal, which will see cuts to employees working in areas such as IT and library services, is part of the university’s plan to reduce costs.

A spokesman for London South Bank University said: “We wish to increase investment in student support, employability, well-being and learning resources. 

“We need to do this while costs are increasing but tuition fees remain fixed, so that requires a review of our current structures. 

“Our proposals have been shared with staff and will ensure LSBU continues to transform lives, communities, businesses and society.”

However, UNISON claims the university has failed to consult properly with staff and their unions.

The union held a rally to protest against the changes last week, and launched a petition opposing the plans, which already has nearly 3,000 signatures.

UNISON London South Bank University branch secretary Jonathan Buckner said: “These plans are damaging, not just to staff, but to the welfare of students.

“These workers have essential roles and provide day-to-day support for thousands of people. Without them the student experience simply will not be the same.

“The university has failed to provide any clear explanation for the cuts or for the plan to transfer many staff to a private company. Outsourcing usually leads to worse conditions, including pay, sick pay and holidays.

“It’s a dreadful way to treat people who risked their lives to work on-site during the pandemic. The university must work with UNISON to resolve these issues.”

Picture: London South Bank University (Picture: PA)