City of Portsmouth College committed to creating "inclusive" and "aspirational" workplace for staff as strike continues over working conditions
City of Portsmouth College has said it will continue to engage with unions to find a resolution to a pay dispute which has led to a three-day strike.
The University and College Union (UCU) and the National Education Union (NEU) members are on their second day of industrial action as they seek better pay and working conditions. Picket lines have been set up at the college’s three campuses across Portsmouth with strikers braving the weather conditions to try to get their message heard.
City of Portsmouth College has said it understands the position of the unions but that “positive strides” have been made in the past three years to improve working conditions. It confirmed it will continue to engage with the unions to find a resolution while alternative education measures have been put in place for students affected by this week’s strike.
A spokesperson for the City of Portsmouth College said: “City of Portsmouth College (COPC) acknowledges that some employees, who are members of UCU and/or the NEU, are taking strike action this week.
“This is part of nationwide co-ordinated strike action by both unions over concerns regarding the cost-of-living increase, workload agreements and national bargaining. In the lead up to strike action, the College engaged with the two unions in hopes of a resolution, and it will continue to do so.
“The College has alternative learning arrangements in place for those students whose lessons may be impacted by the staff striking and is doing everything it can to minimise the impact on our students.”
The spokesperson added: “While the College understands the unions’ position, it has implemented positive strides to improve conditions for its staff over the past three years, particularly across work-life balance.
“The College remains committed to creating a working environment that’s inclusive, aspirational and accommodating to all its staff, and a learning environment that encourages all its students to find their brilliance.”
Tomorrow (Friday, January 16) will be the final day of the three-day strike.