Glasgow Caledonian University staff begin nine more strike days over job cuts

Staff at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) have begun nine further days of strike action over proposed job cuts, extending a dispute that has already disrupted teaching during the autumn term.

The University and College Union (UCU) announced on Oct 26 that its members would strike on Oct 27, 28 and 29, followed by six additional days in November. The planned dates for November are Nov 2, 3, 5, 10, 12 and 13.

The dispute centres on the university’s plans to reduce staffing, including the possibility of compulsory redundancies. UCU has said that up to 100 posts were initially at risk, while up to 40 roles remained at risk following measures including vacancy reductions and voluntary redundancies.

Union questions financial case for job cuts

UCU has challenged the university’s financial justification for compulsory redundancies. The union cited a reported improvement in GCU’s financial position, from a projected deficit of £1.5 million in March to a £5.6 million surplus for 2025/26.

The union has also questioned the university’s reported £4.5 million purchase of nearby land while staff face possible job losses. These concerns form part of UCU’s argument that management should reconsider its approach.

The financial figures and criticism of the university’s decisions have been presented by the union; they do not, on their own, establish the university’s reasons for pursuing the proposed staffing changes.

University says it remains open to negotiations

GCU has said it is disappointed that unions are continuing with strike action rather than negotiating. A university spokesperson told that management was ready to consider a serious counter-proposal from the unions.

The university also said its priority was to support students and non-striking colleagues affected by the industrial action. The vice-chancellor was due to meet regional union representatives during the week of Oct 27 and the following week.

The latest strikes follow earlier walkouts, including action on Oct 15 when all four trade unions at the university took part. UCU said its members would have completed 20 strike days by the end of the newly announced action.

Teaching disruption remains a concern

The prolonged dispute has raised concerns about the impact on students’ teaching and learning. UCU says much of the first term has already been disrupted, although the extent of missed teaching and the effect on individual courses have not been independently established in the reports reviewed.

The nine additional strike days are planned, rather than completed. Their impact will depend on staff participation, the teaching affected and any progress in negotiations between university management and the unions.