Solidarity

Chesterfield members 

I am writing from Sunderland College branch where we have faced 5 consecutive years of redundancies, re-modelling and general attacks to our terms and conditions.  In our case, we were told the cuts last year were a necessity because of funding cuts so we reluctantly (after strike action and an improved offer) agreed to them.  We recently found out that the College made over £2 million pounds profit and that the cuts, in fact, were not necessary.

Sunderland Branch are disgusted that your management are cutting lecturing posts at a time when 16-19 funding is increasing, particularly as there have already been cuts over the last 2 years.  We have a difficult job to do and cynical attacks like this do nothing for staff morale – which is key to a successful organisation.  Good luck with your battle and if there is anything we can do to support you, please let me know.

Yours in solidarity

Cath Hepburn

Branch Vice-Chair, Sunderland College

NEC and FEC member – Northern Region