Durham University staff informed of pay deductions ahead of strike action

June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 Abigail Tobias 0 Comments Isla Mustin

By Isla Mustin

Durham University staff have been informed they could face pay deductions of up to 100% of their contractual salary for each day of participation in upcoming industrial action, including action short of a strike (ASOS).

The email, sent on behalf of Joanne Race, Director of Human Resources & Organisation Development, was directed at staff intending to take part in the planned strike action by Durham UCU, scheduled for Friday 13th, Saturday 14th and Thursday 19th June.

The University stated that it “does not accept no or partial performance of duties by any member of staff,” and confirmed that staff participating in strike action will be considered in breach of their contract of employment.

The University stated that it “does not accept no or partial performance of duties by any member of staff,” and confirmed that staff participating in strike action will be considered in breach of their contract of employment

For strike days, the University will deduct pay at a rate of 1/365th per day, except for Saturday 14th  June, when no deduction will be made. However, the University “reserves the right to deduct pay for future strike action which falls on a Saturday.”

The message also confirmed that continuous ASOS, which began on Monday 28th April 2025 will continue.

This currently includes working only the nominal hours specified in employment contracts, not undertaking voluntary duties, not providing cover for absent colleagues or non-replaced staff, and boycotting activities relating to the Research Excellence Framework. 
 

While the University has chosen to not withhold pay for participation in ASOS at this time, it “retains the right to deduct up to 100% of salary where participation in ASOS is considered to constitute a breach of contract.”

Pay deductions will be made in July’s payroll, and staff are required to inform the University of any participation in strike action, including Saturday 14th June, however they are not obliged to do so in advance.