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December, 2016:

It couldn’t happen at a university?

Apart from the UCU web site, we have a number of valuable sources of information. Wonkhe is building a considerable reputation, and of course many of us buy the Times Higher Education Supplement. For wider employment issues, there are the Labour Research Department publications, and the Hazards Campaign on health and safety; this has strong involvement from our old friend Jon Bamford.

Among the press, we have worryingly few friends. I read the Guardian most days, but recently the news is sometimes so bad that I can only face the Sudoku. By far my best source of news is my subscription to Ian Hislop’s Private Eye. They do some really good Christmas cards too; unfortunately, you are now too late to either buy or post them.

As Ian almost never wins in court, I feel safe in attaching a tiny sample from last week’s edition. It couldn’t happen in a university, could it?

Denis A Nicole
Southampton University UCU Branch President

Festive drinks with officers from your local branch – 14 December

 

Local UCU officers would like to invite you for end of year drinks at The Bookshop Alehouse on Wednesday 14th December from 17.30, Christmas jumpers optional but welcomed.  It would be great to see you there. 

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186299-d10202897-Reviews-The_Bookshop_Alehouse-Southampton_Hampshire_England.html

 

 

 

UCU caseworker training

Southampton UCU is currently looking for more members to become caseworkers to support fellow members when facing problems in the workplace.  This year so far our local group of volunteer caseworkers has supported over 70 members on matters ranging from formal procedures (such as disciplinary and capability) to providing advice on probation, contractual concerns and bullying.  This small group has done a fantastic job but we need more resources to be able to provide such support. 

We have arranged a one-day Introduction to Casework training course in Southampton on Tuesday 10 January.  This one-day course will give a basic understanding of the role of the caseworker including how to support a member, the UCU legal scheme and knowledge of policies and procedures. 

We really do need to expand our caseworker resource so if you are interested in supporting fellow members then please consider registering for the course.  Further details can be found here:  http://www.ucu.org.uk/caseworksouthampton.   If you would like to chat about what the role entails then please email UCU or call Amanda on Ext 22364.