‘A devastating blow’: Newcastle University to cut 38 more jobs amid budget cuts

Newcastle University is set to cut a further 38 jobs to reduce staff costs, despite ongoing strike action from staff protesting the measures.

257 staff have already taken voluntary severance, but more roles are at risk as a £3.8 million shortfall remains. The uni previously announced it needs to reduce its salary budget by £20 million.

David Bates, secretary of Newcastle University UCU, spoke of the economic situation affecting universities including Newcastle: “This news will come as a devastating blow to our hard working members.

“Already we have spoken to staff who are in tears about potentially losing their job. We will not give up the fight: an injury to one is an injury to all.”

Matt Perry, Newcastle UCU branch chair and lecturer, added: “This is the same story as many, many universities; the damage to a world leading sector of the UK economy will be difficult to repair.” 

In September 2023, the Local Democracy Reporting Service revealed Newcastle uni had a £35 million funding gap. This has been attributed to a decline in international student numbers, a vital income stream for most UK universities. 

The university maintains that the cost cutting measures are necessary, despite strike protests from staff that have significantly impacted teaching since March. Intermittent strike action took place between 4th and 28th March, resumed on 28th April, and is set to continue intermittently until 28th June.

Most Read

A deep dive into Carina Mirabile’s many, many attempts at fame before MAFS Australia

The creepy real reason Netflix removed this Black Mirror episode over the weekend

Paul is apparently dating someone after MAFS Australia and erm, you might recognise her

A university spokesperson said: “Like many universities across the UK, we are seeking to reduce our staff costs to safeguard our long term future as a globally leading university. We have achieved the majority of the savings needed through a voluntary severance scheme and other savings, and while this represents a substantial step forward, there is a shortfall of £3.8 million. 

“Regrettably, this means we must now move forward with the next phase, which will affect around 38 roles… Our proposals for further savings will preserve the breadth of our research and education, avoiding subject closures, and we are consulting with our trade unions to avoid compulsory redundancies wherever possible.

“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and we continue to support our staff throughout this challenging time.” 

Unless the university and the union reach a settlement imminently, students face ongoing strike disruption throughout exam season and staff remain at risk of redundancy

Featured image via Instagram @newcastleuniucu