University of Manchester announces compensation for strikes

The University of Manchester and the Students' Union have reached an agreement on how students will be compensated for the strikes.

In statement released today, the university said that whilst they have not benefited financially from the strikes and "the money forgone from staff salaries will benefit students through new and additional activities".

Following student consultation, the strike pay will:

1. Waive the fee for graduation gown hire, around £50 per student, for graduation ceremonies in July and December 2018. We are working on details of how to reimburse those who have already paid for their July graduation gowns.

2. Investing in support for student well-being including those with mental ill-health. We agree that students’ wellbeing is of paramount importance and wish to use the fund to promote joint actions around the prevention of mental health problems for students continuing their studies. Further details will follow once we have consulted with students and health experts.

The email, sent from Alex Tayler, General Secretary at the Students' Union, and Clive Agnew, Vice President, also disclosed that financial compensation had been discussed.

"The University Union Relations Committee also discussed other options and it was agreed that we would look at improving communications around the existing student hardship funds; explore an option for a postgraduate futures event in July and consider how we might extend careers advice for and with our alumni. These actions would not require strike pay funding."

They have reassured students that strike action will not interfere with any future student graduations.

"If any student remains dissatisfied, there are established appeal and complaint procedures that your school can advise you on."

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