Updated September 2023
As part of ongoing industrial action as a response to national disputes about pay and other matters across the university sector, the University and College Union (UCU), one of LSE's recognised trade unions that represents some staff, undertook a marking and assessment boycott with effect from 20 April 2023. This marking and assessment boycott has now ended.
The national dispute continues and UCU has announced national strike action from 25-29 September. LSE’s local University and College Union (UCU) branch voted to seek an exemption from participating in industrial action planned across the UK higher education sector during this time, and this has been granted.
This means that there will be no strike action at LSE on these dates. Campus will be open as usual and all scheduled teaching, learning and student experience activities will go ahead as planned. Action short of a strike will continue.
The content below sets out some key information for staff about industrial action and where to find out further details.
Declaration of participation in industrial action
Staff intending to participate should read LSE's guidelines on industrial action and LSE's frequently asked questions for specific information on the assessment and marking boycott. FAQs detail both reporting arrangements and potential impact on pay and pension benefits. It is also recommended that managers familiarise themselves with these documents outlining LSE’s approach to managing industrial action.
Although there will be no strike action at LSE, staff taking part in action short of a strike must declare their participation to LSE by completing the self-declaration form (link below). Whilst there is no obligation to inform LSE prior to strike action, staff intending to participate are encouraged to do so or as soon as possible afterwards and no later than the end of the day on 2 October 2023.
Staff taking continuous action short of a strike are only required to complete the form on one occasion, but industrial action must not be taken without doing so.
Form to declare participation in industrial action:
Declaration of participation in Industrial Action from 25 September 2023
Staff reporting sickness during any industrial action period may be asked to produce a medical certificate in respect of their absence.
If leaders or managers have any specific issues or queries, HR Partners can provide support in the first instance.
Resources and further information: