University of Plymouth avoids compulsory redundancies

Following the review of academic staff, where all necessary savings were achieved through voluntary means, the review of professional support areas has now been completed with the same positive outcome. The Strategic Review commenced in June 2008 when it was announced that in order to achieve the necessary savings, the staffing contingent would need to be reduced by approximately 220 posts across the University. From the outset of the process, the University has maintained its commitment to making every effort to obtain the necessary savings through voluntary means and is delighted to have achieved the best possible outcome. Professor Wendy Purcell, University of Plymouth Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive commented; "This represents a highly significant achievement arising from the efforts and cooperation between the recognised trade unions and the University's senior management. The support of these two parties has been instrumental in helping us to achieve this outcome. "I would like to express my sincere thanks to all staff across the University for their patience, cooperation and professionalism during this difficult time and I am delighted to now be able to provide the reassurance that they have been hoping for. "I consider that the University is now much better placed to achieve its strategic objectives and vision to become a first-choice first-class university serving the city and region and I am confident that we can now look towards a bright and sustainable future." Kevin Owen, UNISON Branch Secretary said; "After many months of negotiations, this really is the best possible outcome.