Precarity in a Pandemic Age: Opposing Fixed-Term Contracts at the University of Oxford

UCU workshop taking place from 13.00-14.00 on Monday 16th November

One third of academic workers in the UK are employed on Fixed-Term Contracts (FTCs). At the University of Oxford, a self-described ‘world leader’ in so many areas, this figure is 67%. The notion that fixed-term teaching-only or research-only contracts are a viable route into permanent employment looks increasingly untenable. Casualisation and precarity are bad for staff and for our students. 71% of respondents to a recent UCU survey reported that they believed their mental health has been damaged by working on insecure contracts. Casualisation and precarity are equalities issues. Nationwide, 42% of BAME staff are on fixed-term contracts. For white academic staff this figure is 32%. [Download the full report here]

Precarious staff have been hit especially hard by the fallout from Covid-19. Grassroots campaigns like #CoronaContract have highlighted the problems facing academic workers on FTCs and fought to secure their livelihoods. 

This event will provide information on the University of Oxford’s use of FTCs. We will also hear from recent grassroots organising efforts. The closing discussion will offer attendees the opportunity to share and discuss their experiences.

You can follow the Oxford UCU Anti-Casualisation Network on Twitter: @OxordAntiCas or email OxfordAntiCas@gmail.com to be added to our mailing list. 

This event is open to UCU members and non-members. We also encourage College-only staff to attend.

Zoom meeting link | Meeting ID: 826 6224 2592 | Passcode: 431636

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