The Sheffield branch of the University and College Union (UCU) has announced strike action taking place across a span of 17 days in October, November and December 2026. During strike action, staff taking part will not be in work due to the University management’s decision to make huge cuts to staff numbers and the decision to restructure some academic schools.
Strike action is due to take place on:
- Tuesday 27th October
- Wednesday 28th October
- Thursday 29th October
- Friday 30th October
- Monday 2nd November
- Thursday 5th November
- Tuesday 10th November
- Friday 13th November
- Monday 16th November
- Wednesday 18th November
- Monday 23rd November
- Thursday 26th November
- Friday 27th November
- Tuesday 1st December
- Friday 4th December
- Tuesday 8th December
- Wednesday 9th December
During strike action, staff may partake in peaceful protests, including picket lines across campus, including standing outside university buildings on days they are striking.
The University reassures students that strike action will not significantly impact their education due to the fact that not all staff will be striking. Students are expected to attend as normal unless affected by action, furthermore students are warned that, if unable to email in advance, classes could be cancelled with very little notice.
Classes cancelled due to strike action may, however, be rescheduled for later in the semester, which runs up to and including the 18th of December.
The University of Sheffield does provide counselling, therapies and wellbeing services through the Student Mental Health service for students feeling significantly overwhelmed, stressed or uncertain due to strike action: https://students.sheffield.ac.uk/mental-health
The University does claim it is actively attempting to discuss these plans with the UCU to minimise action, with a meeting planned on the 21st of October.
Forge Press will continue to provide updates on strikes as they occur.
