Higher education pay 2025-26
Our members keep universities functioning. When it comes to setting budgets, support staff pay should always be on the priority list
There is a major crisis within higher education
After years of low pay, below inflation offers and the continuing cost of living crisis, your pay should be a top priority
Support staff pay should always be on the priority list
Earlier this year, the Universities and Colleges Employers Association proposed a 1.4% increase on all pay points. With inflation at 4.8%, this amounts to a 3.4% pay cut for in real terms.
This is the lowest offer of all public sector areas.
UNISON members voted overwhelmingly to reject the offer in an online consultation that ran from 18 June to 11 July. The joint higher education unions (EIS, GMB, UCU, and Unite) also rejected the offer.
Along with other HE unions, UNISON ran a postal ballot for strike action over the 1.4% pay offer. Over 89% of UNISON members who took part voted yes to take strike action over the offer. We also surpassed the 50% turnout required for the results to be valid.
UNISON members in branches that met the 50% turnout threshold are taking industrial action. If your branch is taking action, you will be informed. Materials such as placards and leaflets are available on the UNISON shop.
UNISON members in branches that were close to the 50% turnout threshold are being re-balloted. The ballot will run 27 February – 27 March 2026. If you work in one of those branches you will be contacted via email and your ballot papers will arrive via a green envelope – look out for them!
What can I do?
Higher education pay 2025/26
Latest news from UNISON
News
UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside awards evening winners
Meet the winners from our 2026 awards night
Become a member today
Join over 1.3 million members committed to fairness, safety and equality at work.
Get advice, support and help when you need it at work.
Invite a friend to join
Talk to your colleagues about joining a community of over 1.3 million members committed to fairness, safety and equality at work.
Together we're stronger.