Staff cuts at Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union threaten wellbeing, says trade union

A total of 32 full-time employees have been formally placed ‘at risk’ of redundancy by the organisation because of plans to close the Students’ Union bar, café and help desk.

Management at the Students’ Union, which is funded by Sheffield Hallam University but independently run, argue that the restructure is necessary to increase student engagement, prioritise representation, and decrease operating costs.

But Unison which represents the staff under threat says the proposals will not only reduce face-to-face contact but also affect student wellbeing and the quality of their university experience.

Unison regional manager Leonie Sharp said: “Staff are being punished for years of under-investment, poor management and the impact of Covid-19. They’re a dedicated group who support students and provide services that save the Students’ Union money.

“Some of the plans proposed could damage the university's ability to recruit students.”

Unison Sheffield Hallam branch secretary Dan Bye added: “Staff have worked hard throughout the pandemic.

“This is a betrayal that would see staff lose their jobs in the middle of the largest recession ever to hit the UK. Alternative proposals are needed that protect jobs and the future of the Students’ Union.”

Fears for jobs as Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union threatens to axe 40 per cent of staff

Sheffield Hallam Students' Union said it is working to match staff with positions within the proposed new structure and create new jobs roles for consideration, with around 15 redundancies expected to be made overall.

The organisation added: “The Students' Union has the ambition to reach a diverse tech savvy audience and react quickly to their needs. This equates to a change in priorities and practises, and a move towards digital services.

"As a response to these factors, the organisation is undergoing a strategic development process and intends to deliver services to suit the changing student circumstances.

“These changes have meant that very difficult staffing decisions are being made. A number of roles within the Students’ Union are now formally ‘at risk’, and we are working with our employees and their representatives to arrive at the best outcome under very difficult circumstances.”

An online petition to stop the redundancies has now gathered over 300 signatures.

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