Exeter UCU works on behalf of our members through collective bargaining, negotiations, and campaigns. But at times our members may need individual advice and representation. UCU members are eligible for expert advice from caseworkers with a wealth of experience and, should the need arise, specialist legal advice and representation.

Problems at work – can we help you?

Restructuring in your Department or Service, bullying, performance matters, disciplinaries, are the kind of issues you may face. Your local UCU representatives are here to help, support and advise.  Any of the Union’s activists are available to speak to you about any problems you may be having. Nothing that you say to any union representative will go any further unless you wish it to.

Contacting EUCU about your case

If you have a personal problem at work, there are a number of things you can do to help  resolve the problem. This brief advice is a useful starting point as is your departmental/service representative, although you are welcome to get directly in touch with a member of the committee if you think it would be more appropriate.

Often problems can be quickly resolved, but when expert advice is needed we can connect you with one of our caseworkers.  Exeter UCU has a team of experienced and trained personal caseworkers. These are volunteer members who provide support, advice and representation to individual members on employment related difficulties.  If you would welcome an opportunity to talk through your issue contact the Branch Secretary or Branch Administrator who will put you in touch with one of our caseworkers. For less urgent issues or general queries, you can speak to one of our caseworkers at one of our virtual drop-in advice sessions.

Support from UCU nationally

UCU’s Support Centre has answers to frequently asked questions about your employment and union membership and offers detailed advice and additional support for members.

As a UCU member, you also have access to a series of member benefits and services.

UCU and EUCU regularly send communications to members. If, for any reason, you think you may not be receiving communications from us, please log in to MyUCU and make sure your details (including employer and preferred contact addresses and emails) are up-to-date.

For all other matters please contact us.

Helplines

Should you need urgent wellbeing support, there are a few helplines:

  • the UCU Sexual Harassment Support Helpline, a dedicated service for UCU members which any UCU member can reach on 0800 138 8724.
  • the Education Support partnership, a charity that supports anyone involved in teaching (across all sectors). They provide a free helpline staffed by trained counsellors, in England, Wales and Scotland 24/7, 365 days a year: UK-wide: 08000 562 561 Txt: 07909 341229 .
  • Pro-cancelling offers University of Exeter staff members and postgraduate research students access to a 24/7 telephone counselling platform to reach a qualified therapist at any time. This can be accessed via an online portal  and a phone on: 0808 1640251.