FAQ: Proposed changes to your contract of employment
12 July 2021
Why have I received this e-mail?
During Summer 2020 the University engaged in an extensive consultation with UCU and the Staff Forum on ways to mitigate the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the University. Agreement was reached on a number of measures, including a pay freeze in respect of the annual cost of living salary increases. This letter informs you of the changes to your existing terms and conditions in relation to this change.
What do I need to do?
If you are in a role at Grade 6 and above you do not need to take any further action, as UCU, the recognsied trade union for these staff, have already agreed to this contract change on your behalf.
If you are in a role at Grade 1-5, you will need to read the e-mail letter you have been sent and click on the link which will take you to a form. You will then need to read the form, and just click the box to agree to the changes to your terms and conditions. There is nothing else you need to do. This form will be sent back electronically to Human Resources and this will be logged on your electronic personal file.
Will I still get my increment?
Those staff who are entitled to an automatic incremental spinal point will receive these as normal.
If I don’t want to agree to the change, what will happen?
If you are in a role at Grade 1-5 and you do not complete the form to agree to this change to your terms and conditions, you will be contacted by colleagues in Human Resources so they can discuss this with you. Ultimately, if agreement cannot be reached the University will be required to give notice to terminate your current employment contract and offer re-engagement on a new contract that incorporates the change set out in the letter. In these circumstances the University will discuss these proposals with you individually.
When do I need to respond by?
If you are in a role at Grade 1-5 you will need to complete the form and return it on or before Friday 23rd July 2021. Reminders will be sent after this date to those who have not yet responded. Staff in Grade 6 and above do not need to take any further action.
Can I get a hard copy of the letter and form?
If you require a hard copy of the letter and form, please contact HR Operations on HR@Reading.ac.uk or call 0118 3788511 and they will be able to help you.
If I can’t access the form – who do I contact?
If you are not able to access the form via the link please contact HR Operations on HR@Reading.ac.uk or call 0118 3788511 and they will be able to help you.
What happens in August 2023?
The University has agreed that from 1 August 2023, as well as becoming entitled to the agreed cost of living increase for 23/24, your salary will also be adjusted to the salary it would have been at if the pay freeze had not occurred, subject to any phasing agreed with the UCU and Staff Forum.