Art college hoping to avoid compulsory redundancies

Cleveland College of Art and Design, which has sites in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough, has confirmed they are looking to restructure, which could lead to redundancies.

Members of the UCU, University and College Union, met with senior college management, to discuss the announcement of the compulsory redundancies.

Initially union bosses expressed their concerns at the way the announcement had been handled.

They said members were told on Monday of the meetings to discuss potential redundancy and were told they had until Thursday to express interest in applying for a new post.

The union condemned the three-day notice period for staff to consider their options as "totally inadequate".

UCU officials said the college had failed to consult properly or follow its own agreed redundancy procedures.

However, following the management and union meeting, the college said they were both committed to a consultation process and wish to work towards a solution that avoids the need for compulsory redundancies.

With this in mind the college has agreed to extend the consultation process, postpone the deadline for individuals to express interest in new posts, continue to ask for comments and feedback from those affected and look at ways of mitigating the impact of redundancies.

The union will meet with college bosses again on Tuesday, June 28.

Stuart Slorach, Vice-Principal of CCAD said: "The college is committed to continue consultation with its staff and the trade union and we are hoping that this extended period allows us to move forward in partnership. We look forward to working with UCU to the benefit of our staff and students.

"CCAD is in outstanding financial health, but to stay that way and ensure we meet the needs of our current and future students, we regularly review our staffing.

"In this case 10 people have been issued at risk notices, but have the opportunity to apply for seven jobs."

Following the meeting, Mr Bryan, said: "We are pleased that the college met with us to discuss our concerns and we hope that we can continue to meet and agree ways where compulsory redundancies can be avoided.”