University of Leeds support staff strike over pay

The strike action at the University of Leeds will last until Friday

Support staff at the University of Leeds have started a three-day strike in a dispute over pay.

Members of Unison, including cleaners, porters and library staff have walked out.

Angela Blackburn from the union apologised for the disruption to students but said industrial action was a "last resort" as staff "cannot afford to live" on their current wages.

A university spokesperson said it was "taking action where we can".

Ms Blackburn said some members had had to take second jobs and turn to food banks for support.

"[They are] working full-time during the week here and working in the evenings and weekends," she said.

"They're having to use food banks. They're having to claim benefits for the first time."

The union said that staff rejected a 3% pay rise, having asked for 2% above the rate of inflation, which currently stands at 8.6%, according to the latest figures.

Staff earning below £25,000 were offered a higher rate based on a sliding scale.

Further industrial action is planned in October as part of a national campaign by the union.

A spokesperson for the University of Leeds said: "Although we cannot support the industrial action, the University continues to work with our trades unions to improve employment terms and support our lowest paid staff.

"We are taking action where we can in these difficult times, which has included making extra payments of £650 in July to all colleagues on our lower pay grades.

"The University is also increasing the level of its Staff Assistance Fund, which supports colleagues facing financial difficulties."