University employers have made offers in disputes over pay, working conditions and pensions.

The offer paves the way for the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) pension to be restored by April 2024, to end the use of involuntary zero-hour contracts in higher education.

It also agrees to new standards, frameworks and principals to tackle other forms of casualised contracts, reduce workloads and close equality pay gaps.

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UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: "At the time of strike action and after weeks of intensive negotiations, university employers have finally agreed to put forward a set of proposals on pay, conditions and pensions.

"This breakthrough is down to the strength, determination and sacrifice of university workers who have stood on picket lines."

A University of Hertfordshire rep confirmed HEC (higher education committee) will be meeting this afternoon to make decisions on the current offer/national dispute.

                                                                                                        

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The strikes will end if a deal is agreed on pay and the other elements of the unions’ claims.

Otherwise, the UCU’s mandate for taking action expires in April, which would mean that the union legally cannot strike until it has reballoted its members.

The industrial actions reballot closed on Sunday, March 26.

UCU is hopeful of securing another “yes” vote.