By Megan Mackay: University lecturers across Staffordshire will strike tomorrow (March 24) against proposed changes in pay and pensions.

The industrial action is being backed by the University and College Unions (UCU), meaning many lectures and seminars could will be cancelled.

Staffordshire University is urging students to check with their lecturers to see if classes are affected.

Sita Bali, a union representative at the College Road campus in Stoke-on-Trent, said: “We are striking for two reasons.

“The unsettled pay claim where employers are offering a rise of 0.4% and the downturn in our pensions.

“It looks like we will have to work longer, contribute more and receive less.”

The action comes as many feel the proposed increase of 0.4% does not keep in line with inflation, still resulting in a cut.

The protests are also to highlight support with the trade unions against the government’s cuts agenda.

Ms Bali said the main aim of the protest is to “make the government rethink the changes to pensions above all else.”

More information on the protests is available at http://www.ucu.org.uk