First class science – second rate pay!
Institute of Cancer Research (ICR)workers turned out a resounding 90% yes vote in May to take industrial action over low pay.
This is the first time in the organisation’s 117-year history that workers have taken strike action.
They walked out for two days, then a further three days from 9-11 June and then 15-18 June.
ICR workers said:
“This decision was not taken lightly. It comes after stalled negotiations and a complete breakdown in meaningful engagement from management.
“In 2025, management made a pay offer that ICR Union members overwhelmingly rejected. Since then, they have refused to return to negotiations, walking out of ACAS talks on the very first day and unilaterally imposing the rejected offer. No improved proposal has been made.
“Since the removal of incremental pay scales in 2019, staff have faced an average 16% real‑terms pay cut, mirrored by a 16% drop in per‑capita staff spending. We have colleagues now reporting needing second jobs simply to stay afloat – all while the ICR holds over £500 million in financial reserves.
“This situation is untenable. ICR staff are deeply committed to their research and to the patients who ultimately depend on it. Yet for the first time in the institution’s history, they have voted for industrial action to defend fair pay and a sustainable workforce.”
Support the Strike Fund
To ensure colleagues can sustain this action, financial solidarity is essential. Contributions to the strike fund help support those facing hardship during the dispute. If you are able, please donate – every contribution strengthens our collective effort.
Our branch (LE524) is facilitating the strike fund, details below:
Account Name: Unite LE/524 Branch
Swift Code (BIC): NWBKGB2L
IBAN Number: GB93NWBK60023571418024
Sort Code: 608301
Account Number: 30010808
When donations are. made, please make sure to add the reference: ICR Strike Fund
Bank is Unity Trust
Images from the strike
Thanks to Aidan Doyle for images and videos