Unite, the UK’s leading trade union, has secured a formal recognition agreement with EMCOR UK for workers delivering facilities management services at Oxford University.

This marks a significant step forward for staff rights and representation on the prestigious campus, giving Unite the legal framework to engage in collective bargaining on behalf of EMCOR staff at Oxford University and enabling the union to negotiate improvements in pay, job security, shift patterns and holiday entitlements.

EMCOR UK, a subsidiary of the Fortune 500-listed EMCOR Group, Inc, is a major provider of mechanical and electrical construction, facilities management, and infrastructure services.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This excellent win comes after a lot of hard work and determined organising by our reps and officials at EMCOR UK.

"It is a crucial step forward, which will help improve jobs, pay and conditions for staff at the company."

The recognition agreement, overwhelmingly backed by 100 per cent of Unite members on the contract, follows 18 months of sustained efforts by the union to secure a formal voice for EMCOR employees within the workplace.

Unite regional officer Nick Owen said: "This success is a direct result of the dedication of our Unite workplace reps who have worked tirelessly to show the value of union representation.

“It is a significant milestone, and we now look forward to negotiating the best possible outcomes for our members at EMCOR.”

ENDS