University of Essex Announcement

Earlier today, the University of Essex announced two major cost-saving decisions as part of its work to secure long-term financial sustainability.

These are:

1. The closure of the Southend Campus from the 2026/27 academic year, and
2. The introduction of a redundancy programme affecting academic and professional services staff.

You can find the University’s full announcement, including detailed FAQs and support information, on the University website. This is where you’ll find the official updates, timelines and processes.

I understand that this news can be a lot to take in. Some of you may feel shocked, frustrated or overwhelmed; others may simply have questions about what happens next. Before anything else, we want to make one thing clear: You are our number one priority. Going forward, transparency and your feedback will be at the core of any action we take.

Every conversation we have with the University will stem from these principles.

Quick links:

 

Why this is happening

Unfortunately, these challenges are not unique to Essex. The entire UK higher education sector is under intense pressure:

  • 43% of UK universities are expected to be in deficit this year.
  • Many institutions have already announced restructures, campus closures and cost-saving programmes.

This alarming reality demonstrates that the current funding model for higher education isn’t working, and it is students and staff across the country who are feeling the impact of government inaction. As your Students’ Union, we are adding our voice to calls for urgent structural reform.

 

How this impacts students

These decisions will affect students in different ways. For many, this news will spark questions about your course, your teaching, your wellbeing, or your wider student experience.

For students based in Southend, the University has confirmed that students due to complete their course by 1 October 2026 will be able to do so in Southend. Those continuing beyond that date will complete their studies in Colchester campus. We know that transferring can cause certain disruptions, which is why we will be working closely with students, reps, and University teams to provide adequate support and be proactive in our approach to understand what you need.

Wherever you study; Colchester, Southend or Loughton, we will do everything we can to make sure your voice is heard and that your feedback genuinely shapes what happens next.

 

What we’re doing

Over the coming weeks and months, your Students’ Union will be:

  • Listening carefully to what you tell us through the Tell Us How You’re Feeling survey launching tomorrow, and taking it directly to the University. This form focuses on the questions that aren’t in the University’s FAQs - your feelings, concerns and the support you need.
  • Pushing for clear, timely updates, so you’re not left guessing at any stage.
  • Challenging anything that risks the student experience.
  • Working to minimise disruption wherever possible

 

Support available

If you need support, please reach out. You’re not alone.

 

Speak directly to the Vice-Chancellor

You’re invited to a Q&A with Vice-Chancellor Frances Bowen on:

Thursday 4 December at 6.30pm

This session is open to students from Colchester, Southend and Loughton.

It’s your chance to share your questions and concerns directly with the VC, and we would strongly encourage you to attend if you’re able to.

FIND OUT MORE

 

Finally…

These are significant changes, and we know they will affect students differently. But one thing will not change: your needs come first, and you will always be at the heart of everything we do.

We’re here to stand with you, support you, and make sure your voice is heard at every step.

If you have concerns, questions or ideas please talk to us. We’re listening.

Alex Sablich Iraola, SU President

on behalf of Essex Students’ Union

FAQs

The University has put together a list of answers to questions you may have. Find the FAQs here.
 

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