Over 50 staffs were dismissed from Sheffield’s universities

University of Sheffield

More than 50 staff from Sheffield’s two universities has been dismissed in the last three years, new figures show.

The University of Sheffield dismissed 33 employees, and Sheffield Hallam University 21, between 2009 and 2012.

Information obtained through The Star’s Your Right to Know campaign shows the majority of dismissals at Sheffield Hallam were over conduct or attendance.

One was for breach of contract and two failed probationary periods.

Phillip Dixon, human resources director, said the figure of 21 staff represented around 0.1 per cent of the total university workforce per year.

He added: “It is important to emphasise the university takes its responsibility in this area very seriously and, where dismissal decisions have been necessary, they have only been exercised after a great deal of care and consideration. While we are we are committed to resolving issues informally where possible, it is important we can effectively address issues around conduct or capability to maintain our high standards of performance.”

At The University of Sheffield, 15 staff were dismissed over conduct and eight for capability. The remainder came under the category ‘some other substantial reason’.

A spokesman said: “The university employs more than 6,000 staff and is committed to developing a culture of excellence, collaboration, innovation, commitment and respect. We believe we can succeed only by creating the right environment where every person can flourish and is supported.”

Both employers said procedures were thorough, impartial and agreed with trade unions.