The first Union Council meeting of the year took place on 16 October, welcoming students to S3.01 and online. The session outlined major campaigns and gave students a chance to help shape what the union will focus on this year.
President Jean Marc Amagoua started his update talking about off student safety and transport, highlighting talks with MP Emma Reynolds about free travel for under-22s. He also promoted the Black History Month conference and encouraged students in halls to complete the Wi-Fi survey.
VP Achievement & Belonging Joe Burrell focused on community campaigns. Movember will bring free haircuts and a 5K challenge, while the Rainbow Laces campaign has already received over 80 pledges. RAG Week is also just around the corner.
VP Education & Welfare (HW) Erin Cook shared plans around student safety in the Frogmore area, new awareness campaigns and an upcoming wellness fair on 24 October.
VP Education & Welfare (UXB/AYLS) Bethany Jackson highlighted work on mental health support, campus consistency and academic experience, with a focus on making sure commuting and international students are included.
Students then used a QR code poll to vote on the issues that matter most to them. The top four themes were careers and employability, student voice, mental health and wellbeing, and academic experience, which will set the agenda for Union Council meetings going forward.
There was also a spotlight on the Leadership Academy, which gives students the chance to build skills and confidence. Officers shared how the academy helped them with things like public speaking, time management, and CV building.
During the first Officer Hot Seat Q&A, students raised topics including activities for international students, circuit laundry problems, how to launch their own campaigns, and the benefits of student jobs versus outside work.
Following the meeting, elections for our 2025-26 Union Council Chair were held. We are delighted to announce that Sameer Pathan has been elected as Chair for this year. The next Union Council meeting is set for Thursday 20 November at 5.00pm in S3.01 and online.