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CANDIDATE MANIFESTOS HELLO
www.edgehillsu.org.uk
PRESIDENT
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PRESIDENT My name is Benjamin Lewis. I am a postgrad FE teaching student. I have been here since 2015, and I have seen a lot of presidents come and go. I believe that you are the boss of the SU and that we should work for you, rather than a few. The only way the SU is going to change is if we demand it. I believe we can make the 2020's a decade to remember. I am someone with 20/20 vision, and I have so many ideas to share with you: 1. New quality standards for accommodation on and off campus. A real push for lifts, washing machines, and Benjamin Lewis accessible toilets for all students. 2. Lighting on the Ruff Lane Entrance. 3. I want the SU to commit to expanding the menstruation stations, to include contraception stations as well. 4. Accountability for all SU staff, to make sure we do our jobs properly. 5. Continued support of a people’s vote, to help undo the damage of Brexit and the threat to university funding and Erasmus students. 6. Better help for mature and postgraduate students, who have work or children to worry about, as well as studies. 7. Guaranteed funding for new societies and sports teams. 8. Maintain the work done this last year by students (such as myself) and the SU staff to improve parking. 9. CAKE! (Alright, maybe not that one) I think that the Students' Union has done a great job, contrary to what some may think about me. I haven't always been the most erudite person, but all of my opinions come from the heart. I will put my heart into the SU. So, rather than elect the same person, again and again, I say to you:
ROCK THE VOTE!
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PRESIDENT My experience as the elected Women’s officer in the Edge Hill Students' Union means I have been involved in the campaigns of the current sabbatical officers, particularly the VP Welfare, including the consent campaign, menstruation stations, and world mental health day, as well as currently working on projects for Women’s History Month in March. I have worked with Students’ Union staff to help with events and campaigns across a variety of areas including activities not limited to my role as a part time officer. I regularly attend meetings such as student council, LGBTQ+ committee, and Kate Vickers the Policy and Campaigns Committee and hold an elected position in the commercial insight group. In previous years I have also worked for Campus Life, meaning I have a good understanding of the University from both outside and within our union. As President, I hope to work on the following campaigns: • Giving the students in the faculty of health and social care a graduation ball that is organised by the university the same as other courses have. • In conjunction with the VP Welfare, improve the safety of our campus by increasing lighting around campus and urging facilities management to quickly repair broken lighting. • Promote a more transparent Students’ Union, making sure campaign information and the minutes from meetings are uploaded consistently and in a timely manner to highlight the positive work the SU does, and to offer students the opportunity to understand how the SU works from the inside. • Liaise with the VP Activities to better promote sporting events on and off campus, offering the opportunity for more students to spectate and participate. • Work to improve the SU relationship with the university, particularly with departments such as Campus Life, and try to work on key issues such as parking and transport.
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PRESIDENT Running for President is something that I have always considered: I've always had the interest, the passion and the understanding to want to be President, but something has always stopped me. I always said that I would take the plunge in my third year, and as my ďŹ nal year starts to come to a close, I think I am ready to put myself out their and do it. Tom Dodd
A little bit about myself:
I am a third year Film Studies with Film Production student, I've been a Edge Hill Hockey player/ club member for three years, I was student governor in my second year as well as Open Rep in the Policy and Campaigns committee and open rep in the newly appointed Student council. I could go on and on about what I want to do for the SU, so I will save that for my manifesto: what I will say though, is that it shouldn't be what I want to do, but what the students want done. As such, one thing I will promise is that if I do become your president, I will be listening to what you want done and represent you guys accordingly. Thank you for reading! Tom Dodd A.K.A Bario
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VP WELFARE
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VP WELFARE I'm Chris Wadeson, your best choice for Welfare Officer for next year. If elected I will: 1) Seek to create and improve links between University Officers both at Edge Hill and local Universities. 2) Promote inclusivity for students studying at Edge Hill University 3) Provide a mediation service for societies, groups and individuals who would like to resolve conflicts 4) Continue and expand upon the progress made by the previous Officer in the area of mental health
Christopher Wadeson
MANIFESTO: Hi, My name is Chris Wadeson, my Degree is in Health Wellbeing and Social Care and I am standing to be your welfare officer for the coming academic year 2019/2020. I believe it is really important to have someone who is extremely dedicated and concerned with the student affairs on and off campus hence why I decided to run for this post. Why should you vote for me? • EXCELLENT WELFARE: Welfare is not just about providing a high level of well-being and social support for the student but also making sure all students enjoy this second to none welfare while studying at the university. • RE-DEFINE STUDENT LIFE: Being honest, one of the major deciding factors of choosing a university to study is the student life and with the contact we have made as a union, I intend to promote student life on campus while also adhering to rules and by-laws of the university and the surrounding community. • INCREASE PARTICIPATION: I will ensure activities are being put in place to ensure increased participation of students living off-campus and those studying and commuting from home. • EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES: I will ensure if voted into office that all the different student sections (e.g. mature student, international student, undergraduate, postgraduate, disabled, etc.) all enjoy same facilities and equal student experience.
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VP WELFARE Hey there, I'm Connor Spencer, currently a Computing and Game Programming Student in my third year. I do plan on taking a Master's but would love this position if I can get it. As someone who has been on the campus for four years now, dealt with mental illness within this Conner Spencer time, and talked to many people across many dierent years of university, I feel I understand how important it is to have a support structure, be that simply friends at university to talk to or the expert help at moorhouse. Isolation is one of the biggest issues faced by young people today, be it anxiety, depression or other personal issues keeping people trapped within their room. I would like to help these people escape the cycle of isolation that plagues them, especially those moving to a new place and living with new people. Not everyone is going to have the same interest as everyone else within their dorm, or may feel distant for other reasons beyond their control, I would like for everyone who feels like this to have somewhere to go after their class is done or on their days o, be it a society that embodies one of their key interests or other events that can be set up.
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VP WELFARE Hi! My name is Gary Plunkett and I am running for SU Vice-President Welfare. I have been at Edge Hill for a year as a Secondary PGCE student. I have totally immersed myself in the Edge Hill University lifestyle and joined the American Football team alongside Nathaniel, who is running for VP Activities, not to mention being the person on my course who organised a Facebook forum for us to all collaborate and share ideas!
Gary Plunkett
I have experience running alongside my local Labour constituency, running for Social Media officer for Liverpool Momentum and working as a Social Media and Events Co-ordinator for a company that now has over 9000 followers.
I would like to raise awareness for the Student Hardship Fund and how beneficial it can be for students in need of extra financial help. I would like to create a page on Edge Hill's website that features success stories from people who have used it (anonymous if requested) to raise awareness for the extra help available for students who need it. Secondly, I would like to advertise a monthly drop-in for students to raise concerns face to face. I would like to make all parts of the University (from finance and wellbeing, to accommodation and catering) accountable and so would make sure that as many parts of the University are represented in these drop-ins. Furthermore, student safety is paramount! Therefore, I would like to introduce an approachable complaints commission to raise issues students have that affect their safety around campus, in accommodation and out and about in Ormskirk. Finally, I would like to support all students in their overall wellbeing by continuing the fantastic work done by the current VP Welfare on Mental Health and to add to this by offering support on LGBTQ+, BAME and other part-time officers.
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VP WELFARE Hi I’m George, You may remember me from my previous work in the Edge Hill feminist society or just out and about around Ormskirk. I'm passionate about bringing a positive vibe to Edge Hill and supporting all students in any way I can. Now I’m not saying I have all the answers, but I do have a few ideas up my sleeve to try and make Edge Hill a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
George Wright
THINGS SUCH AS:
IMPROVING SPORTS & PHYSIOTHERAPY FACILITIES - Edge Hill is full of students who take part in regular sports activities, but for a Uni with so many sports students there is hardly any support for them. I want to bring quality physiotherapy services to campus that students can see if they’ve had an injury during sport. WORKING WITH WELLBEING SERVICES - I’ll be talking to people about their experiences with the Edge Hill Health and Well-being team, including the Money Advice services, and seeing what improvements can be made. HELPING PEOPLE WITH OFF-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION - I want to hear your opinions on the private landlords and letting agencies in Ormskirk and help support students who are going through a hard time with them. BETTER SEXUAL HEALTH SUPPORT - Getting tested for STI’s can be a stressful and embarrassing situation, and travelling to Liverpool to get tested can be inconvenient as wait times can be frustratingly long. I want to get Test & Go kits available on campus so people can get tested easier and be safer sexually. AND OF COURSE, I’m going to be pushing for better parking and transport. This is an issue that needs solving and it will be one of my top priorities to solve it. I PROMISE TO WORK EVERY DAY TO BRING POSITIVE CHANGE TO EDGE HILL AND MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR EVERY STUDENT.
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VP WELFARE Hi I’m Molly and I am running to be Re-Elected as your VP Welfare! This year, I have delivered on all on my campaigns and now I want to grow these and expand on them even more! I have adored being in the role this year and there's so much more I want to do!
Molly Houghton
SAFE NIGHT OUT! * Collaborating with a local taxi company to allow students to pay for taxis home with their uni card, and then go collect their uni card the next day and pay the fair then. This way students can get taxis home if they feel unsafe without having to worry about walking to a cash point.
AN ACCESSIBLE UNION! * To Lobby the university to allow printing on coloured paper for students with accessibility needs. As well as ensuring the union continues to keep all media accessible with plain text versions of guides and captioned videos. CONSTANT CONSENT! * To continue the consent campaign to more than just a workshop in welcome week to a more continuous campaign throughout the year. And lobby local Ormskirk bars to adopt the 'Ask for Angela' system. NOT ALL DISABILITIES ARE VISIBLE! * I want to run a campaign to raise awareness of non-visible disabilities and how they can affect your time here. I want to focus on how we can be inclusive of them as well as teaching basic sign language to catering staff and security. MENTAL HEALTH FOR ALL! * I want to continue my mental health campaigns from this year by making awareness days such as World Mental Health Day and Men's Mental Health day even bigger, and let all students know it's okay not to be okay. As well as this, I want to ensure those students out on placements are supported in their mental health.
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VP WELFARE Hi Everyone, My name's Nathan Ryding and I am standing to be your new VP for Welfare. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: I am currently the National Chairman of a UK youth organisation where I make sure all young people involved have a voice and are represented fairly and equally.
Nathan Ryding
I served in the British Army for just over a year, straight after completing high school, then decided to leave to further my education. During my time in the Army, I was promoted to Junior Corporal which made me responsible for a section of lads, making sure they were being treated equally and that no bullying was occurring.
MANIFESTO/PROMISES 1) I will work with every single student and every society to make sure the University is meeting their needs and requirements. 2) I will ensure there will be no discrimination of any kind on campus, whether that be from students or faculty. This goes for Gender, Sexuality, Race, Ideological Beliefs or Religion. 3) I will work alongside all other elected SU oďŹƒcers and committees to make sure YOUR experience at Edge Hill is a safe and happy one. 4) I will always keep my door open for any and all students that wish to speak to me, whether in person or email, about any troubles their having or any idea they may have. 5) There are many important dates throughout the year and it's crucial that we, as a university, promote them and work with those interested. Thank you for reading my Manifesto Promises. Please vote for Nathan Ryding for VP Welfare.
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VP WELFARE SU
Hi. I’m Paul Shacksmyth You may have noticed I’m not putting any posters up around campus. That’s because I think if you’re here to vote you’ll probably want to read all the manifestos, and I’m hoping that mine will encourage you to vote for me.
Paul Shacksmyth
I think I’d make a great inclusive VP Welfare Officer for Edge Hill University. I’ve got experience volunteering for organisations such as Comics Youth who work with marginalised youth up to the age of 25 including neuro diverse individuals and those who identify as LGBTQI+ as well as people with disabilities.
I have also acted as a volunteer advocate for neuro diverse and trans people in dealing with official bodies such as HMRC and primary care trusts. Here are the key things I’d like to implement if you elect me. • Continue with all of Molly Houghton’s great campaigns and initiatives • No one left behind! Promote total inclusivity. Edge Hill has an amazing range of diverse students. No one of any age, colour, religion, gender or sexuality, neuro diverse or typical should be without a voice. • I want to be a student-led VP for Welfare. I’ll make the problems you bring to my attention my priority. After all, I’m here to represent you. Work with me to make the changes you want to see. • Tackle the problem of noise pollution, particularly in halls of residence. What’s the point of having one of the best campuses in the country if you can’t get a good night’s sleep? • Introduce a wellbeing mentoring and buddy system of volunteer students. Appropriately vetted and trained student volunteers will help create an easy to access support network. Appropriate advice will be sought from health and wellbeing professionals when setting this scheme up. Thanks for reading. Paul Shacksmyth
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VP WELFARE Hello, I’m Shirkera Read, a first year currently studying teaching, learning and child development and I would love to be your Welfare VP. Being first year does not mean I am lacking in experience, but instead means I will offer new ideas and a fresh outlook on the role. I had a wonderful time working for the charities committee and being a part of the prom committee both in high school and sixth form. I will endeavour to learn from the role as each opportunity is a learning experience I can utilise. Before reading my manifesto, it is important for me to state why I am applying for this role, this role is all about how I can Shirkera Read help YOU, and better your experience at university. I hope to be an accurate representation of my fellow students and I believe I am approachable for people to be able to address concerns they have without feeling embarrassed or their voice not being heard. Being at university can be overwhelming and isolating which is why I believe in offering a lot of support for students and constantly improving ways students receive and hear about support. Becoming a part of the support network here at Edge Hill means that I will be constantly representing the university. I wish to work closely with the LGBTQ+ community and other minority groups. I aim to be the vital link between students and the university’s support network. If there is anything you want to see if improved or just small concerns you have that are not in this manifesto, don’t be afraid to get in touch - I will always answer. I am passionate about Edge Hill University and would be honoured to serve in my second year of university. Vote for Shirkera Read for VP of Welfare.
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VP Activities
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VP ACTIVITIES
Alice Marsden
Hi Edge Hill! My name is Alice, I'm a third year Dance student, and I am running for the role of VP Activities in the 2019 March Elections. Throughout my three years at Edge Hill, I have taken part in various Give It A Go activities, events and recreational sports. I was also voted captain of EHU Xtreme Cheerleading team for the 2018/2019 season. I am passionate about student wellbeing on campus and the ways this can be improved through involvement in sports and societies.
• IMPROVE THE INCLUSIVITY WITHIN SPORTS: I will push for more opportunities for Post Graduate, International and Erasmus students to be part of our sports teams. • EQUAL REPRESENTATION FOR ALL TEAMS AND SOCIETIES: Although we are great at celebrating sporting success, I feel that we need to know more about our societies and non BUCS teams. I will strive to improve the representation of all teams and groups across campus. • IMPROVED FACILITIES FOR TEAMS: It is apparent that some teams and societies at Edge Hill would benefit greatly by having more equipment or training times, which is an issue I will push to overcome. • IMPROVE SUSTAINABILITY ACROSS CAMPUS: I will continue the great work that is already happening across campus to improve sustainability, and create more events and activities dedicated to this.
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VP ACTIVITIES Hi! I’m Bea Beaton and I’m running to be your next VP activities! If elected, I would want to expand on the excellent work done by this year's team, as well as adding a few ideas of my own! SPORT SUPPORT To liaise with Edge Hill Sport and our sports teams to reduce the barriers students may face when participating in sport, and ensure all students have equal opportunities to participate and ensure they are inclusive where possible!
Bea Beaton
Collaborate with the sports teams to recruit coaches for the those that require them as team members are having to seek their own coach or compete without one, which means players are having to coach themselves putting a strain on them.
SPOTLIGHT ON SOCIETIES To develop and run a weeklong celebration of all the various wonderful societies we have on campus. The week would showcase the many skills and talents of our societies and as part of this week we would run a mini fringe festival for performing arts societies to perform their shows. REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE! To reduce the number of single use plastics on campus where possible. I would ensure that reusable Starbucks cups similar to the cups in the catalyst are available, and lobby the university to reward students/staff who use a reusable cup. I would also ensure there are more recycling facilities available on campus. GROW GIVE IT A GO! To grow the range of activities in the Give It A Go booklet. Every year this book has expanded and is now a fantastic guide for students, however I want to include more events for student parents and mature students. I also want to encourage more of the events to be lead by societies giving people a chance to try out societies and learn new skills. SO GET BACKINGBEA FOR ACTIVITIES!
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VP ACTIVITIES My name's John and I've been a teacher of English and Drama since 2006, having graduated with my PGCE from Edge Hill one year earlier. I'm currently a (mature!) MA Education student. Over the years, I have worked in young persons' prisons and schools in Liverpool and the Midlands. MENTAL HEALTH: Whilst it is common to see this on a list of things that are important to students, it is crucial to ensure current provisions are high-quality. As someone with a keen interest in yoga and meditation, I would be keen to set up additional provisions that enable students to really John Turner learn useful methods in countering anxiety, depression, family worries, exam stress, and other concerns. As my own life has been impacted by some of these factors over the years, and having supported many students in my thirteen years as a teacher, this is a very important issue to me. THE ARTS: Despite being surrounded by many people, have you ever felt lonely on campus? Music, gigs, theatre, comedy (and so on) are excellent ways to relieve study pressure and to spend time with people with similar interests. I would be keen to support student-led activities such as open-mic poetry readings, story-telling events, busking on-site, (yes, that's right!) and arranging nights out on and off site. SPORTS: Firstly, I know nothing about football! However, I do keep fit by boxing, self-defence classes and tai chi. I love going on long walks. Sports allow us to boost body and mind, pushing ourselves to new limits and meeting others. As VP of Activities, I'd been keen to promote special events; particularly promoting self-defence as a way to keep to keep fit and stay safe. SO MUCH MORE: As VP, I'd love to speak to students and gather your thoughts too. Nominate me!
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VP ACTIVITIES WHO AM I? A positive 3rd year Primary Education student, who is passionate about making a change! I have been involved with a lot of what EHU has to oer: I am the president of the Guide Dog Society, a writer for The Quack, a Student Academic Mentor, Cohort representative two years running, a year rep and a member of the catering team. I have been a Student Assistant and a Social Media Ambassador for the university.
Kelsey Badley
INCLUSIVENESS Giving everybody the opportunity to get involved in all activities, sports and events. I want to get even more people involved with the SU and what they do, and I want to give everyone a voice. I will work alongside VP Welfare to branch out to minority groups and listen to what they need. Everybody deserves to feel welcome.
SPORTS & EVENTS Listening to sports teams and societies and working towards giving them what they want and need to progress. Developing more GIAG sessions involving a range of activities that have not yet been done. Having team/society spotlights, to help increase the participation in groups. SUSTAINABILITY EHSU currently holds a bronze level in sustainability. My goal is to increase this to silver and then gold. Doing this would allow us to obtain valuable funding which goes straight back into the SU, improving your university experience. CELEBRATION Everybody deserves celebration. I think we need more of it. I want to bring the EHU community together by holding more social events which are relevant and exciting for all. This will include religious/cultural celebrations, sporting awards and achievements, society awards, and a variety of festivals and themed weeks. I want to celebrate the diversity of EHU, and will provide ample opportunities for doing so!
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VP ACTIVITIES My name is Nathaniel and I am running for the role of SU Vice-President of Activities. I have been at Edge Hill for three years now and in the last two years, I have held the role of Vice-President in the American Football team. Using my experiences from my time as VP, and also my general university experience, I am determined to use this role to continue to promote student wellbeing across Edge Hill University. Nathaniel Denham-Bosah
• ADDRESS SOCIETY FUNDING: I will evaluate the criteria for society funding, and make changes where possible to allow for better access and understanding. • INCREASE THE AVAILABILITY OF SUPPORT SERVICES IN REGARDS TO MENTAL HEALTH: Add Welfare/Mental Health Officer as a compulsory committee role and work with student mental health charities to run workshops with the focus on training committees. • WORK WITH TEAM EDGE HILL TO CATER FOR TEAMS NEEDS: Hold meetings and discussions with the sports teams, alongside the existing Team Edge Hill forum meetings. Aim to establish the individual needs of each team and strive to provide workshops, support, and any additional things they may require. • CONTINUING ON THE EXISTING SU SUSTAINABILITY GOALS: Continue the great work already completed by the SU on their environmental sustainability and push for more schemes and action from societies on their own commitment to help towards the SU's goals.
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VP ACTIVITIES Hello to all Edge Hill students. My name is Thomas Breheny and I will be running for the role of Vice President (VP) Activities. During my time at Edge Hill, I have been involved with activities from being a member of the EHU Vikings American Football Team, taking part in the Barclays Tech Challenge and the Detectives University Challenge; representing the university in a professional manner.
Thomas Breheny
• INTRODUCE INCLUSIVE EVENTS FOR ALL STUDENTS! Want to get involved in sport but feel that joining a sports team is not right for you? Not to worry! I aim to bring more inclusive events where all students can get involved for fun ranging from dodgeball, pool and darts tournaments etc.
• EQUAL FUNDING FOR ALL SPORTS TEAMS! - I aim to make sure every sports team at Edge Hill gets equal funding to make sure they can acquire the appropriate equipment and uniforms for the season ahead! • MORE VARIETY TO SU EVENTS! - I aim to bring more variety to our SU student events bringing in new and exciting nights like Mardi Gras, Great Gatsby, Tiki and Wild West and bring back old events like Bongo’s Bingo! • EXPANSION TO CURRENT EVENTS ALREADY HAPPENING AROUND CAMPUS! – I aim to expand on existing events already happening around campus such as expanding Dan B’s Nature Walks to a Stress Relief Weekend Nature Retreat and introduce an annual City Break. I also want to bring more recognition to society & sports awards and make it a formal event that every Edge Hill student can attend! • SOCIETY V SOCIETY COMPETITIONS & TOURNAMENTS! – Want to compete against different societies in different tournaments? I aim to bring mixed tournaments across all societies ranging from sports to lounge activities!
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VP Academic Rep
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VP ACADEMIC REP
Amy Draper
Hello! My name is Amy Draper and I am a third year Musical Theatre and French student here at Edge Hill University, as well as a Faculty of Arts and Sciences academic representative. I am extremely passionate about using my voice to represent those who feel like they do not have one and would like to nominate myself for the role of Vice-President of Academic Representation.
Having developed my advocacy skills over many years, I believe that I can effectively communicate the concerns of my fellow students, and I will not rest until their questions are met with the answers that they so deserve. Every point is valid, no matter how small or insignificant one might think it is, and every opinion matters. My ultimate aim has always been to ensure that student wants, needs and demands are being met with seriousness from staff and faculty members and, believing that there is room for improvement myself, I want very much to play a part in implementing positive changes across all departments at Edge Hill University.
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VP ACADEMIC REP Over the past six months I have focused my efforts on getting more involved with the Union, especially at the Executive level: as Student Trustee and Student Council Chair. Working closely with the Elected Officers, I’ve sought to identify the current issues facing the Union and how I could use my roles to tackle these issues.
Craig Meichan
So far, I have spearheaded motions to reform aspects of the Union’s governance, specifically the functioning of the Student Council, as well as a motion to publicise official commendation of Elected Officers. Additionally, I’ve been working with the Sabbatical Officers at a Trustee-level to ensure that the Union remains student-led. As well as this I also pitched and organised the Mamma Mia Event which raised nearly £1,500 for the Terrence Higgins Trust.
If you choose to elect me as your Vice-President Academic Representation, I will work to achieve the following objectives: • Build stronger relationships with our remote campuses and show them that the SU works for all Edge Hill’s students, specifically our Manchester Campus and international students • Work to ensure that the new medical students are represented to the same extent that current students are, despite the difference in governance and education regulations • Work towards improving the current Course and Faculty Representative, and Peer Mentoring systems to make it more efficient and rewarding for the students who volunteer • Lobby for a fairer Mitigating Circumstances procedure, to make it more easily accessible • Lobby for Mental Health and Gender awareness training for all Personal Tutors • Represent the student population on a national scale with regards to the Government’s Higher Education review in the spring. Thank you for taking the time to consider my nomination. #CountOnCraig! <3
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VP ACADEMIC REP Hello, my name is Emily and I am running for VP academic representation. Prior to university, I had a keen role in volunteering with children who are autistic and making a difference for them and their families. I then proceeded to use this passion to make a difference in the university, appearing as a student rep, faculty rep, also sitting on boards to discuss changes to courses within the faculty of education. Therefore, I decided to talk to some students to support my suggestions for this manifesto. • More emphasis and support for mental health strategies – student-to-student support to recognise mental health and use strategies such as exercise to improve mood. Starting by encouraging a healthy lifestyle and making the on-campus sports facilities more accessible with specific classes that are affordable. • Support for the transition to higher education and working towards career aspirations – I will work alongside the university to bring in more professional speakers for specific careers to encourage the building of skills. This could also include sessions to help students to build their CV and support their progression into a workforce. • Giving students a bigger voice to influence and suggest change – I would like to introduce a system where students can express their opinions and suggest changes that could be beneficial. In doing this, I would support student representatives to voice the general feedback about university life to people further than their course leader to allow these changes to be taken into consideration. • Improving on site facilities for on campus students – I have noticed the need for better facilities both within accommodation, but also appliances such as the washing machines are outdated. Therefore, I would support the fundraising to improve these facilities and make it easier for students to support themselves on campus.
Emily Unsworth
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VP ACADEMIC REP Hi, I'm Molly, and I'm standing to be your VP AcRep! I've been your Women's Officer 17/18, LGBQ+ Officer 18/19, NUS delegate & President of the LGBT+ Society (just to name a few of the things I'm involved in). I'm asking for your trust again in representing you! I want to empower all of you, making sure your Union is run by you!
Molly Smallwood
SUPPORT LIBERATED LEARNING • Work with PTOs to make sure education is an option for everyone. • Run a Why is My Curriculum White campaign. • Run a campaign on women in academia. • Continue the fight for anonymous marking. • Ensure all lecturers are posting slides up on blackboard and using lecture capture.
SUPPORT STUDENT REPS • Work to create online training modules for reps. • Work to revive and improve our STEP training, for you to gain experiences to help with your studies, as a rep & with wider employability! • Host regular rep socials for you to mingle and give feedback. SUPPORT STUDENT COMMUNITIES • Support international students and fight for their place at our universities & fight to save erasmus+. • Make sure all students, no matter what stage they are studying at, are treated fairly (e.g. only undergrads are allowed Wednesdays off). • More events for postgrads, like professional networking & talks. • Fight for a child-friendly campus, consult with student parents how we can best support them & propose a parents & carers part-time officer to represent them. • Hold a review into placements to ensure they are accessible and organised fairly (eg, pairing people who don't drive with those who do.) SUPPORT FUNDING • Create an education charter with the uni that enshrines your rights & voice. • Campaign for lower fees & better value for money at Edge Hill. • Consistently make the argument that education should be free. Click for more info on #SupportSmallwood
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PART-TIME
CANDIDATE MANIFESTOS
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POSTGRADUATE
STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; OFFICER
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Postgraduate
Students’ Officer Hi. My name is Adam McCance and I’m running for the Postgraduate Students’ Officer post in the 2019 Elections. I am a mature PGCE Secondary English student. I’m passionate about education and believe the postgraduate courses offered at Edge Hill to be some of the best in the UK. Adam Mccance
I WISH TO:
- INCREASE POSTGRADUATE INVOLVEMENT I will help postgraduates know more about the activities available on campus, encourage societies and sport clubs to organise sessions for postgraduates and ensure events continue throughout summer. - PROPOSE A PEER MENTORING SCHEME FOR POSTGRADUATES I will propose a scheme that allows postgraduates to meet with undergraduates to help them better understand the options available to them upon graduating. Who better to sell Edge Hill’s excellent postgrad courses than the students themselves? - INTRODUCE A TAILORED CAREERS SERVICE NEWSLETTER FOR ALL POSTGRADUATES We all need guidance in where we are going next. A specific jobs newsletter geared towards postgrads can only help us all make that big decision. SU
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Postgraduate
Students’ Officer My name is Antony and I am currently studying for PGCE in Secondary Computer Science. I have lived with a disability for most of my life known as Glaucoma. However, I have never let this get in my way.
Antony Brown
I am a very optimistic person with fairly varied opinions on education and how additional needs for students should be met. My subject area is Computer Science and I am what some people would consider to be a 'nerd' (proudly). One of my passions in life is how useful technology is and can become in the future, especially in the education sector. I am currently the course representative for PGCE Computer Science - there you can see that I have some experience making the student voice heard.
Although I have not taken a position on this level before, I believe I can help and contribute to my fellow students. I have hosted a charity event on campus in 2018 which made a significant amount of money towards the RNIB. I believe that taking time out to help others is a fantastic opportunity, not just in university but life in general. The following points are the main points I wish to help and contribute towards for students and their experience at university. • I wish to implement a more simplistic method for students to obtain virtual documents from Edge Hill computer accounts. • I would to try and find a more regimented and universal assignment submission process for students. • Increasing the awareness of academic support for students to aid them in the obtainment of the best possible grade they can potentially achieve. These points have been designed and discussed by me with the PGCE Computer Science cohort
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TRANS &
NON-BINARY OFFICER
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RUNNING FOR THE POSITION OF
TRANS AND Non-Binary Officer Hello, my name is Jazz, and I am running for the position of Trans and Non-Binary officer in the 2019 Edge Hill Students' Union Elections. During my time at Edge Hill, I have been a very active member of the LGBTQ+ Society and I am currently an open representative for this society on their committee. I self-identify as Gender fluid which is encompassed under the trans umbrella, and I use the pronouns They/Them.
Jazz Small
If elected as your Trans and Non-binary officer, I aim to carry on the brilliant work that our current officer is currently doing and also implement some further important points. My main points are:
• To promote positive mental, physical and sexual health for LGBTQ+ students across campus. • To push the idea of a Queer Edge Hill sports team. • To provide workshops for trans defining students around matters such as binding safely and legal issues such as name changing. • To run workshops/focus groups with Trans and Non-binary defining students to hear your voices and opinions on what you would like to see improved across campus for Trans and Non-binary defining students. I also aim to work with our other liberation officers to promote safety and positive wellbeing for all minority groups across campus to ensure a safe and well-rounded experience for university students at Edge Hill. Among these rolls I will also help to support Edge Hill's current LGBTQ+ society and help it to thrive by promoting LGBTQ+ issues across campus and making it a safe and comfortable environment for all, as well as making it educational for all students about LGBTQ+ issues. I hope you consider me to be your next Trans and Non-binary officer as I will do everything in my power to promote and support Trans and Non-binary defining students across the university.
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WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OFFICER
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Women’s Officer Hi Edge Hill Students! My name is Brittney and I am running for the role of 'Women's Officer' for the SU 2019 elections. I am a first year social work student and I am also a student rep for my course. Prior to starting university, I was part of the Student Union for my college. Since starting university I have attended and gotten involved in different activities and events put on by the SU. University should be a positive for everyone regardless of their gender! • VOICES HEARD! Everyone should be given the chance to have their voice heard and I will try to find ways to make it possible for every student to share their views on university. Whether this is face to face, or electronically, as I understand people may prefer to express their thoughts in different ways. • EQUALITY! Everyone should feel comfortable at university and feel able to get involved and participate regardless of their gender. I will try to break down any barriers that might be preventing women from getting the most out of university. • PERIOD POVERTY! Women are subject to the 'Tampon Tax' where 5% is applied to sanitary products due to them being categorised as luxury items. Edge Hill SU currently provide free sanitary products for all, through "emergency menstruation station's". I would like to help bring an end to period poverty at Edge Hill. • GENDERLESS TOILETS! Gender neutral toilets have had a positive feedback around campus and implementing more of these could benefit and help lots of students. Many students face problems using bathrooms with an assigned gender. • SAFETY! Some women have shared with me that they can feel unsafe at night. It is important to look at what more can be done to ensure everyone feels safe on campus at night.
Brittney Scott
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Women’s Officer Hi, I’m Lottie Dawson and I’m running to be your Women’s Officer! I am a 1st year Musical Theatre Student, member of Upstage Productions and a Student Activist!
Lottie Dawson
•ZERO TOLERANCE• Continue and build upon the Zero Tolerance to Sexual Assault campaign, building up a bigger conversation as has been seen by the #MeToo campaign. Work on increasing our relations with clubs in Ormskirk, making sure they are held to the same standards that we hold the SU.
•INCLUSIVITY• Make sure that all of my campaigns are accessible and inclusive for all students. Continue the incredible trend of menstruation stations and try to get more posted around the university, to make feminine hygiene products more accessible. •BODY POSITIVITY• Run a body positivity week to empower people of all genders. •CHANGING PERSPECTIVES• Feminism has been given a nasty reputation, but in reality, it is about empowering everyone! I will run workshops to teach why feminism is still very much needed in 2019! For more info check my Facebook page: facebook.com/votelottie
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Women’s Officer Hello, my name is Pippa and I am running for the role of Women’s Officer in the 2019 March elections. During my time at Edge Hill I have become an Academic Rep, LGBTQ+ Society Treasurer and regularly attend the SU’s Student Council meetings. I am passionate about the accurate representation of self-identifying women. • WORK WITH THE UNIVERSITY TO SUPPORT WOMEN’S LIBERATION: I will lobby the university to confront concerns women regularly face. This include sexual harassment and tackling the issue of relationship abuse and improving consent Pippa Hoyle education. In doing this I hope to make the university a safer and more conscientious environment, thus encouraging women to feel more comfortable around campus. I would also like to continue the work of the previous Women’s Officer by maintaining their period campaign, with the aim to make periods a little easier for self-identifying women who experience them. • COMMITTED TO EMPOWERING WOMEN AND PROMOTING GENDER EQUALITY: As Women’s Officer, I would work to provide educational workshops on what gender stereotyping is and misrepresentation by the media. I will aim to organise activity days that focus on making self-identifying women feel strong and powerful in their bodies. These include: continuing the self-defence classes, self-care days, women’s mental health sessions, and celebrations around women in STEM. • BODY POSITIVITY AND EATING DISORDER AWARENESS: Working with the other liberation officers, I want to encourage people to challenge the idea of perfection. I aim to do this through body positivity workshops and striving to not only inform but change the mindsets of people who generally suffer from eating disorders.
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MATURE & PART-TIME OFFICER SU
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RUNNING FOR THE POSITION OF
Mature and ’ Part-Time Students Officer
I’m Mike Gleeson currently studying for a degree in counselling and psychotherapy here at Edge hill. I have the skills knowledge and experience gained by being a trade union activist over 30 years. From the TGWU through UNITE and PCS, I have held the post of national officer and branch secretary. I believe I have a good grounding in union matters particularly in the field of equality. I worked hard to make employers recognise Health & Safety policies and I am no stranger to Michael Gleeson standing on the freezing cold picket line. I have always had a passion for Trade unionism and would like it to continue in this part of my journey. I am particularly interested in: • As a “customer” of Edge Hill, I expect quality service from any departments I contact. The reception at some departments I have had need to contact does not match the glossy brochure. I would like to see some standard of customer service practised here. • I have always believed in equality and opportunities for all the membership. In my roles down the years I have fought for equality. This has ranged from recruitment issues to diversity. I am proud to say I was involved in writing the diversity policy for The Criminal Records Bureau (DBS) • Education is expensive and I would like to improve the “Edge Hill Experience” a bit more than nice colourful brochures. This is an area where I would like to meet other students and find out their views. The popular topic seems to be parking right now but I am sure there are other areas of concern such as campus safety. It seems quite easy to walk off the street and wander the campus without being challenged.
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STUDENT GOVERNOR
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Student Governor Hi! My name is Will Adams and I am currently in my third year at Edge Hill training to be an Adult Nurse. I have vast experience in representing students in my role as a Faculty rep, whilst also being an active and influential member of the Faculty of Health Student Council. I have worked with all levels of staff and students to bring about positive change within the Health Faculty and have a big desire to utilise these skills to bring positive change for students across the university. • YOUR STUDENT VOICE – I believe that the health and wellbeing of all students should be at the heart of Edge Hill’s direction. With my dedication and passion, together with the SU, I believe we can achieve this with better and improved support services. I would seek to guarantee the student voice is heard at the highest level, ensuring students are always at the heart of decision making and the direction of the University.
William Adams
• STUDENT SUBSIDISED MEALS – I will lobby the University to bring in subsidised meals for all students, ensuring everyone can afford good quality, accessible meals whilst on campus. • MAKE EDGE HILL GO GREENER – I will lobby the University to become an industry leader in going greener, for a more sustainable future! We will aim to move towards energy solutions that favour renewables, encouraging a greater emphasis on becoming waste free, maximise recycling, leading to a more sustainable and smart business future. I am truly committed to bringing positive change to our university, change that will improve the university experience for students now and in the future. A student led, sustainable, greener future for Edge Hill University where we will set an example for the country, in hope of influencing change regarding health, wellbeing and sustainability.
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LGBQ+ OFFICER
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LGBQ+ Officer Hi! I’m Molly and I’m running for LGBQ+ Officer. During my time at Edge Hill, I’ve been an active member of the LGBTQ+ society, student volunteer for my psychology course, and have attended student council meetings. As a lesbian, I am enthusiastic about representing the interests of Edge Hill’s LGBTQ+ community, working alongside the Trans and Non-Binary Officer to develop policies, events, and campaigns.
Molly Williams
• MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS: LGBTQ+ individuals are at higher risk to developing mental health problems, and many avoid seeking healthcare due to fear of discrimination – I want to work with the university to provide more awareness and support as this is a prominent issue+.
• SEXUAL HEALTH AWARENESS: Alongside my fellow liberation officers, I want to push for further sexual health awareness for the LGBTQ+ community, providing workshops on contraception, especially during Sexual Health & Guidance week. • CONTINUE TO REPRESENT THE LGBQ+ COMMUNITY AT EDGE HILL: As LGBQ+ Officer, I will be an active presence on campus and in the Students' Union, representing the interests of the community on the student council. I hope to further expand on the already incredible Pride Weeks that have been held in the past few years, ensuring that there is inclusivity and representation of the whole community. • LGBQ+ INCLUSIVITY IN SU EVENTS AND SOCIETIES: Continuing the great work done by the current liberation and sabbatical officers, as LGBQ+ officer I will organise events, workshops and campaigns focusing on inclusivity such as the Pride in Sport/Societies and Pride in Faith. Being a member of the LGBTQ+ society, I want to help grow the group, working with other societies to collaborate on events and continue to provide a safe and welcoming space for members of the community.
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DISABLED STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; OFFICER
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RUNNING FOR THE POSITION OF
Disabled Students’
Officer
Annabelle Lutalica
Hello fellow students, my name is Annabelle Lutalica and I want to represent you as a part-time Disabled Students’ Officer. My disability came about through an illness, so I know what it is to be “able bodied”, to walk with a cane, and to need the use of a wheelchair. My illness can also affect my cognitive abilities, so I have some experience of trying to study when focus and concentration are almost impossible. With your support, I want to make this university as “disability friendly” as possible.
• ACCESSIBILITY: I want to see more signs for access lifts, disabled toilets and first aid facilities so that disabled students can find what they need easily. • INCLUSION: There is a lack of social and sports events that are able to include and support disabled students. I will encourage and support the introduction of disabled student societies, help societies that already exist to include more disabled students, and lobby for more disabled sports and activities. • REPRESENTATION: I do not see the disabled students getting the same amount of exposure and representation as other communities. This means that our needs and achievements are often overlooked. I would like to organise disability focussed events and fundraisers to help increase awareness. We are here and we should be seen.
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RUNNING FOR THE POSITION OF
Disabled Students’
Officer
Hi everyone! I’m running for the role of Disabled Students’ Officer and my name is Holly. Being deaf myself and supporting others with complex disabilities means that I am very passionate about inclusivity. During my time at Edge Hill, I have joined the sign language society, and outside of university, I’m a part of many different groups for teens and adults with a wide range of disabilities from the autistic spectrum to those who have physical disabilities.
Holly Heaps
More parking permits for those who need it: At the moment people with intermittent conditions struggle to gain parking permits and I will lobby the University to improve the criteria for these students. Captions put on all the university screens and lessons to staff in sign language: I want to campaign for the University to give all its staff, training on D/deaf awareness and British Sign Language as well as campaigning for closed captions to be put on screens around the University. Quiet rooms: I will lobby the university for a quiet room to be put in place for students who need a break from a sensory overload or to administer medication, or to have a rest in order for them to carry on with their day. Improve mental health and disability awareness on Campus: I want to improve mental health provisions for all students on campus as well as improving inclusiveness and awareness of all disabilities. SU
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VOTING OPENS TUES 12TH MARCH AT 9AM
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