issue 41 jan/feb 2015
THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF NORTHUMBRIA STUDENTS
# TRENDING VN & ECO NSU
NEW YEAR
CONTENTS 4
#TRENDING
7
NSU NEWS
8
NSU ELECTIONS
10
VN WEEK
11
ECO NSU WEEK
12
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AT NSU
13
SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES AND SHAPE YOUR FUTURE
14
WELFARE WONDERINGS: YOU CAN’T ALWAYS BE SUPERMAN
16
DIY LIBIDO BOOSTING VALENTINE
18
MANAGING YOUR MONEY
19
SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT: NORTHUMBRIA FREEMASONS
20
GENERAL ELECTION
22
COULD YOU HAVE DYSLEXIA?
Editor’s words
With Christmas far behind us and the New Year having just begun, I’m already looking ahead into what looks to be one hell of a semester! It’s exam season, and the same as every year student’s campus wide are cramming everything into those energy drink fuelled all-nighters. Don’t worry, on the day it will all be fine. As with all of my editorials, I like to add a personal note – I hope this one isn’t too much of a surprise to you all. I had a really difficult time in parts of last semester struggling with depression and anxiety and generally finding my feet in this role. But, with the help and support of some incredible colleagues, friends and family I’m back to my old self, and whilst that may be slightly grumpy, I’m ok with that. Mental health and wellbeing is important, and it’s ok to admit you need some support – don’t struggle on your own. Tom Bromwich
SPECIAL THANKS The Sabb Team – Thanks for keeping me going!
MAGAZINE DESIGN BY WWW.CATHIWATT.CO.UK
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#TRENDING
WRITTEN BY CHARLOTTE HALL
G is for:
A is for:
Arrows by Fence ft Macklemore and Ryan Lewis - Macklemore’s back!
a
4
C is for:
E is for:
Candy Crush Soda Saga
Eat!In
c
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory extravaganza at the Students’ Union is something you really don’t want to miss out on!
Don’t miss the food and drink events happening around Newcastle between 20 Feb 1 March.
Do not download if you would like your life to be even remotely productive! You’ve been warned…
b
Get yourself there
d
f
e
g
h
B is for:
D is for:
F is for:
H is for:
Broadchurch
Domino’s
Funk it up Fridays
If you haven’t been keeping up with the second series, proceed to ITV Player immediately!
Get 50% off with code NEW50STU - as if you needed any excuse anyway..
Get down to Habita for Soul and Funk Fridays - cheap drinks and cool music!
Headspace app Relax and get some headspace with this popular mindfulness and meditation app.
I is for:
I newspaper
M is for:
Keep up to date with the latest news with this concise newspaper and at 30p, do it without breaking the bank!
i
kaiser chiefs
Maybe not a 1 hit wonder after all?
O is for:
Don’t miss them at Metro Radio Arena on 5th February.
Meghan Trainor is back with new song Lips are Movin..
Game of Thrones. Season 5. April. Be there.
K is for:
j
k
l
m
Omg it’s back
n
o
p
J is for:
L is for:
N is for:
P is for:
Jimmy carr
Loads of amazing websites
Not good for the waistline
Perfect viewing
From Bustle to The Debrief, you can never be bored on the internet.
If you like cake (who doesn’t?) then get yourself down to The Great British Cupcakery parlour on the Quayside immediately.
His brand new stand up show ‘Funny Business’ is coming to Newcastle City Hall on 27th March.
Don’t forget Super Sports Saturday football at Habita!
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S is for:
U is for:
Stand Comedy Club Try something different with a night of comedy, music and performance at ‘Bright Club’ for just £4.
Q is for:
Queen G’s back Gwen Stefani is back in 2015 with brand new single Baby don’t lie!
q
y
6
r
s
W is for:
Unbelievably useful
World Cup ICC cricket world cup starts in February - get the coffee at the ready to follow the action down under!
Don’t waste hours referencing your essays, let RefME do the hard work instead!
t
u
v
w
x
R is for:
T is for:
V is for:
X is for:
Royal baby is due!
the script
vote
X
Will it be a prince or a princess?
With special guest Labrinth, make sure you grab tickets for 23rd Feb at Metro Radio Arena.
Have you registered to vote? General elections are in May and it’s so important that you do!
traoRdinarily
Y is for:
You won’t to miss out
On this amazingly pointless app, Dubsmash
z
And finally Z is for:
Zadie Smith Relax and kick back with a book from one of the best authors out there! Try White Teeth or N-W too
good show If you haven’t ever watched The Good Wife, put this magazine down immediately and go and watch it…
NSU NEWS JANUARY - FEBRUARY ‘15 Semester Two is upon us – and here at Northumbria Students’ Union we’re ready to make some more memories! See in the new term in style with our Refreshers Week, packed full of daytime and night time events with everything from silent movies to hypnotists – so if you want to re-live those first few weeks at uni, this is definitely for you! Our Welfare officer and his brand new SWAG (Sexual Wellbeing Advice & Guidance) team are in the process of setting up a completely new sexual health service – so you can get checked out right here on campus.
February will see this semester’s biggest volunteering weeks, ECO NSU & Volunteer Northumbria. Students will have the opportunity to volunteer in projects ranging from IT Classes for the elderly to Tyneside beach cleans. This March for the first time ever, we will be holding our very own ‘Diversity Week’ to celebrate our fantastically diverse student population at Northumbria, including a few food treats from around the world! Also in March, we have our annual Sabbatical elections, where Northumbria students will vote for the next leaders of the Students’ Union, as well as our part-time and equality reps!
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COULD YOU LEAD YOUR UNION? WRITTEN BY NATALIE-DAWN HODGSON
Fact: Running to be a sabbatical officer and President of Northumbria Students’ Union was the best decision I have ever made. In my final year at University I had no idea about what I wanted to do next, but all I knew was that I wanted to do some travelling (It is still part of the plan, just slightly delayed!) Almost two years later and I am still at Northumbria, working in the Students’ Union doing a role which I honestly never expected to be doing. If someone had told me at the start of my time here at Northumbria that I would be President of the Students’ Union I would have laughed in their face. In fact I think that was my initial response when one of the sabbatical officers floated the idea to me at the end of an Academic forum meeting. However, I think for me what I lacked was the confidence to even think about running in the elections and actually if that sabbatical officer hadn’t mentioned it to me I honestly don’t think I would have ran. Sometimes we all need that boost to our confidence or others to see our potential in order to realise it for ourselves.
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Even right up until the last minute I was debating, should I run in the elections? Should I do this? Not because the role didn’t sound like fun but because I honestly didn’t think anyone would vote for me and what I was standing for. One of my other concerns was that I wasn’t a well-known name in the Students’ Union; my involvement in the Students’ Union had started in my first year when I joined Dance Society. I hear this all the time, people saying “I don’t know enough people” but why should that stop you there are thousands of students at this University and nobody knows everyone. Almost eighteen months into the role and I have loved every second of it. There is never a dull moment and no two days are the same. Yes, the role has its challenges but I have I had the privilege of representing thousands of Northumbria Students every day and managed to make changes which do and have changed the student experience here. I have also learnt huge amounts about myself and my capabilities as a leader.
My confidence has soared; I have a much stronger sense of myself and what I can achieve. I have also had some incredible experiences in this role, I have abseiled down the University Library, had lunch with royalty, spoken in front of hundreds of people and represented Northumbria Students at countless events across the UK. I have also campaigned and lobbied the University on countless things, such as securing extra buses for Coach Lane, water fountains on campus, longer opening hours, more funding for student activities and cheaper food on campus. So you might be reading this thinking that’s great but that’s not really for me. Ask yourself this, why couldn’t it be you? What could you achieve as a Sabbatical Officer? If you want to find out more - Come along to one of our sessions in the Students’ Union for more information. Training Room 1 & 2 Training Room 1 & 2 Training Room 3 Training Room 1 & 2 Training Room 1 & 2 Coach Lane Café Training Room 1 & 2 Training Room 3
Friday 16th January Tuesday 20th January Wednesday 28th January Friday 6th February Tuesday 10th February Monday 16th February Thursday 19th February Tuesday 24th February
12pm-1pm 2.30pm-3.30pm 11am-12pm 5pm-6pm 12.30pm-1.30pm 10am-11am 4pm-5pm 12pm-1pm
Nominations open 2nd February at 10am. Pick up a pack at the welcome desk. Voting is open 9th-13th March.
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VOLUNTEER NORTHUMBRIA WEEK 2015 At the end of last semester was Volunteer Northumbria’s Christmas Week. A massive, massive THANK YOU to everyone that came along. We carolled, wrapped shoe boxes, spread some magic at the Coach Lane Christmas party, ate a lot of mince pies (thank you so so so much Claire) and much more. The Christmas spirit was incredible and our volunteers shone like stars ! Now, we have another great opportunity to make your mark on the community of Newcastle. *X Factor announcer voice* VOLUNTEER NORTHUMBRIA WEEK 2015 ! We’re planning a massive week of events around and off campus. We guarantee 10
there will be something for everyone. It’s happening from the 21st February to the 1st of March. It coincides with Student Volunteering Week, a national initiative so loads of other Universities around the country will be making a difference too. We had over 100 students take part last year. Please help us make 2015 bigger and better! So that’s 21st February to the 1st of March Any other information please ‘Like’ us Facebook (just search Volunteer Northumbria) or email su.community. volunteering@northumbria.ac.uk
Week From an Urban Farm trip, Beach Cleaning, to Environmental Events and Films…It Must be Eco NSU Week! From 13 – 20th February, Northumbria Students’ Union is turning the union turquoise with a week packed with free eco fun. Eco NSU is the Union’s environmental volunteering programme ran by students for students. From getting down and dirty on a local farm, sharing your passion for vintage fashion to creating a cutting edge climate campaign...Eco NSU support students with funding, training and mentoring to run eco projects. Sign up for more information about Eco NSU Week by emailing su.eco@northumbria.ac.uk
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DUKE of EDINBURGH The 2014-2015 academic year has seen Northumbria Students’ Union launch a brand new Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. This is a national programme which gives young people aged 14-24 the opportunity to gain rewards and recognition for volunteer work as well as personal skills which they undertake during their spare time. Now you can become part of it. The award is highly valued by employers and education institutions and looks great on your CV, whilst also allowing participants to develop a wide range of personal skills and qualities through their involvement, which can have a massive positive impact on their ability to succeed in later life. Activities performed by students can also have a huge positive impact in their local communities so you can also feel good about benefitting others in the process. There are three different levels of award which can be achieved; Bronze, Silver and Gold. Higher levels requiring a longer period of time to complete, although they require the same four sections to be undertaken: Physical Recreation, Skill, Volunteering and a group Expedition (although Gold also requires participants to complete a Residential trip). Our current group of Gold participants are well underway with various sections of their awards and look forward to carrying out a mountain walking expedition early in Summer 2015.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SCHEME, OR TO SIGN UP:
Visit the Students’ Union Welcome Desk, go online to mynsu. northumbria.ac.uk/studentactivities/dukeofedinburgh or contact kevin2.edgar@northumbria.ac.uk. 12
SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITIES AND SHAPE YOUR FUTURE There are so many opportunities for you to get involved in at Northumbria, from your first year onwards. You can get work experience from some of the countries leading firms, or study abroad and develop your language skills or create your own professional network. All these opportunities can help you to plan your next steps, whether you’re planning a career abroad, in the UK or embarking on a masters or PhD. The process of deciding what you want to do after graduation really starts at day one. The Careers and Employment Service can help you identify opportunities which
equip you with the new knowledge, contacts and experiences to help you explore what you want to do. Coupled with this, we will give you advice and tips on how to improve your confidence and sell your University experiences in the recruitment process. Kick start your career plans in 2015 by speaking to an adviser who can help you put together an action plan. Drop-in and visit the Careers Zone, ground floor of the library. For 1-1 support go the Ask4Help desk.
Stuck on what to ask us? Read some of our typical drop-in queries: What help can you give me with how to make a decision about what to do after graduation?
What opportunities are available in my first/ second year to improve my employability?
Could you advise me on how I can improve my application form, CV and covering letter?
Keep in touch to find out how we can help, like us on facebook or follow us on twitter. /NUCareers
@NUCareers
www.northumbria.ac.uk/careers
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Welfare Wonderings
WRITTEN BY JAMIE THOMPSON
You Can’t Always Be Superman
...Said the therapist to the patient.
This has been a progressive year with many It’s surprising how many times things but ultimately I have to say mentally medical professionals have drawn I am much in the same place, and each day this comparison. I’m of the nature, can be entirely different from the last. for all its flaws, to care too much Unfortunately my grandfather was recently diagnosed with cancer, which has caused and get too involved in other a lot of struggles for my family peoples’ problems, which and me. It can really put things “...each often makes it difficult to into perspective and make you work on my own. day can be re-evaluate the importance of spending quality time with your entirely Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t loved ones. I also split up with my change it for the world but it different partner, which has sent me into can be quite challenging. Before ‘self-destruct’ mode, so I doubt my from the you read on please note that the health in general is very good at following article may be triggering. the moment! Generally on a daily last.” I’m very open about my own basis my mood is pretty low and I struggles with anxiety and struggle with concentration and sleeping. depression (such as in my previous blog If you, like me, have a ridiculously busy with Time to Change last year) with the lifestyle it can be really difficult to find time hopes other people will feel comfortable to actually reflect on your thoughts. My with who they are therapist has advised me that this is the and not be pressured core of my issues - I don’t actually have by the stigma and time to learn to handle my emotions, which discrimination within has been a similar problem throughout society, and thought it my life. Instead of relaxing, my obsessive was about time I gave tendencies take over which means while I an update. have a very tidy house I certainly don’t have
a tidy mind working for you. to go with it! I have however, after 27 months I hope in the of waiting following an emergency future this is referral, finally got my start date for something I Psychodynamic Therapy with the NHS, can learn to which will be once a week for as long as handle better, one year, to discuss the emotional issues and ensure which trigger my anxiety. It’s going to that my work/ be a rough ride but I’m quite excited to life balance finally (hopefully) get a grasp on some of is handled well to let me look after my my issues and if nothing else gain some health - if you can, try and find time in understanding that may help me in the your day to meditate or relax, it future. can work wonders. My best advice for anyone “try and I’m currently taking Venlafaxine struggling is not to be afraid to find time (75mg per day) through no speak out. So many students other reason than a friend in your day compare themselves to others recommended it. The thing who “have it worse” and don’t to meditate think their problems are big with any medication is it is next to impossible to monitor This couldn’t be more or relax, it enough. its effectiveness - I wouldn’t wrong - when something hurts say it has made me any worse, you or puts pressure on you that can work certainly compared to Fluoxetine emotional reaction is unique to wonders” and Mirtazapine which I have you, and what may seem trivial tried in the past, which made me to one person can be earth a zombie! When it comes to medication, shattering to the next. Speak up and get I struggled to switch over once I started the help you need. one as my GP told me to be patient and Circumstances change, friends move on, let it run its course but I am so glad relationships end - at the end of the day that I stood my ground and insisted on the one person you need to be able to rely changing – my advice would be that you on is yourself - take charge and make know yourself better than your GP, so sure you are okay. be true to yourself if something isn’t
If anybody reading this does need support, Northumbria has its own confidential listening service (Nightline, 0191 2273737 8pm-7am) or anyone can also call the Samaritans on 08457 909090. Alternatively, visit Student Support and Wellbeing to register for Counselling or Mental Health Support during your studies.
DIY LIBIDO
Valentine’s DAY MEAL SPECIAL WRITTEN BY MATTHEW AUDEN
It’s that time of year again – if you can see past the commercial hi-jacking of what was traditionally a religious feast for St Valentinus it’s a great opportunity to impress the significant other in your life with your culinary skills. Why spend a fortune for a set menu and a rushed eating experience at a restaurant when you can do it yourself? So today we’re keeping it simple with a romantic theme – namely a natural aphrodisiac theme. 16
INGREDIENTS If you’re after convenience you can pick up all these ingredients from your local high street supermarket however you get much fresher and often at a similar price at Grainger Market, just make sure you buy them yourself – you’re flatmate told me to tell you they’re fed up of you stealing their food. • • • • • • •
2 Salmon Fillets: Preferably fresh, go see the Grainger Fishmonger! 1 pack of Asparagus: Remove the tough ends. 2 Avocados: Peeled and diced into small chunks, choose avocados which are ripe. ½ Lemon: Juiced. Salt, Black Pepper: To taste Salted butter: 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Oil
SPICE MIX Grainger Market boasts an excellent little cheese stall with an excellent spice counter called Matthew Cheese Shop in the eatery section by the Clayton St entrance. You can buy your spices by the gram and they are quite reasonably priced for a student budget. • • • • •
Spanish smoked paprika – 2 Tbsp Chilli Powder – 2 Tbsp Ground cayenne – Tbsp Garlic Powder – Tbsp Basil – Tbsp
METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 200° C. 2. Mix well the avocado, lemon juice and add
3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
8. 9.
salt and pepper to taste – set this aside. Mix all the spice mix ingredients in small bowl. Set the salmon on a large plate and cover both sides with a generous amount of the spice mix. Warm 1 ½ tablespoons of extra virgin oil in a pan then sauté the filets for 2 minutes each side. Move the fish to a baking dish and place in the oven for 5-10 minutes. While you’re waiting for your fish to cook, add your salted butter to the pan with a tbsp of oil. Add asparagus to pan, cover and simmer on a medium heat for 4 minutes – allow an extra minute if you are using thicker asparagus. Increase the heat on the pan and sauté until the asparagus are browned on one side. To serve, form a bed of asparagus spears placing the salmon on top. Spoon a generous helping of the avocado mixture on top. Season as desired – with a slight drizzle of lemon juice.
And you’re done! Salmon is naturally rich in fatty omega 3 acids proven to boost libido in both men and women, asparagus has been used in cooking for centuries along with avocado to increase testosterone production as well as general wellbeing. Garlic has been in use as a ‘natural Viagra’ due to the plant’s chemical allicin as well as its improvement of blood circulation. Grilled salmon has a meaty taste so you can forget the conventional fish/ white wine combo and enjoy with a bottle of red if you prefer – with ingredients like this who needs dessert?
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MANAGING YOUR MONEY
AFTER CHRISTMAS
Like most of us, now that Christmas is over, you might find yourself a bit strapped for cash. A month of buying presents, going out and generally overindulging can take its toll and by the time January comes around, the weeks can stretch ahead with only a shoestring budget to manage on. So what can you do to make those pounds go further? Firstly, it is important to make sure that, as a Northumbria student, you’re getting all the funding you’re entitled to; for example, you may be eligible for a bursary, scholarship or nonrepayable grant. The University also has a discretionary means-tested Access to Learning Fund (ALF) to help those in genuine financial hardship so if you have accessed all available sources of funding, tried to budget and are still struggling financially, this might be worth looking into. For more information on all types of funding, visit: www.northumbria.ac.uk/ financialsupport Secondly, remember when looking ahead, to control your spending – there are many different things you can do, from drawing up a budget, shopping around for best-value products, switching utilities’ suppliers and having a meal in with your friends rather than going out to expensive pubs and restaurants – visit: www.northumbria.ac.uk/budgeting for more information. In February, Student Support and Wellbeing are teaming up with the Students’ Union to run ‘National Student Money Week’. This fantastic event will take place on: Thursday 12th February, 12-3pm in Library, City Campus and Friday 13th February 10am - 1pm in Library, Coach Lane Campus. It will give loads of advice and money-saving tips to help you to access any funding you’re entitled to and manage your finances, while studying. Don’t miss it!
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ADVICE ON FINANCE: Visit the Student Support and Wellbeing Centre in Northumberland Building to speak to a Welfare and International Student Adviser – no appointment needed: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (10.00am – 4.00pm), Wednesday (1.00pm – 4.00pm) or telephone: 0191 227 4127. Visit the Ask4Help desk in Coach Lane Library or telephone: 0191 215 6590.
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SOCIETY SPOTLIGHT
NORTHUMBRIA FREEMASONS
The Universities’ Scheme was set up in 2005 to ‘establish and/or enhance arrangements and opportunities for undergraduates and other university members to enjoy Freemasonry.’ The Duke of Connaught Lodge joined the University Scheme in 2010 to promote it in the University of Northumbria. and accordingly were represented at the Northumbria Freshers’ Week on 17 September this year.
disposed of, and also a genuine surprise at the charitable and sporting / social aspects of Masonry. Particular interest was shown in the Widows’ Sons motorcycle club and the recent international England / Scotland Rugby Match (see match report elsewhere on this site)
Bro. George Laws PProvJGW, a vastlyexperienced Mason led the Team. He was accompanied by Bro Tom Clifford, who joined the Craft through the University Scheme, and Bro Mateusz Winter, currently a Student of the University and founder of the University’s Masonic Society which promotes the Scheme on the Campus and keeps members informed about Lodge events.
A number of students expressed an interest in joining the Craft, with two subsequently taking the opportunity to visit the Wallsend Masonic Hall on 20 September. The Duke of Connaught Lodge will develop contact with all those interested students so that if considered suitable, they can be initiated into the Duke of Connaught Lodge at the right time. The Lodge is similarly developing links with the Student Society, to ensure that every opportunity continues to be taken to promote the Craft and the Scheme within the University. I am delighted to announce that a number of students and staff members have inquired about joining the Craft. We are now in the process of interviewing them to see if Freemasonry is for them and that they will feel at home.
The Team had quite a busy day, meeting diverse students and answering questions ranging from those who were merely curious, to those with a real interest in the Craft. There were myths to dispel, as ever, which were readily
If any of you are interested in becoming a Freemason contact me on mateuszwinter@gmail.com.
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It’s Y OUR have Y IT’S GENERAL ELECTION TIME We checked, and we couldn’t find your name on the register. Thousands of students just like you are missing from the electoral register, which means they don’t get a say in who decides how things are run for the next 5 years. In the last General Election, we saw students turn out in force when fixed higher education costs were promised and we made a huge impact on the result - it’s just they didn’t keep their promise. Students make up a huge part of the Newcastle population, make sure your voice is heard both nationally and locally. It’s your city, have your say. 20
February 5th is Nation Voter Registration Day, and the Students’ Union staff will be out in force. We’re making it our priority this year to make sure you’re registered to vote in the 2015 General Election. We are holding a series of events around GE15, including movie nights and a candidates hustings. These are a great chance for you to learn more about politics and shape your opinion on who to vote for come May. It’s really easy to register, all you need is your national insurance number. You can fill out a form with us - or you can do it online right now! www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
R city R say U O Y GE 15 FILM NIGHTS Individual Regis
TEAM AMERICA 20th January // Stage 2, SU INVICTUS 5th February // TR 1&2, SU
tration Form
Your nationality
ITR-E-W ITR-E-W If you have more than one nationality, please include them all. You can only register to vote in the Only one perso UK if you have leave n can register wwwto.gov. remain. Wegiste uk/re to vote using r-to-vote this form. may check your immigration status Use black ink and
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register.
If you cannot tell us your National Insurance number, we may need to ask you for proof of your identity. We will contact you about this, and it may take longer to deal with your application.
Please tell us why.
MILK 12th February // TR 1&2, SU PRIDE 19th February // TR 1&2, SU ELECTION 26th February // TR 1&2, SU 1984 5th March // TR 1&2, SU
Do you
Contact details live at another address?
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you You don’t haveIf to also give us live yourat another addre ss don’t contact details, usdo theitaddre butgive if you will ss now, but we may ask you for help us if we need to contact more you information later. For example, you may have got married.
12 months? about your registration.
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changed your There’s more information about name (DD MM YYYY). the address to be included in the open register on page 3 of open register. this form.
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Postcode this address was To the best ofIf my Now sign and return knowledge, the overse as, wereinyou information thisregiste form is true. as voter? I understand overse red in the UK that the information I have given on this form will be used as an the form Don’t know your on the electoral No register. Yes exact date of Send the signed birth? Pleaseform give the to the Electoral date I understand that if I do not of birth you put make an application for registration on when Your date of your passport birth (DD MM YYYY or driving licence ) I understand that it is an offence ) or tick www.gov.uone of the boxes k/get-on-el to knowingly give false information ectoral-reg . ister. If you six months in don’t prison. know your date of birth, please tick if you are: Signature Under 18 18–70 Date Over 70 (DD MM YYYY)
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COULD YOU HAVE DYSLEXIA? Did you know that last year there were over 1000 students with dyslexia at Northumbria across all subject areas; many of them didn’t know that they had dyslexia before coming to university. Dyslexia is a learning condition that can have an impact on reading, writing and spelling, along with other things such as time management, memory and concentration. There are strengths associated with dyslexia, such as creativity and good problem solving skills, but it can also cause concerns with academic work such as difficulties with understanding, reading, getting a good structure in essays and assignments and running out of time for completing assignments and in exams. If you think you might have dyslexia there are a number of indicators to look out for.
“A 1st! Thought I would let you know that I received my mark back and it was 72%! Thank you for your help. The mark would be nowhere near as high if it wasn’t for the dyslexia study skills tutorials I had with you.” Student, Faculty of Arts, Design and Social Sciences
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Do you: • Find you are able to speak about a subject more effectively than writing it down? • Work hard but take a lot longer than other students to read material/produce assignments? • Have difficulty with personal organisation and time management, such as missing appointments or deadlines? • Find it hard to follow a series of instructions? • Have difficulty concentrating? • Find it hard to make notes and understand what is being said at the same time? If this sounds like you, the British Dyslexia Association website has a checklist that you might find useful on www.bdadyslexia.org.uk At Northumbria, we have a specialist Disability and Dyslexia Support Team who are here to help students with dyslexia. Please contact us to book an appointment to find out about being tested for dyslexia and the support available for students with dyslexia.
Contact the Disability and Dyslexia Support Team on 0191 227 4127 Visit Ask4Help Student Support and Wellbeing, Ground Floor, Northumberland Building and at Coach Lane Library or visit: www.northumbria.ac.uk/dyslexia
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