Student Council Tuesday 13 December 2011 at 6.30pm in the David Sizer Lecture Theatre Agenda
1.0
Apologies If you are unable to attend the meeting please send your apologies to tom.sutton@qmsu.org
2.0
Chair’s Welcome and Announcements
3.0
Minutes from the meeting of Student Council held on 23 November 2011 (pages 3-12) Union Council is asked to note the record of the last meeting.
4.0
Officer Reports (pages 13-15) Union Council is asked to note the activities of the Union’s Part-time Officers since the last meeting.
5.0
Executive Action Plan (pages 16-21) Union Council is asked to note the activities of the Union’s Full-time Officers since the last meeting.
6.0
Election Dates (page 22) Union Council is asked to note the dates of the Union Main Elections.
7.0
Executive Officers Duties and Responsibilities (pages 23-27) A motion to create an ‘Executive Officers’ Bye-Law containing the duties and responsibilities of the Union’s Executive Officers.
8.0
Student Representative and Part-time Officer Duties and Responsibilities (pages 28-42) A motion to create an ‘Student Representatives and Part-time Officers’ Bye-Law containing the duties and responsibilities of the Union’s Student Representatives and Part-time Officers.
9.0
Use of the Library Postgraduate Reading Room by Undergraduates during the Examination Period (page 43) A motion proposing a Union campaign to open up the postgraduate reading room in the library to undergraduate students during the examination period.
10.0
ATMs on Campus (page 44) A motion calling for an investigation concerning the future of ATMs on the Mile End campus.
11.0
Campaign for Q-Review (page 45) A motion proposing a Union campaign to extend the pilot of Q-Review, a lecture recording service.
1
12.0
Dyslexia Testing to Remain Free to Students (page 46) A motion calling for an investigation into the financial situation regarding the College’s decision to reduce the subsidy to students that undertake dyslexia testing.
13.0
Researching the need for a Students with Disabilities Representative for Barts and the London (page 47) A motion proposing that the Union undertakes research to identify the need for a Students with Disabilities Representative (Barts and The London).
14.0
Accessibility for Students with Disabilities on Campus (page 48) A motion to lobby the College to improve physical and virtual accessibility.
15.0
Action Plan for Students with Disabilities (page 49) A motion proposing that the Union and College develops and adopts an action plan to improve accessibility for students with disabilities.
16.0
Time, date and place of next meeting Tuesday 31 January at 6.30pm in Francis Bancroft Room 1.02.6
2
Student Council Minutes Wednesday 23 November 2011 at 6.30pm in the Milton Lecture Theatre, Garrod Building
Chair: Eleanor Hallam Mile End Officers present (12): Ben Richardson (Student Representative) Caz Parra (Secretary) Darcie Tyler-Henley (Volunteering Officer) Dominic Todd (Sports Officer) - part Donald MacKinnon (LGBT Officer) Edoardo Palmombo (Welfare Officer) Ellen Kiely (RAG Officer) Mile End Officer apologies (4) Andrew Kanyemba (Black Students Officer) Chris Smith (Student Representative) - proxy
Michael Gilbert (Postgraduate Officer) Ozzy Amir (Campaigns Officer) Shaun Ramanah (Students with Disabilities Officer) – part Tom Voice (Ethical and Environmental Officer) Wilson Wong (Societies’ Officer)
Ciara Squires (Student Representative) - proxy Wanda Canton (Women’s Officer) - proxy
Barts and The London Officers present (11): Adnan Aslam (Dental Representative) Andrew Smith (Student Representative) Hannah Downer (Treasurer) Jeeves Wijesuriya (Vice-President London) Jon Cramphorn (Vice-President Barts) Mandi Pal (Secretary)
Michael Samy (Communications Officer) Richard Donovan (SSLC Rep) Rob Zabihi (Dental Representative) - part Salem Al-Sawaf (Entertainments Officer) Sam Chequer (Welfare Officer)
Barts and the London Officer apologies (3) Amy Coulden (Entertainments Officer) Nicolas Blondel (Campaigns Officer)
Tim Foster (Clubs and Societies’ Officer)
Sabbatical Officers in attendance: Sophie Richardson (President) George Ryan (Vice-President Association)
Sam Creighton (Vice-President Communications) Dominic Bell (Vice-President Activities)
Union Staff in attendance: Philip Gilks (Student Voice and Development Manager) Tom Sutton (Representation and Democracy Co-ordinator)
3
1.0
Apologies Apologies were noted and accepted.
2.0
Chair’s Welcome Announcements Chair welcomed members to the third meeting of the semester.
3.0
Minutes from the meeting of Student Council held on 1 November 2011 Noted and approved as an accurate record.
4.0
Officer Reports Noted. Sam Creighton voiced disappointment that only six out of thirty-six Part-time Officers sent in Officer reports before the close of the agenda. 4.1
Action Part-time Officers are to email tom.sutton@qmsu.org with a list three to five actions or activities (no more than 50 words per point) they have undertaken since the last meeting of Student Council to impact on students’ lives before the agenda item deadline for all future meetings.
5.0
Executive Action Plan Noted.
6.0
Election to Consultation Working Group Student Council elected members to the Consultation Working Group.
7.0
6.1
The Barts and The London Part-time Officers elected were Adnan Aslam, Jeeves Wijesuriya, Jon Cramphorn and Richard Donovan.
6.2
The Mile End Part-time Officers elected were Darcie Tyler-Henley, Edoardo Palombo, Ozzy Amir and Wilson Wong.
6.3
The Full-time Officers elected were Dominic Bell and George Ryan.
Representative and Democratic Decision Making. Dominic Bell spoke for a motion to create deadlines for agenda items, motions and supplementary items for Student Council. He argued that creating this rule would avoid rushed policy making without consultation with students and will lead to more representative decision making. Dominic Bell waved the summation. Student Council voted for the motion. - 21members voted for - 0 members voted against - 3 members abstained
8.0
Bring a Guest Ben Richardson spoke for a motion to require Officers to bring a guest to future Student Council meetings. He argued it was important to increase the number of students attending Student Council and could increase student interest in the Union. Andy Smith spoke against the motion. He argued that forcing members of Student Council to bring a guest would not necessarily encourage students to attend and take an active role. George Ryan spoke for the motion. He argued that the motion was a step in the right direction in terms of involving more students with Student Council. He pointed out the motion did not force Officers or students to do anything.
4
Edoardo Palombo spoke against the motion. He argued that it was difficult to motivate students to attend the General Meeting and implied it would be difficult to motivate students to attend Student Council. The Union needed more of a publicity strategy to encourage students to get involved in Student Council. Ben Richardson waved the summation. Student Council voted against the motion. - 6 members voted for - 16 members voted against - 3 members abstained 9.0
No Confidence in the Minister for Universities and Science Sam Creighton spoke for a motion outlining a position of no-confidence in David Willets, the Government Minister for Universities and Science. He argued Willet’s policies such as higher university fees, cuts to teaching grants and reforms to research funding had thrown the Higher Education sector into chaos. Sophie Richardson waved the summation. Student Council voted for the motion. - 20 members voted for - 1 members voted against - 4 members abstained
10.0
NUS National Demonstration Ozzy Amir spoke for a motion calling for a NUS National Demonstration. He argued that another demonstration co-ordinated by the National Union of Students would help continue the fight against the governments reforms to Higher Education. Demonstrations had proven themselves to be an effective method of expressing dissent. 10.1
Amendment Noted Ozzy Amir’s amendment to delete all and insert a re-worded motion.
Ozzy Amir waved the summation. Student Council voted for the motion. - 16 members voted for - 2 members voted against - 7 members abstained 11.0
UAF Affiliation Edoardo Palombo spoke for a motion seeking affiliation to the pressure group Unite Against Fascism. He argued affiliation was line with the Union’s existing policies on zero-tolerance and anti-fascism. Although a debate against fascism should take place, fascist groups should not be permitted to speak on campus to incite racism and hatred. Michael Gilbert spoke against the motion. He argued the adoption of a no-platform policy, which the motion proposed, infringed upon the right to free speech and the right to freedom of expression. Fascism was not countered by excluding fascists from debate. Edoardo Palombo spoke for the motion. He argued, the University or the Union should not promote any belief that racist speech is acceptable. Members of fascist groups should not be permitted to enter campus and use language that offends people. Juel Ahmed (Computer Science) spoke against the motion. He argued support for fascist groups was at an all-time low and removing a platform was equivalent to declaring we don’t want to debate or discuss the issue.
5
Donald MacKinnon spoke for the motion. He argued affiliation to Unite Against Fascism was hugely beneficial and widely supported. Those speaking against the adoption of a no-platform policy should have submitted an amendment to the motion. Sam Creighton spoke against the motion. He argued that the motion did not propose a comprehensive no-platform policy. If the Union did adopt a no-platform policy it should be one that protects students and establishes clear guidelines. Chair moved to a vote. Less than two-thirds of Student Council voted for the motion. - 5 members voted for - 17 members voted against - 3 members abstained 12.0
Reinstate Vik Chechi Ozzy Amir spoke for a motion to issue support for Vik Chechi, the suspended Queen Mary Branch Secretary of the Trade Union Unison. He argued the union organiser had been suspended by the College for his Trade Union involvement. The motion called for him to be reinstated. 12.1
Clarification Andy Smith sought clarification on what grounds the Branch Secretary was suspended. - Michael Gilbert was assured it was for Trade Union activity.
Sophie Richardson spoke against the motion. She argued the Union should avoid taking a stance until all the facts are made public and the relevant College and employment processes were concluded. 12.2
Procedural Motion Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for a procedural motion to vote on QMSU resolves in parts. He argued taking QMSU resolves in parts would allow Officers to support QMSU notes and QMSU believes without supporting points of QMSU resolves. Wilson Wong argued against the procedural motion. He argued that not all Officers were aware of being able to propose such procedural motion. The procedural motion could have been used by Officers at several points throughout the year. The motion should not pass to ensure consistency. Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for the procedural motion. He argued that just because some Officers were not aware it did not mean it should not be used in the current situation. Sophie Richardson spoke against the procedural motion. She argued that taking the motion in parts would not make any difference because the entire motion was not based on facts made public. Student Council voted against the procedural motion - 10 members voted for - 11 members voted against - 1 members abstained
Michael Gilbert made the summation for the motion. He argued the suspended Branch Secretary was successful in his role as a Union organiser, well respected by staff and student activists, and could have sufficiently antagonised the College to provoke his suspension. Student Council voted against the motion. - 8 members voted for - 10 members voted against
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13.0
7 members abstained
Motion for the Proposal of a Budget Reserved for New Societies and Clubs Edoardo Palombo spoke for a motion measures to boost the numbers of students involved in Union sports clubs and societies. He argued the Union had fewer clubs and societies per student membership compared to other London Unions and the set of measures proposed would increase the numbers of sports clubs and societies. Wilson Wong spoke against the motion. He argued the proposal did not give societies and sports clubs what they needed to be successful. Members of the Societies and Student Groups Advisory Board considered the proposals as ill-thought through. Edoardo Palombo spoke for the motion. He argued an increased budget would go a long way to allow new sports clubs and societies to form. Prospective societies and clubs supported the proposals. Andy Smith spoke against the motion. He argued the requirements in the motion were difficult for Barts and The London societies to achieve. More conditions should be applied to the additional grant to ensure funds are put to good use. Chair moved to a vote. Student Council voted against the motion. - 5 members voted for - 16 members voted against - 5 members abstained
14.0
Condemnation of Library Staff Redundancies Michael Gilbert spoke for a motion seeking Union condemnation of College staff redundancies. He argued the Union should support library staff facing redundancies. The redundancies would severely impact upon the student experience. Research suggested students felt the library was the safest location on campus, and library staff redundancies would reduce contact with distressed students. Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke against the motion. He argued it was not clear how many members of staff would lose their jobs and what impact it would have on library provision. If the library was considered as the safest location on campus the issue was not library staff redundancies but improving welfare services. Michael Gilbert for the motion. He argued that welfare services were likely to face staff cuts too. Fewer staff would adversely affect the student experience even if the College had committed to more staff hours. Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke against the motion. He argued if more staff hours had been committed by the College the staff changes may have a positive impact on library provision. If safety on campus was the concern, a motion should instead be proposed against redundancies in welfare services. Chair moved to a vote. Student Council voted for the motion. - 11 members voted for - 8 members voted against - 7 members abstained
15.0
Affiliation to Education Activist Network Ozzy Amir spoke for a motion seeking affiliation to the campaign group Education Activist Network. He argued the Union had worked closely with the group in the past campaigning in line with the Union’s policies on free education and opposing university cuts.
7
15.1
Amendment Noted Ozzy Amir’s amendment to delete all and insert a re-worded motion.
15.2
Clarification Sophie Richardson clarified that the affliction was subject to Queen Mary’s College Council’s approval of a bye-law change passed in January 2011 to allow Student Council to affiliate to external organisations.
Chair moved to a vote. Less than two-thirds of Student Council voted for the motion. - 16 members voted for - 4 members voted against - 5 members abstained 16.0
Time, date and place of next meeting 6.30pm on Tuesday 13 December in the David Sizer Lecture Theatre
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7.0
officer:
position:
Ben Richardson
Student Representative
Caz Parra
Secretary
Chris Smith
Student Representative
X
Ciara Squires
Student Representative
X
Darcie Tyler-Henley
Volunteering Officer
X
Dominic Todd
Sports Officer
Donald Mackinnon
LGBT Officer
X
Edoardo Palombo
Welfare Officer
X
Ellen Kiely
RAG Officer
Michael Gilbert
for
8.0 against abstain
X X
for
9.0 against abstain
for
10.0 against abstain
for
11.0 against abstain
for
against abstain
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X X
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
No record X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Postgraduate Officer
X
X
X
X
X
Ozzy Amir
Campaigns Officer
X
X
X
Shaun Ramanah
Students with Disabilities Officer
X
X
Tom Voice
Ethical and Environmental Officer
Wanda Canton
Womens Officer
Wilson Wong
Societies Officer
X
No record
X
X
X X
X
X X
X
X X X
X
X
X
X
X X X
9
12.1
12.0
officer:
position:
Ben Richardson
Student Representative
X
Caz Parra
Secretary
X
Chris Smith
Student Representative
No record
Ciara Squires
Student Representative
No record
Darcie Tyler-Henley
Volunteering Officer
Dominic Todd
Sports Officer
Donald Mackinnon
LGBT Officer
X
X
Edoardo Palombo
Welfare Officer
X
X
Ellen Kiely
RAG Officer
Michael Gilbert
Postgraduate Officer
X
X
Ozzy Amir
Campaigns Officer
X
X
Shaun Ramanah
Students with Disabilities Officer
Tom Voice
Ethical and Environmental Officer
Wanda Canton
Womens Officer
Wilson Wong
Societies Officer
for
against abstain
for
13.0 against abstain
for
14.0 against abstain
X
X X
X
X
X
No record
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X X
X X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X
against abstain
X
X
X
No record
for
X
X X
15.0 against abstain
X
X
X X
for
X X
X
10
7.0
8.0
9.0
10.0
officer:
position:
Adnam Aslam
Dental Representative
X
X
X
Andrew Smith
Student Representative
X
X
X
X
Hannah Downer
Treasurer
X
X
X
X
Jeeves Wijesuriya
Vice-President London
X
X
Jon Cramphorn
Vice-President Barts
X
X
X
Mandi Pal
Secretary
X
X
Micheal Samy
Communications Officer
X
X
Richard Donovan
SSLC Representative
X
X
Robert Zabihi
Dental Representative
X
X
X
Salem Al-Sawaf
Entertainments Officer
X
X
X
Sam Chequer
Welfare Officer
X
X
for
against abstain
X
for
against abstain
for
against abstain
for
11.0 against abstain
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
against abstain
X
X
X
X
for
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
X X
X
X
11
12.1
12.0
13.0
14.0
15.0
officer:
position:
Adnam Aslam
Dental Representative
Andrew Smith
Student Representative
X
X
X
X
X
Hannah Downer
Treasurer
X
X
X
X
X
Jeeves Wijesuriya
Vice-President London
X
Jon Cramphorn
Vice-President Barts
X
Mandi Pal
Secretary
Micheal Samy
Communications Officer
Richard Donovan
SSLC Representative
Robert Zabihi
Dental Representative
X
Salem Al-Sawaf
Entertainments Officer
X
X
Sam Chequer
Welfare Officer
X
X
for
against abstain
X
for
against abstain
X
X X
for
against abstain
X
X
X X
X X
against abstain
X
X
X
for
X
X X
X
against abstain
X
X
X
for
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X X X X
X
X
X
No record X
12
Ciara Squires (Student Representative) - Worked to build and took an active role in november the 30th, including stop the cuts meeting involving students and lecturers, doing stalls to promote it, talking to students about the changes in higher education funding and taking part in picket lines with our lecturers. Massive increase in student participation from the last strike day. - Talking to as many students and staff, including library staff as possible about their views on cuts to the university and campaigns they want to take part in, promoting QMUL's petition of no confidence in Minister for Science and Higher Education David Willetts. - Started to make plans for this years 'festival 51' with womens officer and QMequality to try and resolve issues from last year and make this years festival bigger and better to get more students involved.
Chris Smith (Student Representative) - Looking at the future of ATM machines. Received no response from Union Staff. Potential to submit a motion, asking QMSU to investigate the future. - After discussion with freshers, approached Residential Services about issues of private accommodation and lack of support. Response provided no insight into how they planned to develop the service for next year. - Discussion with Hockey President over issues club faces due to poor SU planning e.g. match not booked/double booked - Agreed to join Claire's programme for training part-time officers.
Darcie Tyler-Henley (Volunteering Officer) - Worked with team provide to put on a volunteer recruitment event: "When Opportunity Knocks". - Set up an "Ask a Volunteer" Area at the event to allow students to ask current volunteers about their experiences. - Met with the Volunteer Co-ordinator and Manager in the Students Union to arrange training for our new CAD (Community Action Day) Leaders. - With the team and staff members we have increased number the Community Action Days in November to 7, from last years 2. Providing more opportunities for students to get involved, with a wider range of events. - Currently working closely with staff and volunteers to plan for January's Student Volunteering Week.
Dominic Todd (Sports Officer) -
Attended two club Sports Club Advisory Boards Contributed to the new Sports Club Bye-Laws Helped set the date for the Merger Cup Pressed the Vice President Student Activities into changing the finance system for sports.
Donald MacKinnon (LGBT Officer) - I worked on the LGBT society to facilitate greater involvement of trans students through the creation of a committee space of “trans officer”. He very quickly organized a trans Remembrance Day and Queen Mary’s first Trans social. Trans participation and has increased and I am now able to support a wider proportion of my base. - I contacted Stonewall to reassess Queen Mary on the LGB university table, which resulted in 13
increased in points for QM; as a great place for LGBT students to come. - I attended a meeting for the London Students Manifesto, in which I expressed the interests of LGBT people strongly. I am currently meeting with ULU LGBT officers to consult on the results of this. I hope to mobilize support through casual relationships to further the political objectives of Queen Mary and LGBT people mutually. - I attended conferences and lectures relating to LGBT oppression and the struggle for Liberation and encouraged other students to join me. I met Hannah Dee, a prominent LGBT activist and author of ‘The Red in the Rainbow� and plan on using this relationship to set up a political debate around the LGBT society. - I marched with Queers against the Cuts and LGBT NUS ULU in several demonstrations fighting against the effects of austerity measures on LGBT people..
Michael Gilbert (Postgraduate Officer) - I have attended a college E-Strategy Committee meeting, arguging for the provision of free printing facilities for all postgraduate research students and providing feedback on T.A. satisfaction. - I have attended and spoken at the college's postgraduate event evening - I have continued preparation for the first postgraduate debating event. - I have further communicated with library staff to monitor the effect of staff redundancies on student service.
Tom Voice (Ethical and Environmental Officer) - I have meet with Thames 21 to discuss plans to cleaning of the mile end cannal and ensuring that it stays clean. This involves preporation for a media and advertising campaign which higlights the issuess of littering for the river. It also requires looking at the placment of more bins along the canal and meeting university staff to arrange this. - I have been in discussions with Green Mary to facaliate a veg patch on campus. I have found out from Green Mary their environmental aims as a society for the coming academic year and how they want to go about achieving these.
Wanda Canton (Womens Officer) - Organised and spoke at 'The Cuts - a Feminist Perspective' - Mobilised to help to build N30 - In conversation with VP Welfare and external organisers about upcoming event concerning gender violence - Organised successful first ever QMEquality social - Continued with QMEquality.
Wilson Wong (Societies Officer) - Contributed in the initiation of the "Beyond the Degree" programme that recognises people who make significant contributions to societies and in other areas of the union. - Made preliminary plans for Refreshers' Fair 2012 to be held on a day between 12th to 20th January. - Actively encouraged all SSGAB advisors to complete their SMART forms in order to set an example and commence the final drive for all affiliated societies to complete their SMART forms. - Took part in the alteration of the PT Societies Officer's Job Description to cover the representative roles of VPSA next year..
14
Andy Smith (Student Representative) -
-
-
-
-
I attended the (Inter)National MedSoc Conference in Birmingham which provided a fantastic opportunity to integrate with other medical students and share numerous things. I produced a poster for the above conference to show off BLSA which was awarded 2nd place in the poster competition. An investigation is currently underway to investigate allegations of fraud what with the hosts being awarded 1st place. (An investigation is not actually underway). I assisted in the composition of the successful bid to host next year’s conference. This will provide BL students a fantastic opportunity to get involved in organising a national conference. Furthermore it will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the facilities and community at BL. I, along with Mr Ryan, have developed a “Name and Shame/Praise” themed survey to distribute to medical students. This is based around clinical placements as students in all years have exposure to clinical practice (especially years 3-5). Therefore, a thorough investigation into which placements are good or bad is needed. I met with Dom Bell, Toby Emmerson and James Mountain, along with George Ryan and Timmy Foster to discuss sporting matters at BL and QM. Interesting issues were raised and there has already been reactions from BL clubs to the topics discussed. I have purchased a present for the SPC Secret Santa initiative.
Jeeves Wijesuriya & Jon Cramphorn (Vice President Barts & Vice President London) -
-
Settling up a graduation committee to organise the marquee events from all years. Securing funding for annual events and organising a new young alumni system. Setting up pan London campaigns on mental health and NHS healthcare reform, organising pan London medical student newspaper the London medical student Representing bl students at the annual national medsoc conference and organising the creation of a national medsoc listserver. Consulting with Edinburgh and Cardiff on setting up wales and Scotland medgroups to mirror London’s on own representation. Attending Young Civitas and BMA meetings to discuss current affairs and representing the views of bl students Campaigning on the student charter and tariff changes with the BMA listserver
Richard Donovan (SSLC Representative) - Conferences: - Attended two Medical Education Conferences: one national and one institutional. - Signed up for similar future conferences. - Debates: - Attended a debate concerning the possible privatisation of the NHS and how this would impact us as doctors, students and patients.. - Meetings: - There have been no SSLC meetings since the last Student Council meeting. - Dissemination of information to students: - Wrote a double-page spread for The Vulture to improve dissemination (awaiting publishing). - Keeping the SPC in good spirits during the exam period: - Proposed an SPC Secret Santa, because everyone loves the festive season!
Tim Foster (Clubs and Societies Officer) Met with an action group to discuss development of Sport at BL. Discussed the proposals with an informal focus group so that I could roughly gauge opinion on ideas produced. - Help promote Get Active amongst the student body at BL. -
15
A. elections lead: vice-president communications and president we will: A1
A2
A3
Turnout Increase votes cast in the main Union elections by 20% from 2,800 to 3,500. Candidates Increase the numbers of candidates standing for each position and improve the course diversity of election candidates.
Elections Strategy Develop a union-wide strategy for the promotion of elections and nominations by December 2011.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Eventual votes cast in the main Union elections exceed 3,500.
- Branding has been decided and dates set. - Another meeting of relevant staff has been planned for before the end of the semester.
- At least five candidates stand for each crosscampus Full-time Officer position. - At least three students from Barts and The London stand for Vice-President Barts and the London. - At least five students from the Faculty of Science and Engineering stand for crosscampus Full-time Officer positions. - At least one candidate stands for each Parttime Officer position, and 75% are contested.
- All Full-time Officers are now regularly using their Twitter accounts. - President and Vice President Association/President BLSA will feature as job descriptions in the last issue of QMessenger of the semester in order to promote the roles and awareness of what the jobs entail.
- A strategy exists by December 2011 and majority of actions are undertaken.
- Dave Gilmore (NUS staff member) has been appointed the RO and Sarah Gifford the DRO.
N
D
N
D
B. widening participation students lead: president and vice-president education and welfare we will: B1
Postgraduate Events Hold at least two events for Postgraduate Students to gather their views and opinions on education and welfare matters by May 2012.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Two events for Postgraduate Students are held with over 20 attendees.
- Second Postgraduate event held. The 35 attendees were surveyed on supervision and supervisors, graduate teaching responsibilities and provisions in the Students’ Union. 16
B. widening participation students (continued) lead: president and vice-president education and welfare we will: B2
B3
International Events Hold at least two events for International Students to gather their views and opinions on education and welfare matters by May 2012. Liberation Campaigns Support each liberation group to organise at least one campaign action or activity before May 2012.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Two events for International Students are held with over 20 attendees.
- No progress.
- Two events for International Students are held with over 20 attendees.
- Independent support groups have been formed by Liberation Officers on the Mile End campus.
N
D
N
D
C. national student survey lead: vice-president education and welfare we will: C1
C2
C3
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
Question 23 We will be in the upper quartile of participating Students’ Unions in the new National Student Survey question on Students’ Union impact.
- We appear it the upper quartile of participating Students Unions when the National Student Survey results are published in August 2012.
- A meeting with key staff has been called to react to the student consultation.
Mock Question 23 We will ask at least 500 students Question 23 in November 2011 and create a list of actions reacting to student feedback.
- We ask at least 500 students and complete a majority of actions reacting to student feedback.
- 53 students have been asked
Increasing Participation Rate Working with the College increase the participation rate in the National Student Survey by 5%.
- We appear to have increased the participation rate by 5% when the last National Student Survey update is received in May 2012.
- Meeting with Carol Rennie (College staff member responsible for NSS) has been planned for this semester. - The College have agreed to give an iPad to the QMUL NSS as an incentive to students.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75 17
100
D. union structure reform lead: president we will: D1
D2
D3
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
Articles of Association Propose and pass new governing documents (Articles of Association) to allow the Union to register as an incorporated charity.
- A General Meeting, Student Council and the Board of Trustees pass the new governing documents.
- Articles have now been fully approved by all necessary bodies.
Officer Structure Review Reform Full-time Officer and Part-time Officer roles and titles to focus all positions on a representative role before October 2011.
- A General Meeting and Student Council pass proposals to reform Full-time Officer and Parttime Officer roles and titles.
- Full job descriptions will be finalised by the end of the semester in time for elections in the new year.
Bye-Law Review Review the Union’s existing bye-laws and rewrite or write any new bye-laws considered as a required.
- A review of existing Bye-Laws is conducted any rewritten or new Bye-Laws are approved by student Council and the Board of Trustees.
- Time plan has been put together with a list of all bye-laws to be reviewed and rewritten.
N
D
N
D
E. officer visibility lead: vice-president communications we will: E1
E2
Go-out-and-talk Speak to over 2,500 students through go-outand-talk in 2011-12. New Media Increase communication through new media such as Twitter, Facebook and blogging.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- 2,500 students are recorded as spoken to before May 2012.
- Approximately 300 students have taken part in Go-out-and-talk so far this year.
- Full-time Officers set up their own Twitter accounts and tweet at least once a day. - Full-time Officers set up and make use of a QMSU Exec Facebook profile. - Full-time Officers will blog weekly and write a weekly column in QMessenger.
- All Full-time Officers are now tweeting regularly. - All Full-time Officers are entering columns to QMessenger every week.
18
E. officer visibility (continued) lead: vice-president communications we will: E3
Full-time Officer Question Time Organise one question time event in each semester to allow to students to question Fulltime Officers on their work.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Question time events take place and have more than 75 student attending.
- The event is planned for Monday 12 December.
N
D
N
D
F. student council lead: vice-president student activities and blsa president we will: F1
F2
F3
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- A Communications Strategy exists and more student members attend and submit motions than 2010-11.
- Students have submitted motions to Council and have attended meetings.
Officer Action Plans Support Part-time Officers to create an action plan for their full term of office before November 2011.
- All officers have created an action plan before November 2011.
- A majority of the Part-time Officer Action plans have been written and need to be signed off by Officers.
Mentoring Meet with our Part-time Officer mentees a least once a month and identify how we can support them in their role.
- Meetings with Part-time Officers take place each month.
- Dom and George meet regularly with their mentees. - Sam, Oscar and Sophie finding it difficult to get replies.
Communications Strategy Develop a communications strategy for Student Council including dates and time of meetings and how to submit motions by November 2011.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
19
100
G. mayoral elections lead: vice-president student activities we will: G1
G2
G3
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- A polling station is agreed by the local authority and is established for the Mayoral Election.
- Contact has been made with the Electoral Commission.
London Students’ Manifesto Work with other London Unions to produce, launch and publicise a London Students’ Manifesto and the key demands of London Students by January 2012.
- A London Students’ Manifesto is developed, launched and publicised with Queen Mary Students’ involvement.
- The London Students’ Manifesto has now been written and will be launched in the new year (date tbc).
Local Activity Work with the College to establish a Polling station on the Mile End Campus and organise a Question Time Event for our local Greater London Authority candidates by January 2012.
- A polling station is agreed by the local authority and a Question Time Event takes place.
- Contact has been made with the Electoral Commission.
Voter-registration and Postal Votes Develop a strategy for student voter registration and registering for a postal vote by November 2011.
N
D
N
D
H. assessment and feedback lead: vice-president education and welfare & vice-president association we will: H1
Student-Staff Liaison Committees Utilise the Course Rep network to ensure assessment and feedback is discussed at every student-staff liaison committee meeting.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Discussions on assessment and feedback takes place in 75% of student-Staff Liaison Committee meetings.
- Oscar is currently meeting with Course Reps.
20
H. assessment and feedback (continued) lead: vice-president education and welfare & vice-president association we will: H2
H3
Joint Strategy With the College develop a joint strategy for addressing identified issues with assessment and feedback for implementation in September 2012. Engaging Campaign Activity Organise a campaign activity that engages at least 1,000 students in campaigning for improved assessment and feedback.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- A joint strategy is drawn up with the College and implemented in September 2012.
- No Progress
- A campaign activity is organised and at least 1,000 students are engaged.
- No Progress
N
D
N
D
I. fees and cuts lead: vice-president communications we will: I1
I2
I2
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
National Demonstration Rally at least 200 students to attend the National Student Demonstration against fees and cuts on 9 November.
- At least 200 students attend the National Demonstration.
- 100 students supported trade union staff on the picket line on 30 November.
Value for Money Organise a campaign activity that engages at least 1,000 students in determining which College services are value for money.
- A campaign activity is organised and at least 1,000 students are engaged.
- No progress.
Postgraduate and International Fees Ensure the College engages the Union when it sets International and Postgraduate fees for 2012-13 and students are guaranteed value for money.
- The College engages the Union when it sets International and Postgraduate fees for 201213.
- Officers are engaging with the College over fees.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
21
100
6.0
Election Dates
The Board of Trustees has set dates for the Union’s main elections. They are: 9 January 2 February 2 February 10 February 16 February 16 February
Nominations Open Nominations Close Main Candidate Meeting Voting Begins Voting Ends Results Party and Announcements
The Board of Trustees has also appointed Dave Gilmore, an NUS staff member, the Returning Officer and Sarah Gifford, the Union’s Volunteer Manager, the Deputy Returning Officer for the elections.
22
7.0
Executive Officers Duties and Responsibilities
Proposer: Seconder:
Sam Creighton (Vice President Communication) Sophie Richardson (President)
QMSU notes: 1. That the Union General Meeting and Student Council have approved new Sabbatical Trustee positions from the 2012/13 academic year. 2. The Sabbatical Trustees, also known as Executive Officers, will be; (i) President (ii) Vice President Education (iii) Vice President Welfare (iv) Vice President Barts and The London 3. For a document to become a Bye-Law, it is required to be passed at a meeting of the Board of Trustees in consultation with Student Council. QMSU believes: 1. We need role descriptions for the Executive Officer positions for the promotion of the positions from early January for the Union elections. QMSU Resolves: 1. To adopt the attached document as the duties and responsibilities of Executive Officers elected from 2012. 2. To recommend to the Board of Trustees that the attached Role Purposes form a Bye-Law titled ‘Executive Officers’.
23
Bye Law Executive Officers 1.0
There are four Sabbatical Trustees, which shall also be known as Executive Officers. These positions are full-time paid roles of the Union elected in accordance with the Election ByeLaw.
1.1
The positions shall be called:
1.1.1
President
1.1.2
Vice President Education
1.1.3
Vice President Welfare
1.1.4
Vice President Barts and The London
1.2
These positions are the full membership of the Executive Committee.
1.3
Sabbatical Trustees can be removed in accordance with the Articles of Association.
2.0
President The following are the duties and responsibilities of the President.
2.1
The President shall: (i)
Be the voice of students at Queen Mary, University of London.
(ii)
Chair and co-ordinate the work of the Board of Trustees.
(iii)
Chair and co-ordinate the work of the Executive Committee including the implementation of Union Policy.
(iv)
Organise, in conjunction with the rest of the Executive Committee, campaigns which relate to the interests of all students.
(v)
Seek feedback from members.
(vi)
Provide reports and updates to Student Council and support the Student Representatives and Part-time Officers.
(vii)
Oversee the management of the Union, including staffing, through the Chief Executive Officer.
(viii)
Be responsible for the interpretation in the case of a disagreement and the review of the Articles of Association and Bye-Laws.
(ix)
Ensure that there is an up-to-date policy archive of the Union that should be easily accessible to all students.
(x)
Be responsible for the conduct of the Union’s relations with the College, ULU, NUS and other key organisations that impact on the student experience at Queen Mary, University of London.
24
3.0
(xi)
Be the Union’s official delegate to NUS National Conference and ULU Senate.
(xii)
Be an ex-officio member of College Council.
(xiii)
Report on the performance of the Union’s services to appropriate stakeholders.
(xiv)
Be the principal spokesperson for the Union to the media.
(xv)
Ensure the Union adheres to the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws and Policy.
(xvi)
Ensure that appropriate support and opportunities are available for students wanting to be involved in student media, sports, societies and volunteering.
(xvii)
Be the single shareholder and a director for the Unions subsidiary company, Queen Mary Students’ Union Services Limited.
(xviii)
Ensure the Union is meeting its environmental obligations.
(xix)
Do all other duties as stated in the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws, Policy or delegated from the Board of Trustees or Student Council.
Vice President Education The following are the duties and responsibilities of the Vice President Education.
3.1
The Vice President Education shall: (i)
Be the voice of students at Queen Mary, University of London, on education-related matters.
(ii)
Be a Trustee of Queen Mary Students’ Union and fulfil the relevant duties.
(iii)
Implement policy as part of the Executive Committee.
(iv)
Organise, in conjunction with the rest of the Executive Committee, campaigns which relate to the interests of all students, especially on academic matters.
(v)
Seek feedback from members on academic issues.
(vi)
Be the Officer lead on individual advocacy relating to academic issues. Support and develop the Course Representative System.
(vii)
Chair the Education Zone Committee, report to Student Council on its activities and support its members.
(viii)
Develop policy for Student Council to improve the academic experience for the Union’s members.
(ix)
Attend all relevant meetings of the College, including Senate.
(x)
Communicate and attend events with external and internal bodies on academic matters, including NUS and ULU.
(xi)
Lobby the College to provide the optimal academic experience for students.
(xii)
Do all other duties as stated in the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws, Policy or delegated from the Board of Trustees or Student Council. 25
4.0
Vice President Welfare The following are the duties and responsibilities of the Vice President Welfare.
4.1
5.0
The Vice President Welfare shall: (i)
Be the voice of students at Queen Mary, University of London, on welfare-related matters.
(ii)
Be a Trustee of Queen Mary Students’ Union and fulfil the relevant duties.
(iii)
Implement policy as part of the Executive Committee.
(iv)
Organise, in conjunction with the rest of the Executive Committee, campaigns which relate to the interests of all students, especially matters relating to welfare, equal opportunities and the community.
(v)
Seek feedback from members on welfare, equal opportunity and community issues.
(vi)
Be the Officer lead on individual advocacy relating to welfare, equal opportunity and community issues.
(vii)
Support and develop ‘Mums and Dads’ and other student welfare systems.
(viii)
Chair the Welfare Zone Committee, report to Student Council on its activities and support its members.
(ix)
Support committees and working groups relating to welfare and liberation issues and provide regular updates to Student Council.
(x)
Develop policy for Student Council to improve the welfare and community experience for the Union’s members.
(xi)
Attend all relevant meetings in the College.
(xii)
Communicate and attend events with external and internal bodies on welfare, equal opportunities and community matters, including NUS and ULU.
(xiii)
Be the lead Officer on societies’ issues relating to the welfare of students.
(xiv)
Lobby the College to provide the optimal welfare experience for students.
(xv)
Be responsible for widening participation in the community and in Union activities.
(xvi)
Do all other duties as stated in the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws, Policy or delegated from the Board of Trustees or Student Council.
Vice President Barts and The London The following are the duties and responsibilities of the Vice President Barts and The London.
5.1
The Vice President Barts and The London shall: (i)
Be the voice of students at Queen Mary, University of London, who study in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
(ii)
Be a Trustee of Queen Mary Students’ Union and fulfil the relevant duties. 26
(iii)
Implement policy as part of the Executive Committee.
(iv)
Organise, in conjunction with the rest of the Executive Committee, campaigns which relate to the interests of all students, especially those studying in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
(v)
Seek feedback from members on academic, welfare, equal opportunities and community issues.
(vi)
Support the President and other Vice Presidents with the work they do on academic and welfare issues.
(vii)
Support the Course Representative System in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
(viii)
Chair the Barts and The London Students’ Association Board, report to Student Council on its activities and support its members.
(ix)
Develop policy for Student Council on relevant issues affecting the Union’s members in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
(x)
Attend all relevant meetings in the College, and be an advocate for all students studying at Queen Mary, University of London.
(xi)
Communicate and attend events with external and internal bodies on relevant topics, including NUS and ULU.
(xii)
Lobby the College to provide the optimal experience for students.
(xiii)
Do all other duties as stated in the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws, Policy or delegated from the Board of Trustees or Student Council.
27
8.0
Student Representatives and Part-time Officers Duties and Responsibilities
Proposer: Seconder:
Dominic Bell (Vice President Student Activities) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education and Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. That the Union General Meeting and Student Council have approved new Student Representative and Part-time Officer roles from the 2012/13 academic year. 2. The Student Representative and Part-time Officers will be; (i) Two Humanities and Social Science Faculty Representatives (ii) Two Science and Engineering Faculty Representatives (iii) First Year Representative (Mile End) (iv) Postgraduate Research Representative (Mile End) (v) Postgraduate Taught Representative (Mile End) (vi) International Representative (Mile End - Education) (vii) First Year Representative (Barts and The London) (viii) Postgraduate Research Representative (Barts and The London) (ix) Postgraduate Taught Representative (Barts and The London) (x) International Representative (Barts and The London) (xi) Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Pre-Clinical) (xii) Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Clinical) (xiii) Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Dental) (xiv) The Welfare Representative (Mile End) (xv) The LGBT Representative (Mile End) (xvi) The Multi-Cultural Representative (Mile end) (xvii) The Students with Disabilities Representative (Mile End) (xviii) The Womens Representative (Mile End) (xix) The International Representative (Mile End - Welfare) (xx) The Welfare Representative (Barts and The London) (xxi) The LGBT Representative (Barts and the London) (xxii) The Multi-Cultural Representative (Barts and The London) (xxiii) The Campaigns Officer (Barts and The London) (xxiv) The RAG Officer (Mile End) (xxv) The Societies Officer (Mile End) (xxvi) The Sports Officer (Mile End) (xxvii) The Volunteering Officer (Mile End) (xxviii) The RAG Officer (Barts and The London) (xxix) The Societies Officer (Barts and The London) (xxx) The Sports Officer (Barts and The London) (xxxi) The Volunteering Officer (Barts and The London) (xxxii) The Vice-President Barts (xxxiii) The Vice-President London (xxxiv) The Dental Society President 3. For a document to become a Bye-Law, it is required to be passed at a meeting of the Board of Trustees in consultation with Student Council. QMSU believes: 1. We need role descriptions for the Student Representative and Part-time Officer positions for the promotion of the positions from early January for the Union elections. QMSU Resolves: 1. To adopt the attached document as the duties and responsibilities of Student Representatives and Part-time Officers elected from 2012. 2. To recommend to the Board of Trustees that the attached Role Purposes form a Bye-Law titled ‘Student Representatives and Part-time Officers’.
28
Bye-Law Student Representatives and Part-time Officers 1.
Education Representatives
1.1
Positions
1.1.1
The Education Representatives elected by and from Mile End students shall be:
1.1.2
(i)
First Year Representative (Mile End)
(ii)
Postgraduate Research Representative (Mile End)
(iii)
Postgraduate Taught Representative (Mile End)
(iv)
International Representative (Mile End - Education)
The Education Representatives elected by and from Humanities and Social Sciences students shall be: (i)
1.1.3
The Education Representatives elected by and from Science and Engineering students shall be: (i)
1.1.4
1.1.5
1.1.6
Two Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Representatives
Two Science and Engineering Faculty Representatives
The Education Representatives elected by and from Barts and The London students shall be: (i)
First Year Representative (Barts and The London)
(ii)
Postgraduate Research Representative (Barts and The London)
(iii)
Postgraduate Taught Representative (Barts and The London)
(iv)
International Representative (Barts and The London)
The Education Representatives elected by and from Barts and The London medical students shall be: (i)
Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Pre-Clinical)
(ii)
Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Clinical)
The Education Representatives elected by and from Barts and The London dental students shall be: (i)
Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Dental)
1.2
Committee Membership
1.2.1
All Education Representatives shall be members of Student Council
1.2.2
All Education Representatives shall be members of the Education Zone Committee
1.2.3
The International Representative (Barts and The London) shall be a member of the Welfare Zone Committee. 29
1.3
Eligibility
1.3.1
Members that stand for Education Representative positions must be members for the full term of office.
1.3.2
Members that stand for Education Representative positions must be part of the demographic of whose interest they would represent if elected from the start of the term of office.
1.4
Duties and Responsibilities
1.4.1
The Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Representatives shall:
1.4.2
1.4.3
1.4.4
(i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Humanities and Social Sciences students and Course Representatives.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Co-chair the Humanities and Social Sciences Faculty Forum.
(iv)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Humanities and Social Sciences students.
(v)
Encourage more Humanities and Social Sciences students to participate and engage with the Union.
The Science and Engineering Faculty Representatives shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Science and Engineering students and Course Representatives.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Co-chair the Science and Engineering Faculty Forum.
(iv)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Science and Engineering students.
(v)
Encourage more Science and Engineering students to participate and engage with the Union.
The First Year Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Mile End first year undergraduate students on academic issues.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Mile End first year undergraduate students.
(iv)
Encourage more Mile End first year undergraduate students to participate and engage with the Union.
The Postgraduate Research Representative (Mile End) shall: 30
1.4.5
1.4.6
1.4.7
(i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Mile End postgraduate research students on academic issues.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Mile End postgraduate research students.
(iv)
Encourage more Mile End postgraduate research students to participate and engage with the Union.
The Postgraduate Taught Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Mile End postgraduate taught students on academic issues.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Mile End postgraduate taught students.
(iv)
Encourage more Mile End postgraduate taught students to participate and engage with the Union.
The International Representative (Mile End - Education) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of international students studying on the Mile End campus on academic issues.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for international students studying on the Mile End campus.
(iv)
With the International Representative (Mile End - Welfare) encourage more Mile End international students to participate and engage with the Union.
(v)
Convene and co-ordinate with the International Representative (Mile End - Welfare) and International Representative (Barts and The London) the Union’s International Students Campaign Group.
The Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Pre-Clinical) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and the London pre-clinical medical students and Course Representatives.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education and the Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Co-chair the Medicine and Dentistry Faculty Forum.
(iv)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London preclinical medical students.
31
(v)
1.4.8
1.4.9
Encourage more Barts and The London pre-clinical medical students to participate and engage with the Union.
The Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Clinical) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and The London clinical medical students and Course Representatives.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education and the Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Co-chair the Medicine and Dentistry Faculty Forum.
(iv)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London clinical medical students
(v)
Encourage more Barts and The London clinical medical students to participate and engage with the Union.
The Barts and The London Faculty Representative (Dental) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and The London dental students and Course Representatives.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education and the Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Co-chair the Medicine and Dentistry Faculty Forum.
(iv)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London dental students.
(v)
Encourage more Barts and The London dental students to participate and engage with the Union.
1.4.10 The First Year Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and The London first year undergraduate students.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education and the Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London first year undergraduate students.
(iv)
Encourage more Barts and The London first year undergraduate students to participate and engage with the Union.
1.4.11 The Postgraduate Research Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and The London postgraduate research students.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
32
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London postgraduate research students.
(iv)
Encourage more Barts and The London postgraduate research students to participate and engage with the Union.
1.4.12 The Postgraduate Taught Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of Barts and The London postgraduate taught students.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic experience for Barts and The London postgraduate taught students.
(iv)
Encourage more Barts and The London postgraduate taught students to participate and engage with the Union.
(v)
Encourage more Barts and The London postgraduate taught students to participate and engage with the Union.
1.4.13 The International Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Seek feedback from and represent the interests of international students in the School of Medicine and Dentistry on academic and welfare issues.
(ii)
Support the Vice President Education and Vice President Welfare in their duties and responsibilities.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in the academic and welfare experience for international students studying in the School of Medicine and Dentistry.
(iv)
Encourage more Barts and The London international students to participate and engage with the Union.
(v)
Convene and co-ordinate with the International Representative (Mile End - Education) and International Representative (Mile End - Welfare) the Union’s International Students Campaign Group.
(vi)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
2.
Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representatives
2.1
Positions
2.1.1
The Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representatives elected by and from Mile End students shall be: (i)
The Welfare Representative (Mile End)
(ii)
The LGBT Representative (Mile End)
(iii)
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Mile end)
(iv)
The Students with Disabilities Representative (Mile End) 33
2.1.2
(v)
The Womens Representative (Mile End)
(vi)
The International Representative (Mile End - Welfare)
The Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representatives elected by and from Barts and The London students shall be: (i)
The Welfare Representative (Barts and The London)
(ii)
The LGBT Representative (Barts and the London)
(iii)
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Barts and The London)
(iv)
The Campaigns Officer (Barts and The London)
2.2
Committee Membership
2.2.1
All Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representatives shall be members of Student Council
2.2.2
All Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representatives shall be members of the Welfare Zone Committee.
2.3
Eligibility
2.3.1
Members that stand for Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representative positions must be members for the full term of office.
2.3.2
Members that stand for the following Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representative positions must be part of the demographic of whose interest they would represent if elected: (i)
2.3.3
The International Representative (Mile End - Welfare)
Members that stand for the following Welfare and Equal Opportunities Representative positions must first self-define as part of the demographic of whose interest they would represent if elected: (i)
The LGBT Representative (Mile End)
(ii)
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Mile end)
(iii)
The Students with Disabilities Representative (Mile End)
(iv)
The Womens Representative (Mile End)
(v)
The LGBT Representative (Barts and the London)
(vi)
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Barts and The London)
2.4
Duties and Responsibilities
2.4.1
The Welfare Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Support the Vice President Welfare in their duties and responsibilities.
(ii)
Seek feedback from Mile End students on welfare, equal opportunity and community issues. 34
2.4.2
2.4.3
2.4.4
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in student welfare and support services.
(iv)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
The LGBT Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End LGBT students and be their voice on the issues they face as LGBT students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Mile End LGBT students on the issues they face as LGBT students.
(iii)
Encourage more Mile End LGBT students to participate and engage with the Union.
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate with the LGBT Representative (Barts and The London) the Union’s LGBT Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
(vi)
Be the Union’s delegate to NUS LGBT Conference
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Mile end) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End multi-cultural students and be their voice on the issues they face as multi-cultural students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Mile End multi-cultural students on the issues they face as multi-cultural students.
(iii)
Encourage more Mile End multi-cultural students to participate and engage with the Union.
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Multi-Cultural Representative (Barts and The London) the Union’s Multi-Cultural Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
(vi)
Be the Union’s delegate to NUS Black Students Conference
The Students with Disabilities Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End students with disabilities and be their voice on the issues they face as students with disabilities.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Mile End students with disabilities on the issues they face as students with disabilities.
(iii)
Encourage more Mile End students with disabilities to participate and engage with the Union.
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate the Union’s Students with Disabilities Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
(vi)
Be the Union’s delegate to NUS Disabled Students Conference 35
2.4.5
2.4.6
2.4.7
2.4.8
The Womens Representative (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End women students with disabilities and be their voice on the issues they face as women students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Mile End women students on the issues they face as women students.
(iii)
Encourage more Mile End women students to participate and engage with the Union.
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate the Union’s Womens Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
(vi)
Be the Union’s delegate to NUS Womens Conference
The International Representative (Mile End - Welfare) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End international students and be their voice on the welfare related matters they face as international students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Mile End international students on the welfare issues they face as international students.
(iii)
With the International Representative (Mile End - Education) encourage more Mile End international students to participate and engage with the Union
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate with the International Representative (Mile End - Education) and International Representative (Barts and The London) the Union’s International Students Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
The Welfare Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Support the Vice President Welfare and Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(ii)
Seek feedback from Barts and The London students on welfare, equal opportunity and community issues.
(iii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements in student welfare and support services.
(iv)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
The LGBT Representative (Barts and the London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Barts and The London LGBT students and be their voice on the issues they face as LGBT students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Barts and The London LGBT students on the issues they face as LGBT students.
(iii)
Encourage more Barts and The London LGBT students to participate and engage with the Union. 36
2.4.9
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate with the LGBT Representative (Mile End) the Union’s LGBT Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
The Multi-Cultural Representative (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Barts and The London multi-cultural students and be their voice on the issues they face as multi-cultural students.
(ii)
Engage with the Queen Mary, University of London and other relevant organisations to achieve improvements for Barts and The London multi-cultural students on the issues they face as multi-cultural students.
(iii)
Encourage more Barts and The London multi-cultural students to participate and engage with the Union.
(iv)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Multi-Cultural Representative (Mie End) the Union’s Multi-Cultural Campaign Group.
(v)
Liaise with the members of the relevant clubs, societies and student groups.
2.4.10 The Campaigns Officer (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Organise and plan campaigns to achieve positive change for Barts and The London students in their education and broader student experience.
(ii)
Represent the interests of Barts and The London women students and Barts and The London students with disabilities and be their voice on the issues they face as women students and students with disabilities.
(iii)
Facilitate Womens and Student with Disabilities Campaigns.
3.
Part-time Officers
3.1
Positions
3.1.1
The Part-time Officers elected by and from Mile End students shall be:
3.1.2
(i)
The RAG Officer (Mile End)
(ii)
The Societies Officer (Mile End)
(iii)
The Sports Officer (Mile End)
(iv)
The Volunteering Officer (Mile End)
The Part-time officers elected by and from Barts and The London students shall be: (i)
The RAG Officer (Barts and The London)
(ii)
The Societies Officer (Barts and The London)
(iii)
The Sports Officer (Barts and The London)
(iv)
The Volunteering Officer (Barts and The London)
(v)
The Vice President Barts 37
(vi) 3.1.3
The Vice President London
The Part-time officers elected by and from Barts and The London dental students shall be: (i)
The Dental Society President
3.2
Committee Membership
3.2.1
All Part-time Officers shall be members of Student Council
3.3
Eligibility
3.3.1
Members that stand for Part-time Officer positions must be members for the full term of office.
3.4
Duties and Responsibilities
3.4.1
The RAG Officer (Mile End) shall:
3.4.2
(i)
Represent the interests of RAG and fundraising groups and be the voice of students involved in RAG and fundraising groups.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate the Union’s Mile End RAG Committee.
(iii)
Be responsible for planning and delivery of all Mile End RAG activity including the expenditure of any funds as directed by the Mile End RAG Committee.
(iv)
Ensure that all Mile End RAG events are organised in collaboration with the Union and adhere to Health and Safety requirements, financial requirements and the Equal Opportunities policy.
(v)
Liaise with selected charities, external organisations or causes who money is raised for.
(vi)
Engage, report and consult with the Societies and Student Groups Advisory Board.
(vii)
Develop charity fundraising within Mile End sports clubs, societies and student groups.
The Societies Officer (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End societies and student groups and be the voice of Mile End society and student group members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Societies Officer (Barts and The London) the Union’s Societies and Student Groups Advisory Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Mile End societies and student groups.
(iv)
Encourage and aid Union communication with Mile End societies and student groups.
(v)
Be the student face of Mile End societies and student groups and accessible to students with society or student group inquiries.
(vi)
Actively work to develop Mile End societies and student groups.
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(vii) 3.4.3
3.4.4
3.4.5
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The Sports Officer (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Mile End sports clubs and be the voice of Mile End London sports club members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Societies Officer (Barts and The London) the Union’s Sports Club Advisory Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Mile End sports clubs.
(iv)
Encourage and aid Union communication with Mile End sports clubs.
(v)
Be the student face of Mile End sports clubs and accessible to students with sports club inquiries.
(vi)
Actively work to develop Mile End sports clubs.
(vii)
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The Volunteering Officer (Mile End) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of the Union’s volunteering service and be the voice of its Mile End members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Volunteering Officer (Barts and The London) the Student Volunteering Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Mile End sports clubs.
(iv)
With the Volunteering Officer (Barts and The London) be the student face of the Union’s volunteering service and accessible to students with volunteering inquiries.
(v)
Actively work to develop the Union’s volunteering service.
(vi)
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The RAG Officer (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of RAG and fundraising groups and be the voice of students involved in RAG and fundraising groups.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate the Union’s Barts and The London RAG Committee.
(iii)
Be responsible for planning and delivery of all Barts and The London RAG activity including the expenditure of any funds as directed by the Barts and The London RAG Committee.
(iv)
Ensure that all Barts and The London RAG events are organised in collaboration with the Union and adhere to Health and Safety requirements, financial requirements and the Equal Opportunities policy.
(v)
Liaise with selected charities, external organisations or causes who money is raised for.
(vi)
Engage, report and consult with the Societies and Student Groups Advisory Board.
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(vii)
3.4.6
3.4.7
3.4.8
Develop charity fundraising within Barts and The London sports clubs, societies and student groups.
The Societies Officer (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Barts and The London societies and student groups and be the voice of Barts and The London society and student group members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Societies Officer (Mile End) the Union’s Societies and Student Groups Advisory Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Barts and The London societies and student groups.
(iv)
Encourage and aid Union communication with Barts and The London societies and student groups.
(v)
Be the student face of Barts and The London societies and student groups and accessible to students with society or student group inquiries.
(vi)
Actively work to develop Barts and The London societies and student groups.
(vii)
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The Sports Officer (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of Barts and The London sports clubs and be the voice of Barts and The London sports club members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Societies Officer (Mile End) the Union’s Sports Club Advisory Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Barts and The London sports clubs.
(iv)
Encourage and aid Union communication with Barts and The London sports clubs.
(v)
Be the student face of Barts and The London sports clubs and accessible to students with sports club inquiries.
(vi)
Actively work to develop Barts and The London sports clubs.
(vii)
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The Volunteering Officer (Barts and The London) shall: (i)
Represent the interests of the Union’s volunteering service and be the voice of its Barts and The London members.
(ii)
Convene and co-ordinate with the Volunteering Officer (Mile End) the Student Volunteering Board.
(iii)
Assist relevant members of Union staff with events, training and general support for Mile End sports clubs.
(iv)
With the Volunteering Officer (Mile End) be the student face of the Union’s volunteering service and accessible to students with volunteering inquiries.
(v)
Actively work to develop the Union’s volunteering service.
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(vi) 3.4.9
Fulfil additional duties as outlined in the Bye-Laws.
The Vice President Barts and The Vice President London shall: (i)
Support the Vice President Barts and The London in their duties and responsibilities.
(ii)
Be responsible for the organisation of Barts and The London graduation events.
(iii)
Convene and co-ordinate the Barts and The London Graduation Committee.
3.4.10 The Dental Society President shall: (i)
Be responsible for the affairs of the Dental Society according to the provisions of the constitution of the Dental Society.
4.
Joint Duties and Responsibilities
4.1
All Student Representatives and Part-time Officers shall: (i)
Represent the views of the Union’s members and seek the views and opinions of the membership.
(ii)
Be bound by the policies of the Union and decisions taken by Student Council.
(iii)
Promote the services and activities of the Union, uphold the Union’s good name and attend and assist at Union or participating events.
(iv)
Attend relevant training.
(v)
Work with Union staff to produce an action plan of aims and objectives.
(vi)
Be accountable to the membership through the Union’s democratic structures and be required to present a report on work carried out to each meeting of Student Council.
(vii)
Undertake additional responsibilities assigned by Student Council.
5.
Term of Office
5.1
Student Representatives and Part-time Officers shall hold office from 1 August in the year in which they are elected to 31 July in the following year.
5.2
No person may hold more than one position on the Committee at any one time.
6.
Dismissal/Resignation
6.1
A Student Representative or Part-time Officer shall cease to hold office: (i)
Upon written notice of resignation sent to the Student Council Chair.
(ii)
Upon the passing of a resolution by a simple majority of members of Student Council present and voting at a quorate meeting.
(iii)
Upon the passing of a resolution by a simple majority of members of Student Council present and voting at a quorate meeting in the event that the Student Representative or Part-time Officer has failed to attend either two consecutive or three in total
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meetings of the Student Council without providing proper cause to the Student Council Chair or Student Council Clerk. 5.2
If a Student Councillor resigns, is deemed to have resigned or if there is a vacant post then there will be an election held at the next meeting of Student Council administered by the Student Council Clerk.
7.
Definitions and Interpretation
7.1
In this Bye-Law, unless the context requires otherwise, the following terms shall have the following meanings: 7.1.1
“Barts and The London students”
Members studying a course in the Barts and The London Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.2
“clinical medical students”
Members studying a clinical part of a medicine-related course in the Barts and The London Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.3
”Dental students”
Members studying a dental-related course in the Barts and The London Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.4
“Humanities and Social Sciences students”
Members studying a course in the Humanities and Social sciences Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.5
“LGBT students”
Members who self-define as lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans on a self-determining basis, or who are questioning aspects of their sexual or gender identity.
7.1.6
“medical students”
Members studying a medicine-related course in the Barts and The London Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.7
“Mile End students”
Members studying a course in the Humanities and Social Science Faculty and the Science and Engineering Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.8
“multi-cultural students”
Members who self-define as of African, Asian or Caribbean descent.
7.1.9
“pre-clinical medical students”
Members studying a pre-clinical part of a medicine-related course in the Barts and The London Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.10 “Science and Engineering students”
Members studying a course in the Science and Engineering Faculty of Queen Mary, University of London.
7.1.11 “students with disabilities”
Members who self-define as having a disability or disabilities.
7.1.12 “women students”
Members who self-define as women. 42
9.0
Use of the Library Postgraduate Reading Room by Undergraduates during the Examination Period
Proposer: Seconder:
Raj S Dattani (Biomedicine Year 2) Faria Fahjiba (Biomedicine Year 2)
QMSU notes: 1. The Library has undergone extensive refurbishment, primarily of the Ground Floor. 2. Further to this a Library Research Postgraduate Reading Room has been constructed on the Second Floor in the South Reading Room. 3. That this new facility is of a high quality and provides 58 spaces for Research Postgraduates and Staff to work in. 4. That the facility requires Queen Mary, University of London Identity Card authorised access, which is only granted to authorised users. 5. That the former temporary Research Postgraduate Reading Room is now utilised as a Meeting Room. 6. That as a result of these changes the number of spaces within the Second Floor South Reading Room for Undergraduates to work has been reduced. 7. That the Library is frequently operating at full capacity during the Examination Period. QMSU believes: 1. That it is right and proper that such a facility exists for Research Postgraduates and Staff, and commends the creation of such a facility. 2. That during the Examination Period it would be prudent to make this facility available to Undergraduates, in light of the demand for study space during this period. QMSU resolves: 1. That the Union should campaign and liaise with Library Management in order to make this facility available to Undergraduates during the Examination Period. 2. That this campaign should be expedited with urgency so that this matter can be resolved by the forthcoming Examination Period.
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10.0
ATMs on Campus
Proposer: Seconder:
Chris Smith (Mile End Student Representatives) TBC
QMSU notes: 1. ATMs (Cashpoints) in the Union’s Commercial outlets are regularly out of order or a sign stating the machines are awaiting removal. 2. There is significant demand on alternative ATMs including the ATM operated by Barclays on Mile End Road and located in Budgens Supermarket on Mile End Road. 3. Many card purchases require a minimum spend so cash is important tender on campus QMSU believes: 1. All ATMs on campus should be topped up regularly so they are continuously functional. 2. No ATMs should be removed from campus without being replaced, as this will lead to added demand on alternative ATMs that already face significant demand. 3. ATMs on campus are in a safer environment than those in alternative locations. QMSU resolves: 1. To mandate the Executive Committee to investigate the future of ATMs on campus and report back to the next meeting of Student Council.
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11.0
Campaign for Q-Review
Proposer: Seconder:
Oliver Brown (Middle Years Representative) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education and Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. Hundreds of thousands of pounds has been spent on lecture capture equipment that isn’t being used There is a clear student mandate for lecture capture to be used (95% of students surveyed expressed a clear desire for the use of the system). 2. The opt in system for lecturers means many students are not benefiting because it is easier for lecturers to not participate than it is for them to use the system. QMSU believes: 1. There is a clear student mandate for lecture capture, and it should be an opt out rather than opt in system. QMSU resolves: 1. To fund the campaign for Q-Review and support students in their attempt to increase the number of lectures being recorded at Queen Mary (Attached is the paper put forward by the learning institute including results of the student survey) A full version of the paper will be made available at the meeting. If you require a copy email tom.sutton@qmsu.org.
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12.0
Dyslexia Testing to Remain Free to Students
Proposer: Seconder:
Shaun Ramanah (Mile End Students with Disabilities Officer) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. That until now dyslexia screening was funded by the college. 2. That now the Disability and Dyslexia Service (DDS) has decided only to cover the first £150 of the test, with the balance (£65 - £250 depending on the provider) paid by the students. 3. That this decision was made two months ago in response to budget pressure and will take effect in January. 4. That students diagnosed with dyslexia have access to specialist support, specialist equipment, software and extra time in exams, and their lecturers make reasonable adjustments in light of their condition. QMSU believes: 1. That this cost will exclude students from lower and middle income backgrounds from the support available to their more well-off peers. 2. That if dyslexic students go undiagnosed, they achieve lower marks on coursework and exams. QMSU resolves: 1. To investigate the financial situation surrounding this decision. 2. To continue to press the college to reverse this decision. 3. To report back on developments at the next Student Council Meeting.
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13.0
Researching the need for a Students with Disabilities Representative for Barts and the London
Proposer: Seconder:
Shaun Ramanah (Mile End Students with Disabilities Officer) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. The new student council structure will have a Students with Disabilities Rep for students studying within the two faculties at Queen Mary (QM) but there will be no equal representation for students studying at Barts and the London (BL). 2. Prior to the student council restructure being adopted; the issue was debated at BL’s committee board made up of Whitechapel campus officers. However none of these officers specifically represent the views of students with disabilities nor were the views of students with disabilities specifically taken into consideration. As a result it was felt that students with disabilities did not need their own representative. QMSU believes: 1. Students with disabilities at BL are considerably different to students with disabilities at QM because of differences in course structure and length, exams and assessments, social interaction and integration and other factors. 2. The Welfare officer and Campaigns officer at BL, who both have the remit of putting forward the views of students with disabilities and campaigning on their behalf, may not have as strong an understanding of issues that affect these students as a specific representative, and also need to focus on other issues within their wide remit. 3. Students with disabilities at BL have not been specifically approached to find out whether they would like a specific representative who will focus on their needs. QMSU resolves: 1. To undertake research to find out how students with disabilities at BL would prefer to be represented. 2. To report back on their findings to the Student Council and, depending on the findings, introduce a Students with Disabilities Rep at BL if needed.
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14.0
Accessibility for Students with Disabilities on Campus
Proposer: Seconder:
Shaun Ramanah (Mile End Students with Disabilities Officer) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. The university is a very attractive choice for students with disabilities, especially physical disabilities, because it is one of the highest ranking and is the only London university to have a self-enclosed campus. QMSU believes: 1. With numbers of students with disabilities studying at QMUL increasing (according to the Dyslexia and Disability Service) the university and union need to be more proactive in ensuring these students have full access to what the university has to offer. QMSU resolves: 1. To push forward the issue of physical accessibility on campus as well as virtual accessibility through online learning resources to the relevant departments to enable students with disabilities to have a more inclusive and integrated life whilst studying at QMUL.
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15.0
Action Plan for Students with Disabilities
Proposer: Seconder:
Shaun Ramanah (Mile End Students with Disabilities Officer) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. Students with disabilities often feel left out and may feel their enrolment at a university is a nuisance on their university as the university has to make special arrangements for them. QMSU believes: 2. As an organisation that champions equality and diversity, there is a need for an Action Plan that states what the union’s views on students with disabilities are and what they set out to do to support them which will greatly strengthen the welfare of these students. 3. There is also a need for the university as a whole also needs to have a document that consolidates what their views on students with disabilities are and what they will do to support them which will greatly strengthen the learning experience of these students. QMSU resolves: 1. To write an Action Plan outlying the Union’s commitment to equality and diversity in regards to students with disabilities and if approved, adopt it. 2. To mandate the university to do likewise. 3. To ensure that in the future, these documents will be accessible online to prospective students as well as current students so that they are aware of the support they will be given if they have a disability.
A full version of an example will be made available at the meeting. If you require a copy email tom.sutton@qmsu.org.
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