Student Council Wednesday 6 June 2012 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 20 March 2012 (pages 3-9) Student Council is asked to note the record of the last meeting.
4.0
Officer Reports (page 10) Student Council is asked to note the activities of the Union’s Student Representatives and Part-time Officers since the last meeting. 4.1
President Action Plan (pages 11-14) Student Council is asked to note the activities of the President.
4.2
Vice President Activities Action Plan (pages 15-19) Student Council is asked to note the activities of the Vice President Student Activities.
5.0
NUS Conference Report (pages 20-21) A report from Ross Speer (Viva Queen Mary) and Ozzy Amir (Viva Queen Mary) on NUS Conference held 24-26 April 2012.
6.0
Amendment to Societies Bye-Law (page 22) A motion to amendment the Societies Bye-Law
7.0
Membership Bye-Law (pages 23-25) A motion to create a new ‘Membership’ Bye-Law outlining the membership of the Union and different forms of membership.
8.0
Affiliations Bye-Law (pages 26-28) A motion to create a new ‘Affiliations’ Bye-Law outlining how the Union affiliates to external organisations.
9.0
The Executive Committee Bye-Law (pages 29-31) A motion to amend the ‘Executive Committee’ Bye-Law outlining the role and remit of the Sabbatical Trustee committee.
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10.0
RAG Bye-Law (pages 32-38) A motion to create a new ‘RAG’ Bye-Law outlining how the Union manages fundraising for external charities.
11.0
Referenda Bye-Law (pages 39-41) A motion to create a new ‘Referenda’ Bye-Law outlining the process for calling and managing referenda.
12.0
Student Media Bye-Law (pages 42-50) A motion to create a new ‘Student Media’ Bye-Law outlining the role and operation of student media.
13.0
Student Council Bye-Law (pages 51-58) A motion to create a new ‘Student Council’ Bye-Law for the management of Student Council Meetings.
14.0
Code of Conduct Bye-Law (pages 59-64) A motion to create a ‘Code of Conduct’ Bye-Law to
15.0
Complaints Procedure Bye-Law (pages 65-69) A motion to create a ‘Complaints Procedure’ Bye-Law to outline a process for complaints.
16.0
Barts and The London Students’ Association Bye-Law (pages 70-72) A motion to create a new ‘Barts and The London students’ Association’ Bye-Law outlining the role and operation of BLSA.
17.0
United Hospitals MedGroup (page 73) A motion proposing that the Union becomes a member of the United Hospitals MedGroup.
18.0
Wednesday Afternoons Free for Dental Students (page 74) A motion calling for action over teaching scheduled for Dental Students on Wednesday afternoons.
19.0
Commercial Services Working Group (page 75) A motion calling for the Commercial Services Working Group to meet over Summer 2012.
20.0
Time, date and place of next meeting A schedule of meetings and dates for 2012/13 shall be published to members in due course.
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Student Council Minutes Tuesday 20 March 2012 at 6.30pm in Francis Bancroft Room 1.02.6, Mile End. Chair apologies: Eleanor Hallam Mile End Officers present (8): Ben Richardson (Student Representative) - Chair Caz Parra (Secretary) Ciara Squires (Student Representative) Darcie Tyler-Henley (Volunteering Officer) Ellen Kiely (RAG Officer) Mile End Officers apologies (6): Chris Smith (Student Representative) Dominic Todd (Sports Officer) Edoardo Palombo (Welfare Officer)
Ozzy Amir (Campaigns Officer) Shaun Ramanah (Students with Disabilities Officer) Wilson Wong (Societies Officer)
Michael Gilbert (Postgraduate Officer) Tom Voice (Ethical and environmental Officer) Wanda Canton (Women’s Officer)
Barts and The London Officers present (9): Eva Pathmananthan (Dental President) Jeeves Wijesuriya (VP London) Jon Cramphorn (VP Barts) Mandi Pal (Secretary) Ramey Assaf (External Affairs Officer)
Richard Donovan (SSLC Rep) Rob Zabihi (Dental Represenative) Sam Chequer (Welfare Officer) Tim Foster (Clubs and Societies’ Officer)
Barts and the London Officer apologies (7): Adnan Aslam (Dental Representative) - part Amy Coulden (Entertainments Officer) Andrew Smith (Student Representative) Aran Ali (RAG Captain)
Michael Samy (Communications Officer) Hannah Downer (Treasurer) Salem Al-Sawaf (Entertainments Officer)
Faculty and Year Representatives present (3): Alex Schpektor (Humanties and Social Sciences Faculty Representative) Ollie Brown (Middle Years Representative)
Nicolas Meier (Year One and Foundation Representative)
Faculty and Year Representatives apologies (1): Andrew Williams (Medicine and Dentistry Faculty Representative) Executive Officers in attendance: Sophie Richardson (President) - part Dominic Bell (Vice President Activities)
George Ryan (Vice President Association) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
Union Staff in attendance: Kate Little (Course Rep Co-ordinator) Philip Gilks (Student Voice and Development Manager) Tom Sutton (Representation and Democracy Co-ordinator)
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0.0
Election of a Chair Ben Richardson was elected Chair.
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 28 February 2012 Noted and approved as an accurate record.
4.0
Officer Reports Noted.
11.1
President Action Plan Student Council received and accepted the March update of the President Action Plan.
11.2
Vice President Student Activities Action Plan Student Council received and accepted the March update of the Vice President Student Activities Action Plan. 11.3
5.0
Question Ozzy Amir asked why only the President and Vice President Student Activities had submitted action plans. - No answer was provided
Amendments to the Clubs Sport and Societies Bye-Laws Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for a motion that proposed amendments to the Club Sport and Societies Bye-Laws. He argued the motion formalised the role of the General Committee Meeting (GCM) in electing Barts and The London Sports and Society Representatives to the Club Sport Committee and Societies Committee. 5.1
Amendment Noted an amendment proposed by George Ryan and accepted by the proposer of the motion Jeeves Wijesuriya.
Dominic Bell spoke against the motion. He argued the motion proposed nothing new and restricted how representatives could be elected. Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for the motion. He argued the amendment clarified how the Barts and The London Sports and Society Representatives were elected. Dominic Bell spoke against the motion. He argued the motion was badly written and referred to bodies with the wrong names. 5.2
Clarification QMSU resolves 2. Should read: 13.4
Representatives from Queen Mary Clubs will be elected at a General Clubs Meeting by Queen Mary Clubs only. The Barts and the London representatives will be elected in a similar manner by Barts and The London Clubs.
to read 13.4
Representatives from Queen Mary Clubs will be elected at a General Clubs Meeting by Queen Mary Clubs only. The Barts and the London representatives will be elected in a similar manner by Barts and The London Clubs at a General Committee Meeting.
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Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for the motion. He argued the Union’s Executive Officers should listen more to the views of Barts and The London students who supported the role of the GCM in electing Barts and The London Sports and Society Representatives. Dominic Bell spoke against the motion. He argued he had listened to the views of Barts and The London students and supported them in drafting a previous amendment. He did not agree with making the process for electing Barts and The London Sports and Society Representatives more prescriptive. Jeeves Wijesuriya gave the summation for the motion. He argued the amendment to the ByeLaws defined a clear process for electing Barts and The London Sports and Society Representatives to the Club Sport Committee and Societies Committee. Student Council voted for the motion. - 10 members voted for - 5 members voted against - 3 member abstained 6.0
Action Plan for Students with Disabilities Ozzy Amir spoke for a motion that proposed that the Union and College develops and adopts an action plan to improve accessibility for students with disabilities. He argued the Union should do more to publicise and develop accessibility for students with disabilities. 6.1
Clarification George Ryan sought clarification of how the need for sports clubs and societies to be ‘non-discriminatory’ might impact on sports clubs and societies. - Ozzy Amir replied that the motion resolved that sports clubs and societies should take a note of the need to be accessible and non-discriminatory of students with disabilities.
Chair moved to a vote. Student Council voted for the motion. - 15 members voted for - 1 member voted against - 2 member abstained 7.0
Accessibility for Students with Disabilities on Campus Shaun Ramanah spoke for a motion that proposed to lobby the College to improve physical and virtual accessibility. He argued the motion would reinforce Union efforts to improve College accessibility for students with disabilities. 7.1
Clarification Ollie Brown sought clarification on whether the motion was necessary as the motion was clearly the role of the Students with Disabilities Officer. - Shaun Ramanah replied that the motion mandated the Students with Disabilities Officer to lobby the College to improve physical and virtual accessibility or the Union generally in their absence.
Chair moved to a vote. Student Council voted for the motion. - 17 members voted for - 0 members voted against - 1 member abstained 8.0
Opposition to Health and Social Care Bill Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for a motion that proposed Union opposition to the Government’s Health and Social Care Bill. He argued government’s proposed reforms, which was opposed
5
by patient groups and health workers unions, would damage the NHS and the Union should take a stance against the bill. Sam Creighton spoke against the motion. Although he broadly supported the motion, it would soon be out of date as the bill was already set to pass through Parliament. Ozzy Amir spoke for the motion. He argued the motion should be passed to show support against the bill however out of date. Sam Creighton spoke against the motion. He argued the proposers of motion should re-write the motion taking into account the current status of the reforms. Jeeves Wijesuriya gave the summation for the motion. He argued the Union should take a stance against the bill and pass the motion though it might be out of date. Student Council voted for the motion. - 8 members voted for - 7 members voted against - 3 members abstained 9.0
Student-Led Commercial Services Jeeves Wijesuriya spoke for a motion that proposed to create a Student Council working group to identify how the Union’s commercial services can be more student-led. He argued the working group the motion proposed would help develop ways for students to have more input into the operation of commercial services. 9.1
Clarification Sophie Richardson sought clarification on the evidence for the ‘frustration of some students with the ability to influence the way students’ union commercial services are run and staffed’. - Jeeves Wijesuriya replied that this was the feedback he had received from students.
Chair moved to a vote. Student Council voted against the motion. - 17 members voted for - 0 members voted against - 1 member abstained 10.0
Time, date and place of next meeting Thursday 10 May at 6.30pm venue to be confirmed.
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officer:
position:
Caz Parra
Secretary
Ciara Squires
Student Representative
Darcie Tyler-Henley
Volunteering Officer
Ellen Kiely
RAG Officer
Ozzy Amir
Campaigns Officer
Shaun Ramanah
Students with Disabilities Officer
Wilson Wong
Societies Officer
5.0 for
6.0 against
abstain
X
for
7.0 against abstain
for
8.0 against abstain
for
9.0 against
for
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
abstain
X
X
against abstain
X
X
X
7
5.0
6.0
officer:
position:
Eva Pathmananthan
Dental President
Jeeves Wijesuriya
Vice-President London No record
Jon Cramphorn
Vice-President Barts
X
Mandi Pal
Secretary
X
Ramey Assaf
External Affairs Officer
X
Richard Donovan
SSLC Representative
Rob Zabihi
for
against
X
abstain
for
7.0 against
abstain
for
8.0 against abstain
for
9.0 against abstain
for
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Dental Representative
X
X
X
Sam Chequer
Welfare Officer
X
Tim Foster
Clubs and Societies Officer
X
X X
X
against abstain
X X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
8
5.0
6.0
officer:
position:
Alex Schpektor
Humanities and Social Sciences Representative
Ollie Brown
Middles Years Representative
X
X
Nick Meier
Year One and Foundation Representative
X
X
for
against
abstain
for
X
X
7.0 against
abstain
for
8.0 against abstain
X
9.0 against abstain
X X
X
for
for
against abstain
X
X X
X X
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None were submitted.
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A. widening participation (wp) we will: A1
A2
A3
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- A project plan in place by the end of January 2011. - NUS have received the project plan. - Final plan in place for March 2012.
- An overview has been submitted to NUS. - Meetings have taken place with Volunteering and appropriate other stakeholders.
Identify and trained volunteers To have identified a specified amount of volunteers who can run the project in 2012/13.
- Volunteers identified by April 2012. - Volunteers briefed and trained by May 2012.
- A recruitment drive has been planned. - 2 to 3 volunteers need to be identified as project leaders.
Developed a relationship with a school To have identified appropriate schools and developed at least one relationship for the project to be run.
- At least one school identified. - Relationship developed with at least one school by June 2012.
- After a meeting between the Union and St. Pauls appears to be a more appropriate school. We are going to wait for the volunteers to be recruited before the school is decided.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- An event is run each semester. - At least one report goes to the Vice Principal Advisory group for Research. - At least 40 students attend each event.
- Fourth event had over 100 students in attendance and was the best to date; we collected some useful information which will go to the Vice Principal Advisory Group. - The next event is a pub quiz planned for 14 May.
Plan an NUS WP Champions project To have planned a project to carry out for the NUS WP Champions Project.
A
M
A
M
B. postgraduate students we will: B1
11
Postgraduate Events Hold at least one event every semester for Postgraduate Students to gather their views and opinions on education and welfare matters by May 2012.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
B. postgraduate students (continued) we will: B2
B3
Postgraduate policy To develop policy that’s purpose is to directly benefit postgraduate students.
Postgraduate section on the website To Union needs to ensure that information specific to students is available in accessible format online.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- At least two policies have been written and passed by student council. - A mechanism has been put in place to measure the impact of the policy over the coming months and years.
- I spoke on policy to improve the experience for postgraduate students at NUS National conference
- A plan for the development of the postgraduate section of the website is placed. - The postgraduate section is revamped and regularly updated.
- The postgraduate section is regularly updated with upcoming activities.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- The meetings take place once a month. - We are in the upper quartile of levels of satisfaction in comparison to Unions around the country.
- We have had a second meeting and a regular fortnightly meeting has now been set up that also looks at strategic theme 1.
- It has been created before end of July 2012. - It has been distributed to all departments in the college.
- Planning session is booked for June.
A
M
A
M
C. raising awareness we will: C1
C2
12
NSS Question 23 To chair a group in the SU to look at how we can maximise our result to NSS question 23.
Create a guide about the Union To improve the awareness of the role of the Union to academics, students and other bodies by creating a guide.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
C. raising awareness we will: C3
C4
Improving the awareness of the Sabbatical Trustee roles To actively publicise the role of the sabbatical trustees in the run up to the election and provide opportunity for all potential sabbatical candidates to meet with me to find out what the role is like.
Reports to Student Council It was identified through my PDR 360 (appraisal) that I need to make people more aware of what I am doing in my role as President
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- Five candidates stand for the position of President. - I have had a one to one about my role with all President Candidates.
- I have spoken to 5 students considering running for the position of President. - I have spoken to one potential candidate for the position of VP Welfare and one for VP Education. - At least 5 of the students I have spoken to for the Student Council positions are planning on standing.
- To have submitted a report to every Student Council from February 2012 on the work I have done since the last Council.
- The fourth and final report to be found below.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- My contribution has been deemed to be integral to the success to Unions 94. - Unions 94 meet at least once a semester. - QMSU receives regular update on appropriate topics for the benefit of our members.
- Elected as Chair of Unions94 and third meeting going ahead as planned. - On the agenda is the membership due to the changes to the Russell group. - The handover meeting is now planned to take place at Royal Holloway. - We may not be part of Unions 1994 in future due to the College joining the Russell Group. - I have also attended an Aldwych Group meeting.
A
M
A
M
D. in the higher education sector we will: D1
D2
13
Unions 94 To take an active role in developing Unions 94 as a network so that QMSU can benefit from the work taking place in our mission group.
Improving Quality Assurance in HE To take an active role in the QUALITY ASSURANCE AGENCY review that is taking place and ensure that it is working in the interest of QM students.
- I have consulted Queen Mary students about relevant topics. - The research is taken to the Quality Assurance Agency Sounding Board.
- I attended Student Sounding Board meetings on the 2 March. - I attended the Quality Matters meeting on the 29 March. - I am responding to numerous consultation documents at the moment including research degrees and student engagement.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
E. student charters we will: E1
E2
E3
To write a Student Charter To work with a team to develop the student charter. Consult students on the Charter To have appropriately consulted students and have the charter passed by Student Council. Implement the Charter To have a campaign planned for the implementation of the charter with an accompanying website.
we will have achieved this when:
what we have done so far:
- The first draft is completed by the end of Jan 2012. - Final Draft by April 2012.
- A first draft has gone to various university committees and is set to be adopted in September.
- Consultation to take place by March 2012. - Passed by April 2012.
- A consultation process is being planned including focus groups as a survey will not provide information we were looking for.
- Plan by July 2012. - Website by July 2012.
- No progress
A
M
additional information The following is additional information regarding the work I have been doing in my role: -
14
M
I have responded to a number of Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) consultations on various different parts of their code. I presented awards at the Sports Awards Dinner. I hosted a debate as part of a module for Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice. I attended Quality Matters 2 in Manchester, to which I ran one of the workshops on the new Student Academic Rights Charter. I attended NUS Services limited conference on behalf of the Union, I found out information on NUS Digital and various different commercial opportunities. NUS Digital is a potential new website that the Union could adopt to replace MSL. As a member of the Recruitment and Admission Task and Finish Group, we have been reviewing the Offer Access Agreement, which sets out the amount of money that goes into bursaries and retention activities amongst other things. I have sat on several disciplinary panels since the last meeting. I met with Rushanara Ali, our local MP, about Higher Education funding. She has agreed to write to appropriate Ministers asking them to discuss the HE Bill in Parliament and expressing her concerns of the impact of the reforms on people in her constituency. I attended the NUS National Conference, and took part in the 1994 group fringe as a panel member. I presented at the Science and Engineering Faculty Away Day on a session on the future of the student experience. This was well received. I actively tried to get students voting in the Mayoral Elections, including flyering and going around halls. We met with Emma Bull to discuss printing and computer facilities across the campuses. She is looking into the recommendations of the Student Experience Seminar. I have met with the new Director of Marketing and Comms for the University, part of the discussion was about how we celebrate Russell Group status and how the College better communicates with students.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
A. societies I will: A1
A2
A3
A4
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- A strategy has been passed by May 2012.
- Identified the three key themes. - The draft is on-going.
Regulations To have reviewed the societies regulations and split them from sport taking into account areas needed for development.
- New regulations are passed at the March 2012 Board of Trustees.
- Passed at Student Council and Board of
Representation A clearly defined representation structure is in place for societies and meetings take place.
- Meetings take place at least twice a term.
- All meetings have taken place.
- At least 4 different training sessions have been planned and run throughout the year. - At least 6 new ‘How To’ documents have been created and made available online. - 20 societies have development plans.
- Training already delivered; Induction, Finance
Societies Strategy To create a societies strategy that identifies a clear route for development over the next three years.
Supporting societies To work towards creating supported well developed societies through training, resources and development plans.
A
M
Trustees.
& Events, Web.
- The Handbook is complete, subsection need to be done for hoe to guides.
- At least 20 societies have draft development plans.
- How to guide on event management and external speakers, AGMs and elections.
- On-going work with room bookings. - Redrafted development plan.
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achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
B. mayoral elections I will: B1
B2
B3
Student Manifesto To take an active role in the development of a London wide student manifesto and lead on creating a QMSU specific manifesto through consulting the student body for the Mayoral Elections. Lobbying the candidates To lobby the candidates and ask for them to pledge there support to the London wide and the QMSU manifesto. Also to invite local candidates to campus for an event and encourage students to attend the ULU Question Time.
Getting students to vote To work with the local council to get a polling station on campus and maximise the student involvement rate in the election.
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- I attend the London meeting and a London Wide manifesto is completed by the end of November 2011. - A launch activity is planned and takes place to launch the Queen Mary Student Manifesto.
- Manifesto was written and launched on the 20
- All candidates have been contacted by the end of February 2012. - A response is received from at least half of all the candidates and at least one candidate pledges to support either/both of the manifestos. - Meetings are held with at least three local candidates. - 25 Queen Mary students attend the London Student Question Time.
- Chaired a Q&A session with Ken Livingstone. - Qmedia spoke to Brian Paddick and Ken
- The local council has been contacted before the end of November 2011 about getting a polling station on campus. - A campaign is plan and carried out promoting the election to students.
- A website was been launched. - A promotional campaign took place. - 329/1000 students voted on campus: in line
A
M
A
M
February.
- ULU Question Time event planned was replaced by a less successful week of Q&A.
- Commitment gained from 10 London Unions.
Livingstone in January.
- Met with the local Labour and Conservative candidates regarding the student manifesto. The labour candidate was elected and supported some of the key points of the manifesto.
with national turn out levels.
- Executive Officers and student staff spoke to 500 students in total regarding the election.
C. sport I will: C1
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Regulations To have reviewed the sports regulations and split them from societies taking into account areas needed for development.
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- New regulations are passed at the March 12 Board of Trustees.
- Passed at Student Council and Board of Trustees.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
C. sport (continued) I will: C2
C3
Representation A clearly defined representation structure is in place for sport and meetings take place. Focus sport A tiered structure for sport is developed with opportunities for widening participation.
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- Meetings take place at least twice a semester.
- All meetings haven taken place.
- A tiered structure of sport is developed - A policy is developed for a scholarship programme to widening participation in sport at elite levels.
- No progress on widening participation
A
M
A
M
structure planned in the Bye-Law.
- Development plans have been sent to sports clubs and expect results within a month.
- College considering to funding activities for students from lower income families..
D. flagship events I will: D1
Partner led events To develop a pilot project for students running events with the Union Events Manager.
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- A process is developed. - A pilot project is delivered in semester two.
- A process was developed and students could apply.
- First event was a success and now needs to be rolled out. D2
D3
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Colours and Honours To develop a process for deciding the awards and an event(s) to award students involved in sports, societies and volunteering.
- An award structure has been identified by January 2012. - Event are planned and take place.
- Taken place and was a success.he event is
Societies flagship event To work with societies to develop an event that showcases what they do.
- A business case is developed and a collaboration project is planned.
- International event was a great success.
being split.
Fantastic attendance from students, societies and performers.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
E. improving finance processes I will: E1
Going online To move to a system where forms including expenses, claims etc. can be submitted online.
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
- It is made available online to submit at least two finance forms.
- The plan has been written. - A PS PAR bid has been put in for £7,500 for
A
M
A
M
improving QMSU finances. E2
E3
Immediate access to their funds To work towards identifying a process where students can have immediate access to the funds in there account preventing them from having to use their own money.
- A meeting takes place with the finance department and the option is explored and outcomes followed up.
- Meeting has taken place and waiting for
Risk To reduce the risk involved in finance a risk register needs be created and a system which prompts staff and students when actions need to take place is introduced.
- A risk registered is created by July 12. - A prompt system is explored and actions take place by July 12.
- Financial risk is covered slightly in the Bye-
I will have achieved this when:
what I have done so far:
Create a plan To develop a plan for implementing a halls rep system at Queen Mary.
- Plan to be produced by Jan ‘12.
- A plan has been written and is being reviewed. - Resources identified
Get agreement To work with the College to get agreement to the plan and make appropriate amendments.
- To be agreed by Jan ‘12.
- Provisional commitment gained.
Identify resources Identify staff and officer support for the process and its development for 2012/13.
- Staff and Officer support identified by July 12’.
- Ongoing.
response on PS PAR bid before progress can be made..
Laws.
- Ongoing
F. halls reps I will: F1
F2
F3
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achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
additional information The following is additional information regarding the work I have been doing in my role: -
19
M
Chaired BUCS London Regional Meeting. Handover meetings with both Sports Officers and ME Societies Officer. Handover packs being written up. Sports strategy meetings ongoing – agreed coaching plan and facilities project meeting with Estates. Overseeing Economics Society, Surgical Society, and Pakistani Society election/AGM issues. Visited Havana University, Cuba, for the experience and for fun.
achievement level:
0 25 50 75
100
5.0
NUS Conference Report
We take democratic accountability seriously. This doesn’t just mean we hold others to account, it means that those who elected us have a right to know what we have been up to. Queen Mary students elected 2 of our 4 delegates to NUS Conference from the Viva Queen Mary group. We were elected on a manifesto of fighting fees and cuts to education, of anti-racism and anti-fascism, of working to defend the right to protest and standing up for the cause of Palestinians. Being 2 delegates of 800 we could never simply promise we could get the NUS to deliver on all of this, but we could promise to fight for it. It is our pleasure to report that we were very successful in this respect, passing policy that furthers the causes that you wanted to support nationally.
National Demonstration It was clear in the lead up to national conference that the motion calling for another national demonstration against the Tory attacks to the British education system would be the definitive vote at conference. Prospects for it passing were increased when all three candidates for the full-time position of Vice President Higher Education (the eventual victor Rachel Wenstone, our own SU President Sophie Richardson and the National Campaign Against Fees and Cuts candidate Michael Chessum) came out in support of it. The motion was eventually passed with a huge majority in favour despite opposition from some in the NUS leadership. This means that, just as in 2010, the NUS will organise a national demonstration in the autumn term. This is a hugely significant event for all those concerned about what is happening to the education system and has the potential to kick-start action on the scale of that in Winter 2010, action that directly led to the huge Trade Union led demonstration on March 26th. Activists must start building locally for this demonstration now. NUS co-ordination is important, but we should not rely on the NUS leadership to deliver action on the scale necessary. We must start spreading the word and organising networks of activists immediately to build for the biggest, broadest movement against the Tories. We welcome the national demonstration, but reject the idea that we can stop there. We must be prepared to follow it up with further action, preferably with NUS support but not conditional upon it.
UAF and Defend the Right to Protest We were also successful in getting the NUS to re-affiliate to Unite Against Fascism (UAF). As students in East London this should be considered of huge importance. The fascist group the English Defence League (EDL) organised a demonstration in Whitechapel last September. UAF organised a major counter-demonstration, attended by many Queen Mary students, that successfully kept the EDL out of Tower Hamlets and away from their primary target, the East London Mosque. They have since returned as a much smaller group after a demonstration in Barking. It is clear that this is not the last we will see of the EDL in our community, and UAF have organised tirelessly against them. Whilst the racist National Front in France received 18% of the vote in recent elections the BNP and EDL have suffered repeated defeats in Britain. Much of this is due to the excellent work of UAF. Students have been a bastion of anti-fascism in this country and it is with pride we can say our national union is now a part of UAF. A leftwards shift in the student body continued to be evident in the passing of motions to support the Defend the Right to Protest organisation in its work standing up for democratic rights and supporting students both on trial and already in jail. NUS already affiliated to this organisation last year, and the leadership has been generally supportive. A stronger motion than that proposed by the Society & Citizenship Zone Committee was also passed. It stated that “civil disobedience is not a crime”, rejecting any dichotomy between “good and bad protestors” and to call for universities to be places of political asylum. Police have played a thuggish role against students in the past couple of years, using violence and mass punishment to deter students from protesting. This is notable in the case of Alfie Meadows who was nearly killed by the police (they state he was “likely to die” in their logs from the event) but now faces charges of violent disorder. His first trial resulted in a hung jury with a second scheduled for October, for which he faces up to 5 years in jail. His assailants remain at large. VP
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Welfare candidate and ULU President-elect Sean Rillo Raczka aptly referred to the Metropolitan Police as his “local gang” to applause from much of conference floor. With another national demonstration approaching the police are likely to continue to play a foul and dangerous role towards students. The NUS’ call for political asylum in universities is very important for Queen Mary, which continues to be blighted by the presence of a small police station near the East Gate and the constant intimidating presence of the Met on its campus. Free Education We are proud to be from a Students’ Union that has continued to support free education despite the NUS’ policy of a graduate tax (fees in disguise). Although there was a motion to conference to restore a Free Education policy to the heart of the NUS there was not time to hear it and it was referred to the NEC where it is likely to fall. Viva Queen Mary will continue to campaign to ensure free education remains our own SU’s policy and will do all we can to give it a national hearing, including making it a central message of our approach to the national demonstration later this year. We believe that free education is affordable and realistic and that the NUS must adopt this policy and give it a national platform. The purpose of the NUS should be to fight for students and their interests and to put these on the national agenda, not bend to the will of a Labour Party that refuses to offer a real alternative to fees. Words like “access and widening participation” are often thrown around yet are meaningless as long as that very access as participation remains dependent upon shouldering the debt burden imposed on us by successive governments.
Election Results We are also pleased to announce that Vicki Baars (current NUS LGBT Officer), someone we not only voted for but also actively campaigned on behalf of, won the position for Vice President Union Development. In a year with a national demonstration ahead having Vicki, the lefts candidate for the VPUD position, as part of the NUS full-time team is of huge importance. Liam Burns, the re-elected NUS President, has done important work in some areas (he is no Aaron Porter) but we must be vigilant to ensure he actively delivers on a national demonstration following his failure to hold one last year, despite promising to do so in his manifesto. Vicki is an asset to the student movement and her victory is evidence of the deepening mood of resistance to the policies of the Tories amongst students. Finally, we offer our commiserations to our own SU President Sophie Richardson. Although we have not always seen eye-to-eye politically, Sophie has proven herself an ally in the fight of students and lecturers against Tory attacks, providing us with the resources necessary to mobilise students for protests and strikes as well as attending them herself. We voted Michael Chessum #1 in the VP HE race and Sophie received our 2nd preference votes, but unfortunately, she came second to Rachel Wenstone. Sophie has been an important advocate for Queen Mary students, supporting us locally, raising our profile nationally. Her contribution to the student movement should not be forgotten.
Ross Speer (Viva Queen Mary) and Ozzy Amir (Viva Queen Mary)
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6.0
Amendment to Societies Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
George Ryan (BLSA President) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
QMSU notes: 1. That on Thursday 26 April the BLSA General Council Meeting met and voted to remove the restriction on BLSA Clubs and Societies from being political or religious. QMSU believes: 1. That students studying in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry should be able to run political and religious societies. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to remove from the Societies Bye-Law '1.3
Barts and The London societies should be apolitical and non-religious'.
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7.0
Membership Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Sam Creighton (Vice President Communication) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU believes: 1. The entitlements of members should be clearly defined in the Bye-Laws. 2. The entitlements of a non-member should be clearly defined in the Bye-Laws. 3. The entitlements and classes of associate members should be clearly defined in the ByeLaws. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete the current ‘Bye-Law 1: Membership’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 1 Membership 1.
General There are two types of membership to the Union; Members and Associate Members. There are four classes of Associate Membership as defined in section 3.3.
2.
Members As provided for in the Articles of Association, the Members of the Union shall be as follows:
2.1
(i)
Each and every student at Queen Mary, University of London who has not opted out by notifying Queen Mary, University of London or the Union of his or her wish not to be a member of the Union; and
(ii)
The Officer Trustees of the Union.
Members of the Union shall be entitled to the benefits set out in the Code of Practice, as referred to in the Articles of Association, as well as being entitled to: (i)
Use of any services and facilities of the Union, and its subsidiary companies;
(ii)
Hold ordinary membership of any Union club or society and stand for election as a Principal Officer;
(iii)
Attend Student Council and other student committees of the Union as observers, except in such cases as are specified in the Bye-Laws or where confidential business is being discussed;
(iv)
Vote in, and stand for office in, the Union elections;
(v)
Attend, and vote in, the Annual Members Meetings and Company Law General Meetings of the Union; and
(vi)
Vote in a Union referendum.
2.2
All Members are subject to the Articles of Association, Bye-Laws and any policies of the Union.
3.
Associate Members The Board of Trustees and Student Council have the right to approve Associate Membership to the Union for individuals or groups from time to time. Certain classes of Associate membership may come with a fee, determined annually, by the Board of Trustees.
3.1
Associate Members shall not be members of the Union for purposes of the Articles of Association or the Companies Act.
3.2
Associate Members are entitled to: (i)
Use of any services and facilities of the Union and subsidiary companies with possible restrictions;
(ii)
Hold ordinary membership of any Union club or society; and
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(iii)
Attend Annual Members Meetings and Company Law General Meetings as observers.
3.3
Classes of Associate Membership
3.3.1
Individual Associate Membership Available by application, on an annual basis, to any persons employed by Queen Mary, University of London or involved in the Union.
3.3.2
Reciprocal Membership The Union may enter into reciprocal membership arrangements with other students’ unions or educational institutions, both within the United Kingdom and overseas.
3.3.3
Alumni Members Available by application, on an annual basis, to any person who has previously been a Member of the Union. The Board of Trustees can grant an Alumni membership for a specified period of time or for life.
3.3.3
Honorary Life Membership This shall be awarded to all past Officer Trustees and persons as proposed by the Board of Trustees. Honorary life membership can be revoked by the Board of Trustees at any point.
4.
Opting-out students All students have the right not to be a Member of the Union. Any student who exercises this right shall not be disadvantaged with regards to the provision of services and facilities provided by the Union.
4.1
A student wishing to opt-out must notify the Secretary to College Council of Queen Mary, University of London or the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Union in writing of their wish to do so.
4.2
A student who has opted-out may re-join as a Member by notifying the Secretary to College Council of Queen Mary, University of London or the Union President in writing of their wish to do so.
4.3
A student who has opted out is not entitled to:
4.4
(i)
Vote in, or stand for office in, the Union elections;
(ii)
Speak or vote at an Annual Members Meeting or Company Law General Meeting of the Union;
(iii)
Vote in a Union Referendum; and
(iii)
Hold an elected position in a club or society of the Union.
A student who has opted out has the same entitlements as an Associate Member.
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8.0
Affiliations Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Dominic Bell (Vice President Student Activities) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
QMSU notes: 1. That the Education Act covers certain responsibilities that the Union has to comply with in relation to affiliating to external organisations. QMSU believes: 1. That Student Council, Referendum, Company Law General Meetings and Annual Members Meetings should be able to affiliate the Union to external organisations. 2. Clubs and Societies should be able to affiliate to an external organisation through a vote of their members at one of their General Meetings. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete current ‘Bye-Law 7: Affiliation with other organisations’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the ByeLaws.
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Bye-Law 11 Affiliations to External Organisations
1.
Affiliating to external organisations The Union can affiliate to an external organisation through a two-thirds majority vote in either a: (i)
Company Law General Meeting;
(ii)
Annual Members Meeting;
(iii)
Student Council; or
(iv)
Referendum.
1.1
Members of the Union can request to affiliate to an organisation by submitting a motion to the appropriate meeting or following the regulations in the referendum bye-law.
2.
Clubs and Societies Affiliations Clubs, societies and other recognised student groups of the Union can affiliate to external organisations, including political and religious organisations.
2.1
Clubs, societies and other recognised student groups of the Union can affiliate to external organisations through a two-thirds majority at their Annual General Meeting.
3.
Board of Trustees Responsibilities The Board of Trustees may override any decision to affiliate to an external organisation, if the Trustees consider it (in their absolute discretions): (i)
Has or may have any financial implications for the Union;
(ii)
Is or may be in breach of, contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with charity or education law or any other legal requirements (including ultra vires);
(iii)
Contravenes the charitable aims and objects of the Union; or
(iv)
Will or may otherwise affect the discharge of any or all of the responsibilities referred to in Articles 40.2.
4.
Notice and review of affiliations
4.1
Notice of affiliations Notice of new affiliations shall be made available on the Union’s website stating the name of the organisation and details of any subscription or similar fee paid or proposed to be paid, and of any donation made or proposed to be made, to the organisation.
4.1.1
The Union shall make available annually to all members and the College Council a report containing a list of all external organisations to which the union is currently affiliated to together with details of subscriptions or similar fees paid and donations made during the past year.
4.2
Review of affiliations 27
The Union shall annually submit to its members for approval a list of all affiliations including societies, sports clubs and other recognised student groups to external bodies through either a:
4.3
(i)
Annual Members Meeting;
(ii)
Company Law General Meeting; or
(iii)
Referendum.
Members of the Union may call a referendum on the question of continued affiliation to any particular organisation in accordance with the referendum bye-law.
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9.0
The Executive Committee Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Dominic Bell (Vice President Student Activities) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU notes: 1. That they previously passed a motion recommending the Board of Trustees adopts Bye-Law 5 Executive Committee. 2. The previous Bye-Law 5 required minor amendments to ensure it is consistent with the Articles of Association. 3. The Executive Committee still requires a Bye-Law QMSU believes: 1. The Executive Committee should be responsible for ensuring policy is implementing. 2. The Executive Committee should be transparent. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete the current proposed ‘Bye-Law 5: Executive Committee’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 5 The Executive Committee 1.
Constitution In accordance with the Articles of Association of the Union, the Board of Trustees has established a Committee of the Board known as the Executive Committee.
2.
Membership The Chair of the Executive Committee shall be the President. The members shall include; (i)
the President of the Union;
(ii)
the Vice President Education;
(iii)
the Vice President Welfare; and
(iv)
the Vice President Barts and The London.
A quorum shall be three of the Executive Officer positions. The Executive Committee may include additional members have support as appropriate to meet its needs from time to time as determined by the Board of Trustees. 3.
Attendance at Meetings In normal circumstances only Executive Committee members shall attend meetings. Other Students’ Union or University staff may be invited by the Executive Committee to attend for those items where business relevant to their responsibilities is to be discussed.
4.
Frequency of Meetings Meetings shall normally be held once every week throughout the year. A period of no longer than two weeks shall pass between meetings.
5.
Authority The Executive Committee is authorised by the Board of Trustees to take decisions on issues in line with this bye-law. It is not authorised to make decisions on those issues which are properly the responsibility of the Board of Trustees, other Committees of the Board, the Student Council or other Committees of the Student Council as set out in their respective terms of reference. The Executive Committee has the authority to create sub committees, forums and working groups. Any such sub committees, forums and working groups shall meet in line with their respective terms of reference. The Executive Committee shall conduct its business in accordance with the Articles of Association of the Union and its Bye-Laws.
6.
Duties The duties of the Executive Committee shall include: (i)
To determine appropriate action to implement policy set by Student Council.
(ii)
To implement, review and update the Executive Action Plan.
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7.
(iii)
To identify student issues and determine a course of action to be taken in response to the issues identified.
(iv)
To consult with the Members of the Union.
(v)
To examine, review and act upon other matters relating to the student experience at the Queen Mary, University of London which is either not covered by the Welfare Zone Committee or the Education Zone Committee or requires the attention of the Executive Committee.
(vi)
To periodically monitor, review and lead on the implementation of the strategic plan.
(vii)
To elect a Deputy President from one of the Vice Presidents.
Reporting Procedures Notes recording deliberations, any resolutions passed and decisions of the Executive Committee will be reported to the Board of Trustees in accordance with the Union’s Articles of Associations and to relevant staff. The notes will also be submitted to the next Student Council.
8.
Secretary The Secretary to the Executive Committee will be the Vice President Education or, in their absence, one of the other Vice Presidents.
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10.0
RAG Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Dominic Bell (Vice President Student Activities) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
QMSU believes: 1. That RAG is a vital part of the Union and should be supported appropriately. 2. That by providing a Bye-Law for RAG ensures the RAG Officers are able to get support from students and have clear aims for RAG. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 17 Raise and Give 1.
Introduction and Definitions
1.1
There shall be two organisations for Raise and Give (RAG) known as ‘Queen Mary (QM) RAG’, for students based on the Mile End Campus, and ‘Barts and the London (BL) RAG’, for students in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
1.2
All Members and Associate members of the Union can be involved RAG.
1.3
Members involved in RAG activities are bound by the Union’s Articles of Association, bye-laws and policies.
1.4
The Union will provide support to RAG, through staff support and training.
1.5
Definitions
1.5.1
Raise and Give (RAG)
A student run charity fund raising organisation.
1.5.2
Societies Co-ordinator
The Societies Co-ordinator is a full-time staff member of the Union employed to support the work of Societies and Raise and Give (RAG).
1.5.3
RAG Officer (Mile End)
A member of Student Council representing students involved in RAG based at Mile End and responsible for overseeing and co-ordinating the work of QM
1.5.4
RAG Officer (Barts and The London)
A member of Student Council representing students involved in RAG based at Barts and The London Student Association and responsible for overseeing and co-ordinating the work of BL RAG.
1.5.5
Society Fundraisers
Principal Officers and/or Society members organising fundraising activities as part of a society.
1.5.6
RAG Member
A Member or Associate member involved in RAG.
2.
Aims
2.1
The aims of RAG are:
RAG.
3.
(i)
To involve students in charitable fundraising;
(ii)
To organise and support fundraising activities and events;
(iii)
To organise recruitment and retention events to raise the profile of RAG;
(iv)
To raise enough general funds to cover operating costs and to allow RAG to grow and develop; and
(v)
To be the official charitable fundraising bodies of the Union.
RAG Committees
33
There shall be two RAG Committees, called QM RAG Committee and BL RAG Committee which meet in line with the terms of reference in Appendix I. 3.1
The RAG Officers are responsible for the co-ordination and chairing of their respective committees.
3.2
Each committee shall also have a RAG Treasurer who should be a Member of the Union, appointed by the respective RAG Officer.
3.2.1
The RAG Treasurer is responsible for: (i)
Overseeing the RAG accounts;
(ii)
Ensuring that expenses are claimed properly; and
(iii)
Ensuring that charities receive the correct funds.
3.3
The RAG Committees, can contain further members as needed to ensure the running of RAG, as decided by the RAG Officer.
3.4
The RAG Officers are required to write a handover report at the end of the academic year reporting on activities of the RAG Committee. A copy of the report should be submitted to the Societies Co-ordinator.
3.5
The RAG Officers are responsible for ensuring that the RAG Committees are transparent and accountable for all fundraising activities.
4
Fundraising for a Charity The RAG Officer will: (i)
Seek permission from each charity they wish to fundraise for;
(ii)
Gain permission from the relevant charities to use their chosen fundraising methods and events to ensure the reputations of the charities are not damaged;
(iii) Ensure the charity name, registration number and logo is clearly displayed on all collection buckets and promotional material; and (iv) 4.1
5.
Ensure that the committee has selected the charities for which it is fundraising for.
The RAG Committee will: (i)
Be knowledgeable about the charity/causes they are fundraising for and will be transparent with the public when collecting money;
(ii)
Ensure RAG members use sealed collecting receptacles and wear visible ID badges when raising money;
(iii)
Ensure RAG members do not shake collection buckets to draw the attention of the public; and
(iv)
Ensure all relevant permits are gained from either the charity they are collecting for or directly from the Council before any fundraising begin, as detailed in 8.1.4
Finances RAG shall operate under the Union's financial regulations. When necessary, RAG will present its accounts to the Union or the College.
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5.1
Depositing Money All money fundraised by RAG must be paid into the Union as soon after receipt as possible, where it will be credited to the relevant RAG account.
5.1.1
Income deposited by cash or cheque will be receipted at the time of transaction and the receipt must be retained in the RAG Treasurer's records.
5.1.2
RAG members will indicate on the receipt which charity they would like to donate the money to. RAG Members should include the charity name, charity registration number and how the money should be accredited to the organisation (BACS or Cheque).
5.1.3
RAG Officers will be informed when a cheque or BACS transfer has been made to the allocated charity.
5.1.4
All money, excluding expenses, generated at an event or under a street collection permit in the name of a specific charity shall be paid solely to said charity.
5.1.5
All money during the year raises in the name of RAG for no specific charity will be distributed to charities decided by the RAG Committee.
5.1.6
The RAG Officer will agree with the Union a rollover of money to be kept in the RAG account for running costs. The amount held back shall be decided by the RAG Committee.
5.2
Claims for reimbursements and expenditure The RAG Treasurers are responsible for authorising all claims for reimbursement, except in their absence where the responsibility falls to the RAG Officer.
5.2.1
If the claim is from a RAG Treasurer, the RAG Officer is responsible for authorising the claim for reimbursement.
5.2.2
RAG Committee will agree a maximum % of gross income from an event to which can be used to pay for expenses before the event takes place.
5.2.3
The committee must be consulted on all major expenditures and shall receive realistic projections on costs and fundraising for all activities.
6.
Events The RAG Committee are encouraged to organise events to further their aims and engage their members.
6.1
Events will be classified either high or low risk. A high risk event would include some or all of the following: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi)
High costs. Large audience / participation. A contractual agreement (venues, insurance, licenses). Taking place in an external venue. Speculative income. Members of the public in attendance.
6.2
The RAG Officer must arrange a meeting with the Societies Co-ordinator before committing to a date, venue or any other expenditure relating to the event.
6.3
The RAG Officer must present a completed Event Budget and Risk Assessment to the Societies Co-ordinator at least six weeks in advance for a high risk event, and at least two weeks in advance for a low risk event. 35
6.4
Event budgets and risk assessment must be approved and signed off before a RAG Committee can start planning their event. The RAG Officer must liaise with the Union in regards to public liability insurance, licenses and risk assessments (see 8.1).
6.5
Tickets for any RAG event should be sold through the Union’s website and/or tills, where possible.
6.6
The RAG Officer or Treasurer must keep records for any other items the Committee decides not to sell through the Union's website or tills. At the end of sales the RAG Committee must also be able to present to the Union receipts of sales.
6.7
Room Bookings and External Speakers
6.7.1
For events in the Union facilities, RAG may be charged a minimal rate for hire of equipment, security, or staff.
6.7.2
RAG Officers wishing to book College rooms must follow the procedure set out by the College’s Teaching Bookings Department.
6.7.3
An external speaker refers to a person or organisation that is not part of the Union or the College who is invited to speak at any RAG event on or off campus.
6.7.4
RAG Officers must notify the Union of any events on or off campus that involve external speakers.
6.7.5
No event will be publicised by the Union until it has been cleared by the Union.
6.7.6
The Union reserves the right to cancel or prohibit any event if the procedures provided herein are not followed or if relevant health, safety, and security measures cannot be met.
6.7.7
When making a booking on campus the Union requires the RAG Committees to provide the following: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) (viii)
Organiser’s name and contact details. The name of the RAG Committee the booking is for. The expected number of attendees. Whether the event is open to members only, invitation only, all students of the College, all students of University of London, or the general public. External speaker’s affiliations (specifically where they are political or religious). Any knowledge of controversy attracted by the speaker or the topic in the past. If the event is expected to attract media interest, and if so why. Website details providing further information of the external speaker.
6.7.8
On receipt of the information in 6.7.8 the Union will perform a risk assessment and will make a recommendation to the College.
6.7.9
The RAG Committee organising the event has a duty to inform the Union of any new undisclosed risk that has come to attention in the lead up to the event after a risk assessment has been completed.
6.7.10 The Union will monitor closely approved events in their lead up. 7.
Promotion of RAG
7.1
Postering and Flyering Policy
7.1.1
Only designated notice boards are to be used for postering and permission must be sought from the relevant College / Union / Association department. Exterior walls or pillars, windows or doors are not to be used.
36
7.1.2
The following must be adhered to: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v)
All posters and flyers must clearly carry the name of the relevant RAG Committee and carry the Union logo. This logo must not be distorted or abridged in anyway. All posters must be stamped and flyers approved by the Societies Co-ordinator or the Vice President Barts and The London or the Union Reception Staff before they are displayed. All posters must be removed following an event that they are advertising. Members must clearly display student ID when giving out flyers. All posters in a foreign language must be accompanied by an English translation.
8.
Health and Safety
8.1
Risk Assessments, Insurance and Licenses
8.1.1
All full members of affiliated activity groups are covered by Public Liability Insurance under the Union's insurance policy.
8.1.2
RAG Officers will complete thorough risk assessments for all events which will be submitted to the Societies Co-ordinator in accordance with 6.3. Fundraising activities taking place offcampus require a risk assessment to ensure members are covered by the Union's Public Liability Insurance.
8.1.3
Hired costumes and equipment are not covered by the Union's Public Liability Insurance. RAG Officers wishing to hire such items will consult the Societies Co-ordinator to ensure the relevant insurance policy is taken out. 8.1.4
RAG Officers will purchase the relevant licences from the charity they are collecting for, or directly from the relevant County Council or the Metropolitan Police in order to run legal and safe events.
8.1.5
RAG will not take part in any illegal or unlawful activity, while fundraising.
8.1.6
RAG will apply for permits to fundraise in London Underground entrance halls.
8.2
Food Safety
8.2.1
RAG Officers wishing to prepare food for events must follow the Union's Food Hygiene guidelines. RAG members should consider the preparation of food, storage and specific dietary requirements of guests.
8.2.2
RAG Officers wishing to invite external catering companies will need to request copies of the following: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
Food Registration certificate. Staff Food Hygiene certificates. Public Liability Insurance. Risk Assessment for the event.
8.2.3
The Union's Marketing Team and College will need to agree for the company to be on campus.
8.3
Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults
8.3.1
RAG Members working unsupervised with children or vulnerable adults will complete a Criminal Record Bureau Check. RAG Members with an existing CRB Check will show this to the Societies Co-ordinator for review. Disclosure numbers will be recorded.
37
8.3.2
CRB checks revealing convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
9.
Ultra Vires
9.1
An Ultra Vires act is one that is outside the specified and /or implied constitutions objects and powers of the body in question.
9.2
RAG is the only activity of the Union that can fundraise for charity.
9.3
By law, affiliated clubs, societies and other activities of the Union, except RAG, cannot fundraise for anyone other than themselves or the Union. An affiliated club or society cannot aim to fundraise for charity.
9.4
Societies, clubs and other activities of the Union wishing to fundraise for charity contact the relevant Union RAG Officer.
9.5
Money fundraised by societies, clubs or other activities of the Union, will be paid into the RAG account and then donated to the selected charity.
10.
Complaints
10.1
To make a complaint, please see the Union Complaints Procedure.
11.
Recognition of RAG
11.1
The Union will award RAG and individuals annually for their achievements and commitment to RAG activities. Awards will be decided through a fair and transparent system.
should
38
11.0
Referenda Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communication)
QMSU believes: 1. The process for calling and managing a referendum should be clearly defined in the ByeLaws. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete the current ‘Bye-Law 8: Referenda’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 2 Referendums 1.
General A referendum is a ballot in which all Members of the Union are entitled to cast a vote.
2.
Calling a Referendum
2.1
A referendum may be called on any issue in accordance with the Articles of Association by: (i)
A resolution of the Trustees;
(ii)
A majority vote of the Student Council;
(iii)
A majority vote in a Company Law General Meeting or an Annual Members’ Meeting; or
(iv)
A Secure Petition signed by at least 250 Members.
2.2
A motion of no confidence in a Trustee can only be triggered by a Secure Petition of no confidence signed by at least 250 Members in accordance with the Articles of Association.
2.3
Any call for a referendum must include the question to be put to the Members. Any question put to referendum must require only a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ answer.
2.4
The Union will provide guidance which must be followed on how to conduct a Secure Petition for the purpose of calling a referendum. The Secure Petition must be presented to the Chair of the Board of Trustees.
2.5
The Board of Trustees, or its nominee, may make alterations to a proposed referendum question for the purpose of making the question: (i)
Balanced and not tending towards one response; or
(ii)
Comply with the requirements of the Articles of Association and Bye-Laws of the Union.
2.6
Policy set by referendum will overturn policy set by Student Council and in an Annual Members Meeting, but not that set in a Company Law General Meeting.
2.7
The Board of Trustees can override policy or decision made by referendum in accordance with 40.3 of the Articles of Association.
3.
Conduct of a Referendum The Returning Officer and/or Deputy Returning Officer, as appointed in accordance with the Elections Bye-Law, shall be charged with organising a referendum if called.
3.1
A referendum will be deemed called at the point when it is approved by the Trustees, Student Council, a Company Law General Meeting or an Annual Members Meeting or at the point the Chair of the Board of Trustees receives a secure petition signed by at least 250 Members.
3.2
The Returning Officer and/or Deputy Returning Officer shall be responsible for the good conduct and co-ordination of the administration of the Referendum.
3.3
All referendums shall take place online.
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3.4
Following the referendum being called the following timetable of activities must be followed:
3.4.1
The Returning Officer or Deputy Returning Officer shall set a date for the vote to take place, during term time, which shall be no sooner than 12 working days and no later than 25 working days after the Referendum is called.
3.4.2
The referendum question shall be published at least 10 working days before the vote begins, along with the argument for and against the question put to Referendum.
3.4.3
A period of voting shall be at least 48 hours and should be conducted in accordance with the general rules covering voting and the count in the Elections Bye-Law.
3.4.4
A resolution may only be passed by Referendum if at least 500 Members cast a vote in the Referendum and a majority of the votes cast are in favour of the resolution.
4.
Campaigning A campaign for the ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ argument of the question put to Referendum shall be consistent with the regulations outlined for campaigning in the Elections Bye-Law. The Returning Officer and/or Deputy Returning Officer are responsible for their interpretation.
4.1
The Union will provide equal resources to the ‘Yes’ and the ‘No’ campaign, which will be distributed fairly within each campaign.
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12.0
Student Media Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications) Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU believes: 1. That with no dedicated Executive Officer for student media it is vital that there is a document that outlines the support student media will receive, its obligations to the Union and the editorial process. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete the ‘Approval of the Media Regulations’ (passed on the 01/11/11) and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 13 Students’ Union Media Group 1.
Introduction, definitions and aims The Union is committed to running an editorially independent, student-led and accountable student media. Student media exists for the benefit of, and to provide a service, to the Members of the Union.
1.1
Definitions
1.1.1
Students’ Union Media Group
A group of Members responsible for the running of the Union’s student media.
1.1.2
SUMG
Students’ Union Media Group.
1.1.3
Executive Editor
The Member elected to oversee the SUMG.
1.1.5
SUMG member
A Member who has contributed to one of the media areas of the SUMG at least four times within the last 12 months. The Executive Editor, Managing Editors, Station Managers and Section Editors shall also be considered SUMG members.
1.1.4
SUMG Committee
A committee of the SUMG members which oversees the running of the Union’s student media, which meets in accordance with the terms of reference in appendix I.
1.1.6
Appropriate staff member
A member of Union staff responsible for supporting the SUMG, as decided by the Chief Executive Officer.
1.1.7
Section Editor
A student appointed to co-ordinate the work of a section of one of the outlets of SUMG,
1.1.8
Editorial Team
The Editorial Team comprises of the Executive Editor, Managing Editors, Station Managers and Section Editors
1.2
Aims The aim of the SUMG is to:
2.
(i)
Cover the news and activities of the Union, the University, area and other areas of interest to Union Members;
(ii)
Provide a forum for Union Members to comment on issues;
(iii)
Cover issues in the wider student community;
(iv)
Express the views and opinions of Union Members; and
(v)
Be a training ground for Union Members with an interest in journalism and the communication sector.
Outlets of the Students’ Union Media Group
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The SUMG is a collection of different media outlets supported and funded predominantly by the Union. All areas of the SUMG should always state that they are an official student media outlet of Queen Mary, University of London Students’ Union. 2.1
The SUMG will normally comprise of the following areas, unless the SUMG Committee decides otherwise: (i)
A magazine;
(ii)
A newspaper;
(iii)
A radio station;
(iv)
A TV station;
(v)
A website;
(vi)
Social media; and
(vii)
Any other type of student media adopted by the SUMG.
2.2
Each area of SUMG shall have either a Managing Editor or a Station Manager.
2.3
All areas of the SUMG shall hold regular meetings with their contributors to ensure the efficient running of their area.
2.4
The SUMG shall hold an Annual Meeting, where SUMG members hold one vote each, for the purpose of: (i)
Electing the Managing Editor or Station Manager for each area of the SUMG;
(ii)
Receiving a report from the Managing Editor or Station Manager on the outcomes of the year of each area of the SUMG.
2.4.1
The Annual Meeting shall be chaired by the Executive Editor-elect. If they are unable to attend then the responsibility of chairing the meeting shall fall to the current Executive Editor. The chair is unable to vote at the meeting.
2.4.2
The Annual Meeting shall require a quorum of 25% of all SUMG members.
3.
Editorial Positions The editorial positions include the: (i)
Executive Editor
(ii)
Managing Editor or Station Manager from each area of SUMG.
3.1
Election to an Editorial Position
3.1.1
The Executive Editor shall be elected in a cross campus election in accordance with the Elections Bye-Law.
3.1.2
All other editorial positions shall be elected at the SUMG Annual Meeting, where all SUMG members can vote.
3.2
The Executive Editor shall: (i)
Provide strategic direction for the media for their year in office;
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3.3
4.
(ii)
Have the final say in all editorial decisions, unless overridden by the Executive Committee due to it going against the Articles of Association of the Union, its ByeLaws or any applicable legislation;
(iii)
Take the student lead on getting feedback for media and running outreach programs;
(iv)
Work with an appropriate staff member to organise training and promote media on campus to increase the number of readers and contributors;
(v)
Chair SUMG Committee meetings and manage the managing editors; and
(vi)
Maintain an up to date list of SUMG members being used by the SUMG.
The Managing Editors and Station Managers shall: (i)
Provide an update on their area to every SUMG Committee meeting;
(ii)
Along with the Executive Editor, interview and choose candidates to fill the section editor positions;
(iii)
Hold meetings with section editors to decide on the content of each issue or broadcast of their area of media;
(iv)
Be responsible for ensuring their issues or broadcasts are completed to deadlines;
(v)
Ensure that all content is of a high standard and complies with the Articles of Association of the Union, its Bye-Laws and all applicable legislation;
(vi)
Along with the section editors ensure that detailed feedback is given to all contributors; and
(vii)
Support section editors/executive editor to advertise media on campus to increase the number of readers and contributors.
Students’ Union Media Group Finance SUMG, with support from the appropriate staff member, and in line with the Unions budgeting process, shall submit an annual budget request to the Board of Trustees.
4.1
SUMG shall spend their allocations according to the agreed budgets.
4.2
Budgets will be reviewed termly.
5.
Responsibilities of the Students’ Union Media Group The Executive Editor and Managing Editors/Station Managers shall ensure: (i)
That facts and news throughout publications and programmes are both factual and fair;
(ii)
That those involved in the student media comply with the standards outlined in the Press Complaints Commission ‘Editors Code’ and all relevant guidelines produced by relevant bodies;
(iii)
That all student media is compliant with all applicable law, the Union’s Articles of Association and its Bye-Laws; and
(iv)
That all submissions from Members shall be considered for publication and/or broadcast.
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5.1
Libel and Slander Checking It is the responsibility of the Executive Editor and Managing Editor/Station Manager to present to the appropriate staff member, within an agreed time frame, content to be libel/slander checked for print/broadcast. The appropriate staff member will respond within an agreed time frame.
5.1.1
Content cannot be printed or distributed without the approval of the appropriate staff member.
5.2
Union Promotion All reasonable requests from the Union for submissions to the areas of SUMG shall be granted.
5.3
Restrictions All SUMG publications and broadcasts must make clear that the views expressed in all content are those of the contributors and not necessarily the views of the Union.
5.3.1
The Trustees of the Union are the SUMG publishers and reserve the right to remove or stop publication or broadcast of any content that may be illegal, or may give rise to a claim against the Union, or contravenes its Articles of Association or its Bye-Laws.
5.3.2
Publications and broadcasts must not express a preference (either positive or negative) for any candidate for election within the Union.
5.3.3
All coverage of Elections and Referendums must be balanced, accurate and fair.
5.3.4
All coverage of Student Council, Annual Members Meetings, Company Law General Meetings and other meetings of the Union must be accurate, fair and representative
5.3.5
Publications must adhere to the Union’s Staff Student Protocol
6.
Rights of the Students’ Union Media Group The SUMG shall be editorially independent of the Union within the guidelines laid out in this Bye-Law.
6.1
Independence shall mean the ability of the SUMG to print and broadcast content, as their Executive Editor and Managing Editors/Station Managers see fit, subject to the responsibilities outlined in section 5 of this By-Law.
7.
Complaints In the first instance, complaints about content in an area of the SUMG should be made in writing to the Executive Editor.
7.1
The Executive Editor, with the appropriate staff member, shall investigate the complaint.
7.2
The Executive Editor shall then decide to do one or more of the following: (i)
Write a retraction.
(ii)
Apologise to the complainant.
(iii)
Provide an opportunity for the complainant to present an alternative view.
(iv)
Reject the complaint.
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7.3
If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision of the Executive Editor, the complainant should continue their complaint in accordance with the appropriate Bye-Law.
8.
Advertising The Union is responsible for supporting the sourcing of advertising for the SUMG to offset the cost to the Union of student media.
8.1
All advertising in student media must follow the guidelines provided by the Union.
9.
Copyright All publications and branding are the exclusive copyright of the Union.
9.1
The copyright of the content belongs to the creator.
10.
Compliance The Executive Editor, Managing Editors/Station Managers and Section Editors shall read and sign a copy of the Editorial Contract outlined in appendix II upon their nomination for a position.This contract must also be circulated to all SUMG members.
10.1
SUMG members not complying will not be able to contribute or otherwise be involved in SUMG.
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Bye-Law 13, Appendix I
The Students’ Union Media Group Committee Terms of Reference 1.
Constitution The Student Council has established a committee of the Union known as the Students’ Union Media Group Committee (SUMG).
2.
Membership The Chair of the Committee shall be the Executive Editor. The members shall be;
the SUMG members.
Quorum shall be at least 50% of the filled Editorial Positions (other SUMG members may vote but do not count towards quorum). The Committee may include additional members and support as appropriate to meet the needs of the Committee with the approval of the Chair. 3.
Attendance at Meetings All Union Members and an appropriate staff member as decided by the Chief Executive Officer are entitled to attend the Students’ Union Media Group Committee. Other Students’ Union or University staff may be invited by the Chair to attend for those items where business relevant to their responsibilities is to be discussed.
4.
Frequency of Meetings Meetings shall normally be held once every month during term time. A period of no longer than 6 weeks during term time shall pass between meetings. Additional meetings can be called by the Chair as long as one week’s notice is provided.
5.
Authority The Committee is authorised by the Union to take decisions on the issues described in its Terms of Reference. The Committee has the authority to create sub committees, forums and working groups. These committees shall meet in line with their respective terms of reference. The Committee shall conduct its business in accordance with the Union’s Articles of Association and Bye-Laws.
6.
Duties The duties of the Committee shall be: 6.1
To elect a secretary for the SUMG Committee at the first meeting of the academic year.
6.2
To create and review plans relating to the development of the Students’ Union Media Group.
6.3
To discuss issues of shared concern including finance, membership, inclusivity, standards, and value for money. 48
6.4
7.
To review how the content of each publication meets the principles of the Students’ Union Media Group.
Reporting Procedures Notes recording decisions and actions of the Student Media Committee will be circulated to all Committee members and put on the Union website.
8.
Clerking Arrangements The Clerk to the SUMG Committee will be the elected secretary, or in their absence a member of the committee.
49
Bye-Law 13, Appendix II
Students’ Union Media Group Editorial Contract 1.
As part of the SUMG editorial team, I understand that my job involves: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) (viii) (ix)
(x) (xi) 2.
As part of the SUMG editorial team, I can expect: (i) (ii)
3.
Recruiting and managing a team of contributors. Deciding, along with the Managing Editor/Station Manager, what goes into each edition of the publication/broadcast. Ensuring that the content for my section is completed and submitted to both a good quality and by the deadline. Designing and laying out my section, both in time and to a good enough quality to be ;published. Providing detailed feedback to all contributors. Raising awareness of the SUMG and helping with distribution of content. Holding regular meetings with contributors to my section. Attending the SUMG Committee. Holding the College, Students’ Union and all other organisations, their affiliates and subsidiaries, which have an influence on the life of students, to account, in a fair, balanced and evidence led way. Covering both Union and College news and events as they are of interest to the students I create the media for. Fulfilling the requirements as outlined in Students’ Union Media Group Bye-Law.
The Union to cooperate with me in research for my stories, where reasonable. The Union to provide, where possible, the resources I need to carry out my duties.
As part of the SUMG editorial team, I agree to: (i) (ii) (iii)
(iv) (v)
(vi) (vii)
Ensure that neither my actions nor the content of my section unduly harasses any group or individual. Ensure the content on my section is student focused and that the needs of the membership are at the heart of my work. Ensure that no staff member of the Union shall be named in any content without the express written consent of that staff member and that consent will only be applicable for the article or instance in question and is not transferrable to any other instance. Treat the equipment, facilities and staff of the Union with respect. Not use the influence I have as an editor to try and influence Union elections. I may have input as a student but shall not use the resources available to me due to my role as an editor to try and shape, direct or alter election proceedings. Take on the responsibility of representing the group. That if I fail to meet these criteria it shall trigger a vote of censure at the next SUMG Committee meeting.
Name: Position within SUMG: Signed: Date:
50
13.0
Student Council Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Sam Creighton (Vice President Communication) Dominic Bell (Vice President Student Activities)
QMSU believes: 1. The process for creating Union Policy and Student Council should clearly be defined in the Bye-Laws. QMSU resolves: 1. To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete the current proposed ‘Bye-Law 9: Student Council’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 7 Student Council 1.
Constitution
1.1
There shall be a Student Council as defined in the Articles of Association.
2.
Membership
2.1
Members
2.1.1
The members of Student Council shall be: (i)
All Student Representatives and Part-time Officers referred to in the Student Representatives and Part-time Officers Bye-Law.
(ii)
The Student Council Chair.
2.2
Chair
2.2.1
The Chair shall be the Student Council Chair referred to in the Student Representatives and Part-time Officers Bye-Law.
2.2.2
An election for Student Council Deputy Chair shall be held as the first item of business at the first meeting of the academic year.
2.2.3
The Student Council Deputy Chair shall undertake the duties and responsibilities assigned to the Student Council Chair in the Bye-Laws in the absence of the Student Council Chair.
2.2.4
In the absence of the Student Council Chair and the Student Council Deputy Chair, Student Council members may appoint one of their number to be the Chair of that meeting and undertake the duties and responsibilities assigned to the Student Council Chair in the ByeLaws.
2.2.5
The Chair shall be impartial.
2.2.6
Subject only to a challenge, as referred in the Bye-Law, the Chair’s ruling shall be final.
2.2.7
The Chair shall ensure that the meeting is in order and that remarks are relevant to the item of business.
2.2.8
If any member causes a disturbance or acts in contravention of the Bye-Laws the Chair may record the offender’s name in the minutes. If that member persists they shall be expelled from that meeting.
2.3
Quorum
2.3.1
The quorum shall be fifty-per cent of Student Council members.
2.3.2
Remote attendance of Student Council members via conferencing arrangements shall count towards quorum when made available.
2.3.3
For a meeting to start there must be quorum within fifteen minutes of the time stated on the agenda.
2.3.4
If a meeting loses quorum and quorum and is not present within ten minutes the Chair shall close the meeting.
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3.
Attendance at Meetings
3.1
Any member may attend and speak on agenda items.
3.2
Any Trustee may attend and speak on agenda items.
3.3
The Student Council Clerk and persons nominated by the Chief Executive to support Student Council meetings shall attend.
3.4
Students’ Union or University staff may be invited by the Chair to attend for those items where business relevant to their responsibilities is to be discussed.
4.
Frequency of Meetings
4.1
The Student Council Chair and Student Council Clerk shall present a schedule of meetings and dates at the first meeting of the academic year and published to all members.
4.2
Additional meetings shall be convened on the written request of: (i)
The Board of Trustees
(ii)
The Executive Committee
(iii)
One-half of Student Council members plus one.
5.
Authority
5.1
Student Council shall conduct its business in accordance with the Articles of Association and the Bye-Laws.
5.2
Student Council shall have the authority to create Sub Committees, Forums and Working Groups. These Committees shall meet in line with their respective terms of reference.
6.
Duties
6.1
In accordance with the Articles of Association and the Bye-Laws the duties of Student Council shall be to:
6.2
(i)
Request the Trustees call a Company Law General Meeting.
(ii)
Ratify the appointment of External Trustees on the recommendation of the Appointments Committee.
(iii)
Represent the views of students within the University, locally and nationally.
(iv)
Set the policy of the Union, and refer Policy to Referendum or to the Members in a Company Law General Meeting or at an Annual Members’ Meeting, as they deem appropriate.
(v)
Receive a quarterly report from the Trustees.
(vi) (vii)
Appoint associate members. Require reports from Executive Officers, Student Representatives and Part-time Officers on any matter except staffing and confidential issues.
In addition to the above, Student Council may also: (vii)
Commend or censure, or no-confidence Trustees, Student Representatives and Parttime Officers.
53
(viii)
Jointly with the trustees make, repeal and amend the Bye-Laws.
(ix)
Appoint Associate Members.
(x)
Mandate Executive Officers, Student Representatives and Part-time Officers on any matter except staffing and confidential issues.
7.
Reporting Procedures
7.1
Minutes of Student Council Meetings will be circulated to all Student Council members and published to all members.
7.2
Policies passed in Student Council Meetings will be published to all members.
7.3
Minutes of Student Council meetings will require the approval of a simple majority of Student Council members to be carried and passed as an accurate record.
8.
Clerking Arrangements
8.1
The Chief Executive shall appoint the Student Council Clerk.
8.2
The Student Council Clerk shall provide administrative support to Student Council and shall keep minutes of proceedings to include names of all persons present at each such meeting.
8.3
The Student Council Clerk shall be responsible for the reporting procedures for Student Council.
8.4
The Student Council Clerk shall undertake all duties and responsibilities assigned to them in the Bye-Laws.
9.0
Agenda
9.1
The order of business for Student Council shall be: (i)
Membership and apologies
(ii)
Chair’s announcements
(iii)
Elections and related business
Section A: Reports (iv)
Approval of minutes from the last meeting
(v)
Minutes from committees
(vi)
Reports from the Trustees
(vii)
Reports from and questions to the Executive Committee
(viii)
Reports from and questions to Student Representatives and Part-time Officers
(ix)
Appointments of Trustees and Associate Members
Section B: Motions and Amendments (x)
Amendments to the Bye-Laws
54
(xi)
Motions and amendments proposed by Zone Committees, Sub-Committees and Campaign Groups.
(xii)
Other Motions and amendments
(xiii)
Policy lapse
9.2
Agenda items must be submitted to the Student Council Clerk at least five working days before the meeting.
9.3
Amendments to motions and additional papers must be submitted to the Student Council Clerk at least three working days before the meeting.
9.4
Any member may submit agenda items, amendments and additional papers.
9.5
The Agenda and papers will be prepared by the Student Council Clerk, circulated to all Student Council members and published to all members.
9.6
Agenda items that could not have been put on the agenda at least five working days before the meeting may be added to the agenda at the Chair’s discretion,
10
Motions and Amendments
10.1
Motions
10.1.1 Motions shall have a proposer and a seconder. 10.1.2 Any member may propose or second a motion. 10.1.3 Motions shall be debated and require the approval of a simple-majority of Student Council members to be carried and passed as policy. 10.2
Amendments
10.2.1 Any member may propose an amendment. 10.2.2 If an amendment is accepted by the proposer of the motion it shall be included in the motion. 10.2.3 If an amendment is not accepted by the proposer of the motion it shall be debated and require the approval of a simple-majority of Student Council members to be carried and included in the motion. 10.2.4 If an amendment not accepted by the proposer of the motion is passed, the Chair shall make the proposer of the amendment the new proposer of the motion. 10.3
Amendments to the Bye-Laws
10.3.1 Any member may propose an amendment to the Bye-Laws. 10.3.2 Amendments to the Bye-Laws must be drafted with the support of an appropriate member of Students’ Union staff nominated by the Chief Executive. 10.3.1 Amendments to the Bye-Laws shall be debated and require the approval of a simple majority of Student Council members to be carried. 10.4
General
10.4.1 Motions of no-confidence shall be tabled in the same way as any other motion but shall require the support of at least four Student Council members. 55
10.4.2 A motion or amendment may be withdrawn by the proposer, but shall be open to the seconder or other member to propose, provided that it is done immediately after such withdrawal. 10.4.3 The Chair shall rule a motion or amendment out of order if it: (i)
Is in contravention of the Articles of Association and the Bye-Laws.
(ii)
Is not within the duties of Student Council.
(iii)
Is factually inaccurate, submitted without appropriate evidence or out of date.
(iv)
Has already been submitted that academic year and there has been no significant change in circumstances.
(v)
Seeks to commit the Trustees, the Student Representatives and Part-time Officers, the Directors of the subsidiary companies or the Union’s resources to an illegal or unlawful act.
(vi)
Seeks to amend the Bye-Laws unless it is properly submitted as such according to section 10.3 of the Student Council Bye-Law.
11.
Standing Orders
11.1
Debate
11.1.1 The order of speeches for debate shall be: (i)
A three minute speech for the proposal
(ii)
A three minute speech against the proposal
(iii)
An equal number of two minute speeches for and against the proposal
(iv)
A two minute summation for the proposal
11.2.2 Amendments shall be debated following the first speech for the motion it seeks to amend. After all amendments have been debated, debate on the motion shall resume with the first speech against the motion as amended. 11.1.3 At the chairs discretion, no item shall be discussed for more than thirty minutes. After thirty minutes there shall a summation followed immediately by a vote. 11.2
Points of Order
11.2.1 Outside of speeches and voting any member may raise a point of order by calling “point of order”. The Chair shall immediately hear the point of order and rule on it. 11.2.2 Points of order, in order of precedence, shall be:
11.3
(i)
A call of quorum
(ii)
Challenge to the Chair’s ruling
(iii)
Clarification
(iv)
Procedural motions
Challenge to the Chair’s Ruling
56
11.3.1 A challenge to the Chair’s ruling shall only be raised on the grounds that it contravenes the Articles of Association, the Bye Laws or policy. 11.3.2 While a challenge is made the Chair shall relinquish the role of Chair. The proposer of the challenge and the Chair shall have up to one minute to state their case. A challenge shall require the approval of a simple-majority of Student Council members to be carried and overturn the Chair’s ruling. 11.4
Clarification
11.4.1 Clarifications may be requested by members from speakers, but shall be taken at the Chair’s discretion. 11.4.2 Clarifications shall only relate to matters raised by the speaker. 11.4.3 Requests for clarifications shall not express opinion on a proposal. 11.5
Procedural Motions
11.5.1 Procedural motions, in order of precedence, shall be: (i)
Move to a vote
(ii)
A vote is taken in parts
(iii)
A vote is referred to a General Meeting
(iv)
A vote is referred to referendum
(v)
A vote be adjourned to a later meeting
(vi)
A vote be referred to a sub-committee, forum or working group
(vii)
A vote is not taken
(viii)
The meeting is adjourned temporarily
(ix)
The meeting is adjourned
11.5.2 When a procedural motion is called the proposer of the procedural motion and an opposer shall have up to one minute to state their case. Further rounds of speeches may be granted. A procedural motion shall require the approval of a simple-majority of Student Council members to be carried. 12.
Voting
12.1
Each member shall have one vote.
12.2
Student Council members shall exercise the right to vote in person or via conferencing arrangements, when made available, only.
12.3
If there are an equal number of votes both for and against the Chair shall exercise the casting vote. The Chair shall not otherwise vote even if they have temporarily stepped out of the Chair.
12.4
‘Simple majority’ shall mean at least half the votes cast plus one, excluding abstentions.
12.5
‘Two-thirds majority’ shall mean at least two-thirds of votes cast, excluding abstentions.
13
Policy Lapse 57
13.1
Policy passed more than two academic years earlier shall be presented to Student Council with a recommendation from the Executive Committee to retain or lapse.
13.2
Recommendations shall require the approval of a simple-majority of Student Council members to be carried.
13.3
A member may, at any time, bring policy that is considered to be out of date to the attention of Student Council and debated.
58
14.0
Code of Conduct Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications) Dominic Bell (Vice President Education & Welfare)
QMSU believes: 1.
That the Union should provide clear and fair procedures that are accessible to students.
QMSU resolves: 1.
To recommend to the Board of Trustees to adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure Definitions
1.
For the purposes of this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure: 1.1
Executive Officers
Are Members, not staff members.
1.2
A Member
This includes any student who has opted out of membership of the Union, in relation to any they are, or have been, on the Union’s otherwise using or participating in the activities, or those of it clubs and
matter where premises, or Union’s services or societies.
Purposes of this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure
2.
The purposes of this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure are:(i)
(ii)
To enable the Union to carry out its functions and activities with proper regard for its responsibilities to all Members, staff and all others having dealings with the Union or who may be affected by its activities, and to protect the Union’s reputation; and To ensure consistency, transparency and fairness in the management of Member conduct.
3.
Relationship to other Procedures
3.1
The Queen Mary, University of London Code of Student Discipline applies to matters relating to the functions and activities of Queen Mary, University of London. In cases of serious misconduct, of whatever nature, the Union may refer the matter for consideration under such Code.
3.2
This Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure does not apply to any matter falling within the remit of the Union’s Bye-law on Elections.
3.3
This Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure does not apply to matters relating to the performance of elected Executive Officers, Student Representatives or Part-time Officers in relation to their duties and responsibilities as provided for in the Union’s Bye laws, or to the performance of Officer Trustees, Student Trustees or External Trustees in relation to their duties and responsibilities as provided for in the Union’s Bye laws and/or in the Union’s Articles or Association. All such performance will be considered under the relevant Bye-law and/or as provided for in the Union’s Articles of Association.
3.4
Complaints made under the Union’s Complaints Procedure may be referred for consideration under this Code of Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure.
3.5
Misconduct by Executive Officers may fall within the remit of the Union’s employment disciplinary procedures and may be dealt with accordingly.
3.6
Nothing in this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure shall prevent or preclude any action:(i)
Being taken, by a licensee or representative of a licensee of licensed premises operated by the Union, for the maintenance of good order on such premieses; or
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(ii)
Being taken by or on behalf of the Union under operating procedures of the Union for safeguarding the health, safety or welfare of any person, for the avoidance damage to property or for the avoidance of any infringement of the law. For the avoidance of doubt, any such action so taken will not prevent or preclude other or further action being taken under this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure.
4.
Misconduct and Gross Misconduct
4.1
Misconduct is action or behaviour which improperly disrupts or interferes with the functioning and activities of the Union or adversely affects it reputation. Misconduct will usually result in disciplinary action being taken against the Member concerned. Gross misconduct is misconduct of a serious nature and may lead to the summary termination of all membership entitlements.
4.2
Examples of gross misconduct include (but are not limited to):(i) (ii) (iii)
(iv) 4.3
Examples of misconduct include (but are not limited to):(i) (ii)
(iii)
(iv) (v) (vi) (vii)
(viii) (ix) (x) 5.
fraud, deceit, deception or dishonesty in relation to the Union, its staff or in connection with any holding of office in the Union; theft of, damage to, or defacement of property of the Union or staff members caused intentionally or recklessly; violent, indecent, disorderly or intimidating behaviour whilst on Union premises or using or participating in any in any Union services or activities, at whomever directed; or serious incidents of misconduct as referred to below.
disruption of or improper interference with any activity of the Union, whether on Union premises or elsewhere; obstruction of or improper interference with the carrying out, by any Member, staff member, or any visitor to the Union or to any of its services or activities, of their duties or functions; offensive behaviour or language (whether oral or in writing) whilst on Union premises or using or participating in any in any Union services or activities, at whomever directed; any action endangering or likely to endanger health and safety; any action or activity which fails to respect the lawful rights of others to freedom of belief or freedom of speech; vexatious or malicious complaints and unsupported allegations against Members or staff members; misuse or unauthorised use of Union property or premises, including computer misuse or attempted misuse including downloading and/or publishing material encouraging extreme behaviour towards people and/or property; any breach of any bye law, rule, regulation, code, policy or procedure of the Union; behaviour which damages or is likely to damage the reputation of the Union; or a failure to comply with the requirements of any previous disciplinary action imposed.
Consideration by a Disciplinary Panel Where a complaint under the Union’s Complaints Procedure is referred for consideration under this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure, or where an alleged or apparent act of misconduct is otherwise brought or comes to the attention of the Union, a Disciplinary Panel will be established as soon as practicable to consider the matter.
6.
Constitution of a Disciplinary Panel
6.1
A Disciplinary Panel will comprise:-
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(i) (ii) (iii)
One External Trustee, who shall be the Chair of the Panel; One Officer Trustee or Student Trustee; and One member of Student Council, nominated by the Chair of Student Council.
6.2
No individual who has any close connection with the Member concerned or who has had any significant prior involvement in the matter will be included in the Panel.
7.
Investigation
7.1
If, given the nature or circumstances of the case, the Disciplinary Panel considers it necessary to suspend all or any part of membership entitlements of the Member concerned for any period pending resolution of the matter, such period will be as brief as possible and will be kept under review, and such suspension will not be considered a disciplinary action.
7.2
The Panel will as soon as practicable investigate the matter in such manner as it considers appropriate and may appoint an investigator to carry out the investigation on its behalf. Such investigation may include a meeting with the member concerned and/or the collation of evidence.
8.
Disciplinary Hearing
8.1
Having investigated the matter, the Disciplinary Panel will decide whether there is a case to answer and, if so, will:(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
as soon as practicable fix a time and venue for a Disciplinary Hearing and notify the Member concerned in writing; give such Member sufficient written information about the alleged misconduct and its possible consequences to enable such Member to prepare for the Hearing; supply to such Member copies of any documents which will be taken into account at the hearing; and inform the Member concerned that they are entitled to be accompanied at the hearing by a fellow Member of their choice.
8.2
If the Member concerned, without good cause, does not attend the Hearing, the Panel will be entitled to decide the matter in the Member’s absence on the evidence available.
8.3
At the Hearing, the Member concerned will have the opportunity to state their case. In so doing, with their consent, their fellow Member companion will be able to speak, but not answer questions, on their behalf.
8.4
As soon as practicable after the Hearing, the Panel will consider whether or not, on the balance of probabilities there has been misconduct, and, if so, whether or not disciplinary action should be taken against the Member concerned, and will notify such Member accordingly in writing.
8.5
Should disciplinary action be taken, the member concerned will be notified of their right to appeal against the decision.
9.
Disciplinary Action
9.1
Where a finding of misconduct is made, disciplinary action may include:(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
an informal warning, which may include informal advice; a written warning, which will make clear the consequences of further misconduct and which be kept on file for disciplinary purposes for 6 months; suspension of, for any period, all or any part of membership entitlements a record of which will be kept on file for disciplinary purposes for 12 months; termination of all or any part of membership entitlements;
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Any such disciplinary action may include a requirement to compensate any person for damage to property. 9.2
In considering what disciplinary action, if any, to take against the Member concerned the Disciplinary Panel will take into account:(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
the seriousness of the misconduct; previous disciplinary record; conduct following the misconduct; and any other mitigating factors.
10.
Appeals against Disciplinary Action
10.1
A Member shall be entitled to appeal against disciplinary action taken against them. A request for an appeal must in writing and made within 10 working days of the notification of the relevant decision.
10.2
Such request should be addressed to the Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees, should set out the grounds of the appeal and include details, with relevant copy documents, of any new evidence which the Member concerned wishes to be considered in the appeal.
10.3
As soon as practicable after a request for an appeal, an Appeal Panel will be established to consider the appeal.
11.
Constitution of an Appeal Panel
11.1
An Appeal Panel will comprise:(i) (ii)
One External Trustee, who shall be the Chair of the Panel; and Two other Trustees.
11.2
No individual who has any close connection with the Member concerned or (wherever possible) who has had any significant prior involvement in the matter will be included in the Panel.
12.
Appeal Hearing
12.1
As soon as practicable the Appeal Panel will fix a time and venue for an Appeal Hearing, will notify the Member concerned in writing and will inform such Member that they are entitled to be accompanied at the Hearing by a fellow Member of their choice.
12.2
If the Member concerned, without good cause, does not attend the Appeal Hearing, the Panel will be entitled to dismiss the appeal.
12.3
At the Appeal Hearing the Member concerned will have the opportunity to state their case. In so doing, with their consent, their fellow Member companion will be able to speak, but not answer questions, on their behalf.
12.4
As soon as practicable after the Hearing, the Panel will consider whether or not, in all the circumstances, the Disciplinary Panel’s decision should upheld or set aside, or varied by the imposition of a lesser disciplinary action, and will notify such Member accordingly in writing. The Appeal Panel’s decision will be final for the purposes of all Union Procedures.
13.
General
13.1
All documents relating to matters dealt with under this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure will be processed in accordance with any applicable provisions of Data Protection legislation.
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13.2
If a specified individual with responsibilities under this Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure is unable to act at any time for any reason, a deputy appointed for this purpose will carry out their function.
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15.0
Complaints Procedure Bye-Law (page 31)
Proposer: Seconder:
Oscar Williamson (Vice President Education and Welfare) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
QMSU believes: 1. 2.
That students should be able to complain if they are not satisfied with the services or activities or the conduct or performance of people providing them. That the Union should provide clear and fair procedures that are accessible to students.
QMSU resolves: 1.
To recommend to the Board of Trustees to adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law Complaints Procedure 1.
Introduction and definitions We aim to ensure the member experience of the Union is positive, but we recognise there may be occasions when our services or activities or the conduct or performance of people providing them may not meet expectations. All members of the Union may complain, as provided for in this procedure, if they are dissatisfied with any aspect of their dealings with the Union.
1.1
Definitions For the purposes of this Complaints Procedure:
1.1.1
A Member any
2.
This includes all Members and any student who has opted out of membership of the Union, in relation to matter where they are, or have been, on the Union’s premises, or otherwise using or participating in the Union’s services or activities, or those of its clubs and societies.
Making complaints informally If a member has a complaint which they feel they can take up informally, without raising a formal complaint using this procedure, with a view to its being resolved quickly, they are encouraged to do so. For example, they are encouraged:(i)
(ii) (iii) (iii)
3.
to take up any complaint they may have in relation to the Union’s commercial services, initially with the relevant service manager and, if necessary, with the Union’s Chief Executive; to take up any complaint they may have in relation to other Union services, initially with the Executive Officer responsible for the service; to take up any complaint they may have in relation to Student Council, initially with the Chair of Student Council; and to take up any complaint they may have in relation to any of the Union’s Clubs and Societies, initially with an officer or the committee of the Club or Society concerned.
Raising complaints formally If, for any reason, a member feels unable to make a complaint informally as referred to above, or they are dissatisfied with progress or outcome of making a complaint informally, they may make a formal complaint.
4.
What this procedure does not cover This procedure does not apply to complaints about the University, its services or University personnel. If a member has such a complaint relating to the University, please refer to the University’s complaints procedures.
5.
The relationship between this procedure and other Union procedures The Union has a number of other procedures which may need to be followed in relation to a complaint, or which may be more appropriate for dealing with that complaint. In particular:-
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(i)
This procedure does not cover complaints about the conduct of elections of Union Officer Trustees, Student Trustees or Part Time Student Officers. If a member has a complaint about elections, it should be made in accordance with the Elections Byelaw.
(ii)
If a complaint relates to alleged misconduct of a Union Member, this will normally be considered under the Union’s Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedure. If a member has such a complaint, and they are not clear how to take it forward, they should seek the advice of the Union President.
(iii)
If a complaint relates to the performance of elected Executive Officers, Student Representatives or Part-time Officers in relation to their duties and responsibilities as provided for in the Union’s Bye laws, or to the performance of Officer Trustees, Student Trustees or External Trustees in relation to their duties and responsibilities as provided for in the Union’s Bye laws and/or in the Union’s Articles or Association, this will normally be considered under such Bye-laws and/or Articles. If a member has such a complaint, and they are not clear how to take it forward, they should seek the advice of the Chair of Student Council or, where the complaint relates to a Trustee, the Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees.
(iv)
If a complaint concerns a member of staff of the Union, this may need to be considered under the Union’s employment disciplinary procedures. If a member has such a complaint, and they are not clear how to take it forward, they should seek the advice of the Union President.
(v)
If a member feels unable to seek advice from an individual specified above, because their complaint relates to or concerns that individual, or for any other reason, they should seek advice from any other individual specified above.
6.
Examples of when this procedure should be used
6.1
Examples of complaints which may be dealt with through this procedure include complaints about:(i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii)
the commercial services of the Union (its health & fitness services, shops, bars and cafes); the conduct or performance of Union staff; any other services or activities of the Union; the activities or services of Union Clubs and Societies; the conduct or performance of those responsible for running Union Clubs and Societies being unfairly disadvantaged for opting out of membership of the Union; and if having requested advice as referred to above, such advice has not been provided
6.2
If a member is considering raising concerns or making a complaint concerning a member of staff, before doing so, they should refer to the Union’s Staff/Student Protocol.
7.
Making a formal Complaint
10.4
If a members wishes to raise a formal complaint they should do so by emailing the Union President, or, if the complaint relates to or concerns the President, by emailing the Union Deputy President. Please note, for the purposes of the following provisions, if a member’s complaint relates to or concerns the Union President, all references to “the President” should be read as references to “the Deputy President.”
7.2
Such e-mail should be headed Complaint and where possible should set out:(i) (ii)
the nature of the complaint; details of the circumstances in which it has arisen; 67
(iii) (iv)
details of any steps taken so far to have the complaint dealt with; and details of the steps the member considers should be taken to deal with the complaint.
7.2
The Member should also attach to their e-mail or otherwise clearly identify any documents they wish to be taken into account in the consideration of their complaint.
8.
Dealing with a formal Complaint
8.1
On receipt of a complaint, the President will respond to the Member within 10 working days setting out how complaint will be considered.
8.2
The President will consider requests for confidentiality in dealing with a complaint but an anonymous complaint or anonymous contributions cannot be considered.
8.3
The President may deal with the complaint as he/she considers appropriate in all the circumstances. In particular:(i) (ii) (iii)
the President may investigate the complaint himself/herself; or may refer the complaint for investigation to another individual or body and for report back; or may refer the matter to be dealt with under other Union procedures as referred to above.
8.4
In case of referral to be dealt with under any other Union procedure, it may not be possible deal with a complaint within a specific time but the member will be kept informed of the anticipated timescale.
8.5
In the course of any investigation of the complaint the President may, but need not, invite the member to a meeting with him/her and/or other specified individuals to discuss the member’s complaint.
9.
The Complaint Decision
9.1
If the matter has not been referred to be dealt with under any other Union procedure as referred to above, the President will take a decision in relation to the complaint and notify the member by email of such decision by no later than 20 working days of the complaint being received, or by such later reasonable time notified to the member.
9.2
If the member is dissatisfied with the President’s decision in relation to their complaint, they may apply for a review of the decision to a Review Panel in accordance with the procedure set out below.
9.3
If the matter has been referred to be dealt with under any other Union procedure as referred to above, the member will be notified of the final decision under that procedure, which will be treated as the outcome in relation to the member’s complaint, and the member will not be entitled to any review by the Review Panel in relation to it.
10.
Application for Review of a Complaint Decision by a Review Panel
10.1
This section does not apply to any decision taken under any other Union procedures as referred to above.
10.2
If a member is dissatisfied with the decision relating to their complaint, they may apply within 10 working days for a review of that decision by a Review Panel.
10.3
A request for a review should be sent by email to the Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees headed Request for Review of Complaint Decision and should set out:(i)
details of the original complaint;
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(ii) (iii)
details of the complaint decision; and details of why the member considers the decision should be reviewed.
10.4
The Member should also attach to their e-mail or otherwise clearly identify any documents they asked to be considered in relation to their complaint and any further documents they consider relevant to the review.
10.5
As soon as practicable after a request of the request, a Review Panel will be established comprising:(iii) (iv)
One External Trustee, who shall be the Chair of the Panel; and Two other Trustees.
10.6
No individual who has any close connection with the complaint or (wherever possible) who has had any significant prior involvement in the matter will be included in the Panel.
10.7
The Review Panel will meet within 10 working days of receipt of a request (or within such later reasonable period notified to the member) to consider the member’s request for a review. The Review Panel may, but need not, invite the member to attend a part of their meeting to discuss their request for a review.
10.8
In considering the request, the Review Panel will review all aspects of the complaint and the process by which it has been dealt with and may decide to uphold or vary the complaint decision on such terms as they consider appropriate.
10.9
The decision of the Review Panel will be notified to the member by the Deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees by e-mail within 5 working days of their meeting (or within such later reasonable period notified to the member). The Review Panel’s decision will be final for the purposes of all Union Procedures.
11.
Complaints file
11.1
A record of complaints made under this procedure, the process by which they are dealt with, and decisions made in relation to them, together with copies of all relevant documents, will be kept in a Complaints File maintained by a member of staff of the Union appointed for this purpose.
11.2
Such file will be accessed only by authorised individuals to the extent necessary for the proper carrying out of their functions, and any such access will be subject to the provisions of Data Protection legislation.
12.
General
12.1
If a specified individual with responsibilities under this Complaints Procedure is unable to act at any time for any reason, a deputy appointed for this purpose will carry out their function.
12.2
All documents relating to matters dealt with under this Complaints Procedure will be processed in accordance with any applicable provisions of Data Protection legislation
13.
Further consideration Members are reminded that if they are dissatisfied with their dealings with the Union, they may be entitled to apply to the College for the matter to be investigated and reported upon by an independent person appointed by the College as provided for in the Education Act 1994.
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16.0
Barts and The London Students’ Association Bye-Law
Proposer: Seconder:
George Ryan (BLSA President) Sam Creighton (Vice President Communications)
QMSU believes: 1. 2.
That BLSA should be able to make political statements on issues that affect BLSA members. BLSA should have clear aims for the benefit of BLSA members.
QMSU resolves: 1.
To recommend to the Board of Trustees to delete current ‘Bye-Law 10: Barts and The London Students’ Association’ and adopt the attached Bye-Law subject to any appropriate corrections and other minor amendments or adjustments which do not affect the meaning or effect of the Bye-Laws.
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Bye-Law 12 Barts and The London Students’ Association 1.
General The Barts and The London Students’ Association shall be a division of the Union.
1.1
BLSA shall not make statements on religious issues.
1.2
BLSA shall not make political statements about issues that do not affect its members in their lives as Medical Students or in their future careers as Medical Professionals, as deemed by the BLSA Board
1.3
Definitions
1.3.1
Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry (BL)
A faculty of the College to which the students study either medicine or dentistry.
1.3.2
Barts and The London Students’ Association (BLSA)
A division of the Union which is responsible for representing students and working with the Union to ensure appropriate services are provided for students in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
1.3.3
Vice President Barts and The London
An Executive Officer with duties and responsibilities as defined in the Executive Officer Bye-Law.
1.3.2
BLSA Member
A student studying in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry that has not opted out of BLSA or the Union or an Executive Officer of the Union.
2.
Aims of the Barts and The London Students’ Association The aims of BLSA shall be:
3.
(i)
To be the voice of students studying in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry to the College and other relevant organisations.
(ii)
To organise campaigns for the benefits of BLSA members.
(iii)
To provide activities and services for the benefits of students studying in the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Barts and The London Students’ Association Members Members of BLSA shall be entitled to:
4.
(i)
Hold Full Membership of a BLSA club or society.
(ii)
Vote in and stand for office in the Union elections for a BL position in accordance with the Elections Bye-Law.
General Committee Meeting
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BLSA shall hold a General Committee Meeting (GCM) at least once per a term, chaired by the Vice President Barts and The London. Additional meetings can be called by the Chair with at least one weeks’ notice. 4.1
All BLSA members can attend, speak and vote at a GCM.
4.2
BLSA clubs and societies should send a minimum of two members to every GCM.
4.3
The duties of the GCM are: (i)
To hold the BLSA Board and the Vice President Barts and The London to account for the work they have been carrying out to meet the aims of BLSA.
(ii)
To discuss issues affecting BLSA members and recommend policy to Student Council.
(iii)
To fulfil the responsibilities as listed in the Bye-Laws of the Union.
4.4
The Vice President Barts and The London is responsible for ensuring that the meeting is accurately recorded and the minutes are sent to the next meeting of the Student Council.
4.5
The quorum for a GCM shall be at least 50 BLSA members, including a minimum of two representatives from at least 50% of all the BLSA Clubs and Societies.
5.
Barts and The London Students’ Association Board There shall be a BLSA Board chaired by the Vice President Barts and The London.
5.1
The BLSA Board shall normally meet at least once a month during term time, additional meetings can be called by the chair with at least one weeks’ notice.
5.2
The members of the BLSA Board shall include:
5.3
(i)
All Members elected in accordance with the Student Representatives and Part-time Officers Bye-Law who are BLSA members.
(ii)
Other positions as the BLSA Board create to fulfil the duties of the BLSA Board.
The duties of the BLSA Board are: (i)
To discuss relevant issues effecting BLSA members and propose policy to Student Council.
(ii)
To receive a report from the Vice President Barts and The London about the work being carried out to meet the aims of BLSA.
(iii)
To organise campaigns and activities for the benefits of BLSA members.
5.4
The Vice President Barts and The London is responsible for ensuring that the meeting is accurately recorded and the minutes are sent to the next meeting of the Student Council.
5.5
The quorum for a BLSA Board meeting shall be at least 50% of the members of the BLSA Board.
5.6
BLSA members can attend all BLSA Board meetings as observers.
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17.0
United Hospitals MedGroup
Proposer: Seconder:
Jeeves Wijesuriya (VP London) Richard Donovan (SSLC Representative)
QMSU notes: 1. The work of United Hospitals MedGroup across all London medical schools. QMSU believes: 1. Communication between medical schools is important to support for students and improvements in representation. QMSU resolves: 1. To budget ÂŁ250 for annual membership for United Hospitals MedGroup.
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18.0
Wednesday Afternoons Free for Dental Students
Proposer: Seconder:
Robert Zabihi (Dental Representative) Adnan Aslam (Dental Representative) Mandi Pal (Treasurer)
QMSU notes: 1. Dental students are regularly scheduled lectures and clinics on Wednesday afternoons. 2. Wednesday afternoons are specifically reserved for sporting activities. QMSU believes: 1. All students deserve opportunity for involvement in sports and extra-curricular activities. 2. Wednesday afternoon lectures directly affect Dental student involvement in these. QMSU resolves: 1. To lobby the college to not schedule teaching on Wednesday afternoons.
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19.0
Commercial Services Working Group
Proposer: Seconder:
Jeeves Wijesuriya (VP London) Richard Donovan (SSLC Representative)
QMSU notes: 1. The continuing frustrations of students with commercial services decision making. 2. The making of a Commercial Services Working Group. QMSU believes: 1. The commercial services working group should take place this summer and provide a report to council for the beginning of next year. QMSU resolves: 1. To mandate meetings of the previously proposed and passed working group.
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