Where are we
going?
Strategic Plan 2011-2014
Shaping the
future of our
union
s t n e t 3 n o C n 4
5 uctio d o r t In d 6 roun le g k c s i f Ba e 8 t Pro n & Valu n e d u o t i S Miss es 9 , n o i Vis Them 12 c i g e t y a t r i St 14 mun t m o - C gemen 16 a - Eng sentation 18 re - Rep ort p - Sup lopment e - Dev
introduction. The Students’ union, a not-for-profit organisation with charitable status, was formed in 1992 as an autonomous part of Robert Gordon University which has a current combined student population of 16,000 students. The Union is founded on the keystone of providing its members, the students, with services that support their experience at University, including welfare, representation, extra-curricular societies and sports clubs, independent advice. Within the current climate of change at the University and within the student population, the Students’ Union has undertaken to develop a strategy that will allow it to further develop its membership services and become more responsive to the needs of the members. Before considering the development of a new strategy the Students’ Union staff and officers reflected on who we are, what we do (mission), what we needed to do (vision) and how we should conduct our future activities (values).
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The Union is founded on the keystone of providing its members with services that support their experience at University. .
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RGU:Union Strategic Plan | 3
background. Since 2008 the Students’ Union has developed in line with the needs of the membership considerably, working towards a change model that focuses more on Membership Services than on Commercial Services. In February 2011 The Students’ Union committed to undertake a Governance Review, facilitated by Julie Byrd Associates. Alongside a pre-audit assessment by a SUEI advisor, it was recommended that RGU:Union considers how best to develop in line with the needs of the membership and to ensure it is fulfilling its charitable objectives. Consultation with the membership since 2008 has seen a desire for the Students’ Union to have a visible presence on the Garthdee campus. This is particularly important in light of the University Estates Masterplan which will have all students on-campus in Garthdee by September 2013. The Students’ Union currently has a satellite office on the Garthdee Campus that has been in operation since April 2011. The Students’ Union staff and officers have reflected that it is imperative to the future of the association that it establishes a strong student heart in the campus for the members. Since 2008 the Students Union has become visibly more democratic and membership-focussed, and it is now a key component in the development of the RGU student experience and a significant contributor to a successful ‘learner journey’. The success of the Students’ Union is integral to the success of the University and key to ensuring the University delivers its strategic mission set out in ‘A Clear Future’. 4 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
Our
constitutional
aims
Represent and promote the general interests of students of the University
Provide or assist in the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure time occupation so that conditions of life may be improved
Advance the arts, culture, education, science, heritage and sport by providing amenities and supporting activities for students
Prevent and relieve poverty and advance health by providing advice and welfare services for students and potential students.
student profile.
UNDERGRAD
Student Profile of the University by Level and Geographic Origin
POSTGRAD (TAUGHT)
POSTGRAD (RESEARCH)
TOTAL
UK
8321
2406
111
10836
EU
991
414
37
1440
INTERNATIONAL
378
2968
128
3473
TOTAL
9690
5788
276
15754
There is a significant, and growing, population of international students across the University. The Union will take account of this and ensure that services are being developed to support this burgeoning population, reflecting the diverse nature of their needs.
UNDERGRAD
Student Profile of the University by Level and Gender
POSTGRAD (TAUGHT)
POSTGRAD (RESEARCH)
TOTAL
MALE
3340
3489
166
6995
FEMALE
6324
2320
115
8759
TOTAL
9664
5809
281
15754
The student population at Robert Gordon University is majority female; this is particularly noticeable at Undergraduate level. The Union will reflect this in the provision of services, and ensure that equality of sexes is evident.
UNDERGRAD
Student Profile of the University by Level and Mode
POSTGRAD (TAUGHT)
POSTGRAD (RESEARCH)
TOTAL
FULL TIME
7384
2187
157
9728
PART TIME
2306
3601
119
6026
TOTAL
9690
5788
276
15754
There is a large cohort of part-time students at Robert Gordon University. The Union will ensure that their specific needs are recognised and develop support services to cater to this group. There is also a significant number of postgraduate students at the University. The Union will survey these students and ensure that the specific needs of the non-school-leaver population are understood and met.
UNDERGRAD
Student Profile of the University by Level and Geographic Study Location
POSTGRAD (TAUGHT)
POSTGRAD (RESEARCH)
TOTAL
ON CAMPUS
8222
2404
276
10902
DISTANCE LEARNING
1468
3384
0
4852
TOTAL
9690
5788
276
15754
A significant number of students at Robert Gordon University do not study on campus in Aberdeen. The Union will consult with this group to gauge their wants and needs and ensure that support services are developed to assist them.
our vision, mission and values. Active a engagemnd inclusive student ent, parti rep enhanrcesentation, whicchipleation and ed stud ent exapds to an erience . Our mission is to make a pos e difference to every student’s itiv experience
vision vision
vision vision vision
of Robert Gordon University by:
Provide a range of membership-focusse activities open to all students. d
1
Being an active, representative student voice
2 3
Promoting independent advice, information and support to students.
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Ensuring the sustainable growth and development of the Students’ Union that reflects the changing needs of the student body.
5
mission
mission
mission mission
gh Promoting an integrated student body throu ities activ cular -curri extra l the provision of socia
rking in an effective
6 Wo partnership with the University 6 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
mission
tic. sation, open, Demobecrsrhia -l p ed organi cesses As a mem ssible democratic pro fair and acce our legitimacy. are critical to
Representative.
Students should feel that the Students’ Union is truly representative of them and their needs, through positive, creative and proactive engagement with, and on behalf of, the student body
Inclusive.
values
values values values
values
The Students’ Union should reflect of all members, regardless of ba the needs race, ethnicity, gender, religion, ckground, members are equal and the Uniculture, etc. All to ensuring this is reflected in its on is committed activities.
Professi onal.
All opera reflect thetions of the Stude aligned w highest professionts’ Union should na ith the rep utation of l standards, the Unive rsity.
Student Led.
Committed. The
Students are the seeks to ensure heart of the organisation and elect and supporthey are fully supported. The the Union leaders and en t sabbatical and non-sabbaticUnion will sure they are ef fective decision al student makers.
Students’ Union is passio membership and enthusia nate about the needs of the met within the changing enstic in ensuring that they are vironment of Higher Educa and the University. tion
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Strategic Theme 1: Community
1 “ community
Community
community
community communitycommunity
8 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
The Students’ Union aims to encourage students to make the most of their time at University through active participation in student activities, societies, sports clubs and volunteering services, leading to a more integrated and social student community, and will help to improve the reputation of the University and the Students’ within the local community. .
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Strategic Theme 1: Community We aim to have a reputation which recognises the Students’ Union as an independent representative body for students, which is valued and respected by the University and the wider community.
Develop and enhance existing methods of recognizing and celebrating student achievement. So that it identifies the contribution students bring to the University and the wider community.
How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Promote the Students’ Union as a professional organisation which represents students and stakeholders needs. Continually communicate to all stakeholders.
a. Highlight individual students or groups who have achieved external accreditations or have gained positive publicity in the wider community.
b. Ensure the Students’ Union is perceived by community leaders as an advocate for student views and interests.
b. Promote and recognize these achievements to the University.
c. Ensure that at all times a professional representative from the Students’ Union attends all relevant committees and acts an ambassador for the organization. d. Develop links and work closely with local communities. Encourage students to have effective working relationships within the local community through working in the community, volunteering and community projects. e. Develop initiatives, a community strategy, and projects to enhance community relations. f. Work with other local institutions on joint ventures which would benefit the local community. Build on existing relationships such as the Aberdeen Students’ Charities Campaign. g. Work collaboratively with other institutions to create a strong student community within Aberdeen City and Shire. Strengthen existing relationships with the Aberdeen Students’ Forum, so that students have an arena to voice their issues. h. Strengthen links with local authority organizations by ensuring a representative from the Students’ Union attends relevant committee meetings on a regular basis.
c. Engage with national awards schemes such as NUS/NUS Scotland awards to recognise student achievement
Create a student community which is inclusive and accessible to all students including the hard to reach groups How will we achieve this? a. Promote a strong and vibrant University community. b. Target the hard to reach groups such as postgraduates, distance learners, mature students and disabled students and find out their needs and aspirations. Develop a clear plan to focus on achieving and meeting their needs. Continually communicate regularly and gain feedback, monitor and evaluate throughout the academic year. c. Ensure media is relevant to particular hard to reach groups, we will create an online virtual environment which will give distance learners the opportunity to engage with the Union. >>> RGU:Union Strategic Plan | 9
Strategic Theme 1: Community d. Encourage hard to reach groups to get involved with extra-curricular activities, aim to have opportunities available to suit all needs. e. Promote events and activities that will encourage wider participation. f. Create a vibrant community throughout the University halls of residence by having interhalls challenges. Ensure we are available for support and advice, at all times working closely with the Accommodation Department g. Improve support and information provided to students living off campus. Encourage students living off campus to use the Union as a hub while at University. h. Support and develop the VP Equality and Diversity so that they are meeting the needs of the hard to reach groups.
Ensure the new Student Union at Garthdee has a strong sense of a student community for all students.
Ensure that international students feel part of the University and Students’ Union community How will we achieve this? a. Provide clear information pre arrival and on arrival working collaboratively with the International Office. b. Ensure that the Students’ Union is part of the orientation process for International students. c. Become further involved with training of any buddy schemes/student ambassadors to strengthen the support from the Union to incoming students. d. Provide social space and events to allow students to integrate, develop non-alcohol events and consider international students cultural and social values when planning events. e. Encourage participation through sports, societies and volunteering, to develop any interests or hobbies. f. Create an opportunity for all students to organize cultural events.
How will we achieve this? a. The new Student Union area at Garthdee will have more accessibility to core services such as advice, advocacy and support. b. Create a student friendly area, where students have a sense of ownership for their Union. This will encourage students to feel part of a student community.
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engageengagement ment engagement
engagement
engagement engagement
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The Students’ Union aims to engage the student body in Union activities with the provision of high quality services and social & recreational facilities. This empowers students to enhance their personal growth and development and ensures that the Union is truly member-led. .
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Strategic Theme 2: Engagement
Strategic Theme 2: Engagement We will strive to engage with the entire student body.
We will support student led initiatives
How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Identify groups who are not currently engaged.
a. Staff and sabbatical officers will make time available to support groups of students wishing to start up new student projects
b. Create specific targeted actions to engage under-represented groups c. Hold feedback sessions with targeted groups to gauge the success of our actions
We will provide facilities and funding to allow students to participate in extracurricular activity. How will we achieve this? a. Sports clubs and societies will be supported in any fundraising attempts b. Ensure facilities offered in partnership with RGU: SPORT are sufficient and adequate for the needs of sports clubs c. Meeting space will be provided for societies and sports clubs
We will provide social facilities for students
b. Funding will be secured to ensure projects are successful
We will support the development of societies and assist in starting up new ones How will we achieve this? a. Staff support will be given for new societies starting up b. Information about societies will be accessible to all students c. Freshers and refreshers fayres will be held to promote societies and assist in increasing membership
We will provide volunteering opportunity focusing on student development. How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Volunteering opportunities within the community will be publicised
a. Develop recreational facilities for students to relax before, between and after lectures
b. A volunteering abroad programme will be developed to allow students to broaden the horizons
b. Consult students to ensure there are adequate facilities at the university for non-academic activities
12 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
Engagement (cont) The partnership between RGU: SPORT and the Union will allow for development of sport and physical activity. How will we achieve this? a. Work closely with the Director of Sport to develop student sport b. Sports clubs will engage in the decision making and development at the Sports Forum c. Sport club and physical activity initiative will be accessible to all students d. Freshers and refreshers fayres will be held to promote sports clubs and assist in increasing membership e. Provide opportunities to engage with sport both through participation and volunteering f. New sports clubs will be supported where there is desire by the student population g. Deliver a multi sport programme consisting of training and a competitive programme at varying levels
We will recognise the success of our students. How will we achieve this? a. We will be active participants in Graduation ceremonies b. We will award students for their volunteering c. We will have an annual Student Achievement Awards Ball to recognise the important contribution our Societies and volunteers make to the RGU student community. d. We will, in association with RGU:SPORT, have an annual Sports Awards Ball to recognise the significant sporting achievement of RGU students.
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representation
representation representation
representation representation representation
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The Students’ Union aims to truly represent the needs and aspirations of the entire student body to the University and other decision-making bodies (internally and externally), ensuring that all members of the organisation, especially from hardto-reach groups are fully consulted and involved. .
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Strategic Theme 3: Representation
Strategic Theme 3: Representation We shall function as a truly representative and democratic body How will we achieve this? a. Hold General Meetings to allow students the opportunity to come forward with their thoughts. b. Carry out review processes to assess our own performance at meeting student needs, create improvement plans and feedback on progress with improvement c. Inform all students outside of election times about how to apply and become involved in the vibrant environment d. Make democracy easier to understand by using plain English and visual tools e. Use current and relevant technologies to engage with the student body, e.g. Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc. f. Ensure that matters discussed are relevant to our student needs g. Ensure we have policies in place that apply to all students.
We will be experts on the view of our students How will we achieve this? a. Use our insight to inform others what views are across the entire student body b. Have an open door policy to our Presidents that allows students to drop in with their views and concerns c. Hold focus groups and open meetings for students to discuss arising matters d. Regularly hold ‘Go Out and Listen’ (GOAL) and ‘Go Out and Talk’ (GOAT) days with students on campus
Our outcomes will be clearly communicated to the Student Body How will we achieve this? a. Send out weekly updates through the use of our electronic bulletin ‘Wired’ b. Email out specifically on important issues as well as general weekly updates
Will work in a close relationship with the University
c. Publicise minutes of all Union committees and meetings
How will we achieve this?
d. Create relevant and engaging hard- and soft-copy media
a. Have regular meetings with the University Senior Management Team
e. Use social media channels to distribute information to students
b. Ensure there is student membership of all University committees that have relevance to the student body
f. Hold regular open information meetings with students to allow face-to-face dissemination of outcomes
c. Advocate for students and help resolve disputes that arise d. Maintain up to date knowledge of the services available within the University to provide efficient signposting, support and multidirectional aid
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RGU:Union Strategic Plan | 15
Representation (cont) We shall ensure the quality and enhancement of the Academic Experience
We shall create strong and efficient officer teams that represent you
How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Take part in University reviews such as Enhancement Led Institutional Reviews and Institution Led Subject Reviews
a. Provide training for all those elected into office and set clear outcomes
b. Engage in relevant University structures c. Ensure that the student’s demand for up-todate technology is articulated
We shall represent the views of ours students at a national level
b. Sabbatical Officers will have an in-depth induction programme and take part in at least a two week handover period c. Promote the benefits of getting involved as a student representative in the Students’ Union d. We shall make full use of the resources available through SPARQS and the NUS e. Encourage collaboration with other student unions
How will we achieve this? a. Inform the policy of the Nation Union of Students (NUS) b. Attend conferences and meetings across the UK to ensure the view of Robert Gordon University students is fully represented c. Work alongside Student Participation in Quality Scotland (SPARQS) and ensure we have the latest training for our Faculty and Class representatives
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Strategic Theme 4: Support
4 support
support support
support
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The Students’ Union aims to be an independent, confidential and approachable voice for students. It is critical to provide advice and to inform and listen to students during their time at the University to enhance their health, well-being and success. .
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support support
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Strategic Theme 4: Support We will provide our students with the appropriate services to support them during their time at University. How will we achieve this? a. Develop a visible presence for advice and support, continually updating our website and other forms of media.
b. Support students and offer guidance during exam time by working closely with the Study Skills Department & by offering specific classes to meet their needs. c. Work closely with the University to ensure materials and support to avoid plagiarism is accessible and relevant to all students throughout the academic year. d. Identify specific periods in a students’ academic journey where problems may arise.
b. Distributing promotional material throughout the University maintaining physical presence on campus.
e. Provide assistance to students dealing with accommodation issues within University property and the wider city.
c. Continually promote and communicate to all students the range of advice and support services the Students’ Union offers.
f. Provide an informed signposting service for financial issues, counselling and other student services.
d. Support and give guidance to our clubs and societies and other student-led activities. Provide inductions and training to societies and clubs to ensure they are welcoming and inclusive to new members and encourage innovation.
g. Work closely with the Careers Department to provide students with information on how to increase their employability. Organise workshops on interview techniques, presentation skills and other transferable skills. Facilitate extra- curricular activities such as volunteering and student enterprise to encourage personal development and to enhance their CV.
e. Promote that the Union is willing to listen. f. Ensure our advice and support services are easily accessible to all students. g. Promote equal opportunities for all students by actively encouraging integration and diversity through all services the Students’ Union offers to students.
Empower students to campaign for student rights How will we achieve this?
Work closely with internal and external organisations and departments to ensure students needs are being met
a. Work closely with NHS Scotland to promote health campaigns.
How will we achieve this?
c. Campaign to ensure that standards are at the appropriate level in all student accommodation within Aberdeen, through accreditation schemes.
a. To build upon the service offered by the Students’ Union to international students and continually develop links with the International Student Advice Service.
18 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
b. Continue to work with RGU: SPORT, NUS and the University to raise awareness of mental health issues.
d. Support and give guidance to students to raise awareness and campaign on transport and travel issues. >>>
Support (cont) e. Work with NUS to raise awareness about campaigns which affects students locally and nationally. Where government policy has an impact on the student life, encourage students to become actively involved in lobbying for change.
Act as independent body to support and advise students How will we achieve this? a. Act as an avenue for students to raise disputes with the University. b. Provide a support mechanism for students going through university processes such as academic appeals, misconduct and complaints.
Support and develop Staff, Presidents, Vice Presidents and students to enhance their time at Robert Gordon University How will we achieve this? a. Continually improve the knowledge and skills of the Students’ Union staff by providing support, development and training. b. Provide support and guidance to new Presidents and Vice Presidents to ensure the transitional period from student to trustee enables them to have the knowledge and skills to be effective in their role.
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RGU:Union Strategic Plan | 19
Strategic Theme 5: Development
5 “ development
development
development
development
20 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
The Students’ Union must develop in line with the ever-changing needs of the student body; reflecting the growth and change within the University, and the Higher Education landscape generally. We will ensure that the Union is relevant at all times to the membership, striving to continually review and update our service provision. Good governance, good people, strong finances, fit-forpurpose facilities and good communication are all critical to our efforts to be an effective Students’ Union. .
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developme nt development
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Strategic Theme 5: Development We will ensure the financial stability and sustainability of the Students’ Union
We will ensure that we have up-to-date information on our members’ views and needs.
How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Aim to build reserves annually to provide a solid financial foundation for the future.
a. We will implement a research strategy aimed at gathering details and identifying specific student needs annually
b. Continue to have open and honest discussion with the University regarding our services and their contribution to the student experience c. Monitor our accounts and review our performance monthly, taking corrective action where necessary.
We will ensure that the finance resources, systems and procedures support the delivery of our services. How will we achieve this? a. Examine alternatives to our finance system and implement any relevant recommendations. b. Review financial procedures and regulations with the support of the University to ensure their effectiveness and compliance with the Education Act 1994. c. Manage cashflow effectively d. Undergo regular and robust internal audit
We will ensure that staff are treated fairly and that diversity is valued in all areas of the Students’ Union. How will we achieve this? a. Investigate adopting the principles and practice of Investors in People
b. We will carry out periodic ‘health-check’ reviews to ensure our information is recent and relevant
We will ensure that staff are developed and reach their full potential How will we achieve this? a. Develop understanding of the importance of partnership working between staff and student representatives to ensure the organisation works effectively b. Develop formal training framework c. Introduce formal succession planning policy
We will comply with all legal requirements How will we achieve this? a. Ensure that the requirements of maintaining charitable status are well understood and met. b. Ensure that requirements of the Equality Act 2010 are understood and implemented c. Ensure that we remain compliant with the Education Act 1994 and associated University Code of Practice for the Students’ Union
b. Implement a diversity audit and act on results RGU:Union Strategic Plan | 21
Development (cont) We will ensure that the organisation has effective, adequate and efficient governance structures. How will we achieve this? a. Respond to the recommendations of the Governance review conducted in February 2011 b. Deliver training required to support Sabbatical Officers in their roles c. Deliver training required to support Trustees in their roles
We will ensure that the Students’ Union is environmentally and ethically robust. How will we achieve this? a. Achieve Gold standard in the Green Impact Students’ Unions awards scheme. b. Achieve fair trade certification c. Implement a new environmental policy. d. Actively assist the University in achieving environmental sustainability aims.
We will communicate with our members in a manner that s relevant to them and meet their expectations.
We will continue to develop strong relationships with the University for the benefit of our members.
How will we achieve this?
How will we achieve this?
a. Deliver our communications strategy and review outcomes.
a. Ensure all officers have a strong induction on University relationships.
b. Ensure our website contains up-to-date information to inform our members how we work.
a. Encourage officers to seek out collaborative working relationships with University departments.
c. Tell students what we do, what we have achieved and what we are working on in plain English.
c. Ensure the Students’ Union is actively representing the student voice in discussions that concern the Robert Gordon University student experience.
d. Ensure that students instantly recognise our brand and associate with it
We will ensure that any risk to the organisation are properly assessed and managed. How will we achieve this? a. Implement and regularly review a risk register b. Implement a risk management policy c. Establish a business continuity plan. 22 | RGU:Union Strategic Plan
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achievements to date COMMUNITY - Worked with Red Frogs Support Network to help create a community between students at RGU halls of residence through events, and across campus by encouraging societies to work closely together. - Introduced Equality Champions to focus on hard to reach groups within the student body. - Relocation of membership services to a new space in the heart of the campus has seen increased footfall and engagement. - Sabbaticals are working closely with the University to investigate ways of promoting a community on campus. A student hub has been created to encourage student drop-ins. - Increased the use of web and social media content in the build-up to Freshers, which encourages engagement and provides information to pre-arrival students. - Introduced an airport collection service for international students who arrived early. - Sabbaticals attended and contributed to induction talks throughout all faculties. - International welcome events were hosted in conjunction with the University. - ‘Give It A Go’ week was held in October, aimed at promoting society involvement. - ‘One RGU Many Nations’ event was held in early 2013, a large-scale on campus international event, funded by the University and organised entirely by registered Union volunteers. - Built on working partnerships with Unight, Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations and Ruthieston Community Centre (based next to the University campus). - Produced a community strategy, with targets and aims. - Encouraged society and sports club particupation in the Aberdeen Student Torcher Parade. - RAG were awarded with the national Best Recruiter Award from Childreach International. ENGAGEMENT - Working closely with Gray’s School of Art to sell student-made products in the Union Shop on campus, and in the Union building on Schoolhill. - Co-promoted the Extra Curricular Award in conjunction witht he University. - Introduced and developed the Societies Forum, to encourage engagement with all societies. - Retained a city centre presence until May 2014 after a high profile student led campaign. - Currently in the process of creating an on campus Media Hub in the Riverside East building. - Sabbaticals attend and deliver speeches at Graduation ceremonies. - A series of on campus intramural sporting events are promoted throughout the student body. - RAG is actively introducing an increased number of new fundraising projects abroad. REPRESENTATION - The 2012 AGM saw our highest attendance for years. - Reviewed and updated Election Regulations, introduced a candidate feedback form, and a complaints procedure. - Currently in the process of installing a full membership analysis system, which will allow us to identify under-engaged groups and act upon this. - Strengthened the Faculty Officer positions, and introduced a more robust feedback system. - Clear objectives were introduced for Officers with a monthly feedback mechanism. SUPPORT - Created a confidential on campus space for advice and support. - Signed a Mental Health Agreement with the University. - Developed and created an Equality & Diversity Policy, with clear targets and aims. - Currently in the process of introducing a Niteline service. - Introduced a campaign focused on lowering the price of transport for students. DEVELOPMENT - Continued year-on-year to produce a balanced budget, and built a small reserve. - Updated the financial regulations in line with our new constitution. - Updated the allocation of funds guidelines for societies to comply with the Education Act. - Beginning the Investors In People process. - Carried out market research through NUS. - Introduced a communication strategy, risk register and social media guidelines.
rgu:
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