Cameron, Student Union President
S.H.A.G Week
This past month, I’ve been focused on preparing for S.H.A.G (Sexual Health and Guidance) Week, tackling student housing issues, and working with the university to improve the student experience within the challenges posed by budget cuts and financial deficits.
S.H.A.G Week preparations have been in full swing, and I’ve spent a lot of time finalising events, securing budgets, and making sure everything is in place to deliver an amazing week for students. We’ve put together an exciting line-up of events, including a drag show with special guest Vinegar Strokes, as well as relationship and break-up workshops, all designed to encourage open conversations around sexual health, relationships, and well-being.
Student Housing
On student housing, I’ve been working alongside officers across Scotland to lobby the government for amendments to the Housing Bill. Our key focuses have been:
- Scrapping guarantor requirements for student tenants
- Ensuring new rights apply to students in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
- Pushing for stronger protections for students in housing law
I have multiple meetings lined up with MSPs over the coming weeks to push for these crucial changes, ensuring that students are not left behind in housing reforms.
Campaigning
On the democracy and representation front, I’ve been speaking with students about the upcoming changes, finalising key details, and working closely with the university to make sure nothing is being overlooked. A lot of this has been the behind-the-scenes admin work, but it’s an important step in ensuring student voices remain at the centre of decision-making.
I’ve also met with university officials to discuss how budget cuts and financial challenges will impact students, advocating for steps to protect student services and support systems.
With a month full of campaigning, lobbying, and event planning, I’ve been working hard to drive real change for students—whether that’s securing stronger housing rights or creating inclusive and engaging student experiences.
Holly, VP Academic
Refreshers Week
Welcoming new and continuing students back onto campus by attending a range of introductory and orientation events hosted by the University and Union.
Therapet guinea pigs!
For those that did not see on our socials, we had these special rodents come visit our Union for an afternoon of cuddles! What a great way it was to begin the semester before classes started.
Community Meal
Myself and the other officers served up the first community meal of the semester together, which was tasty Haggis to celebrate Burn’s Day.
It was such a great day being able to speak to so many students – make sure to look out on our socials for the next one!
Progressive movements towards assessment feedback
The University has begun to adopt and encourage use of the new ‘Action Feedback Protocol’, which provides insightful and actionable feedback on your assessments to help support your learning.
Sebi, VP Community
Refreshers Week
This month has been a crazy start to the second semester, with a whole range of successful refreshers events. Our lively new students came along to mixers, bowling, a tour of Edinburgh and the return of the weekly pub quiz which had a record breaking 25 teams competing for the top prize!
Sustainability Drop-In
Following on from that we had our first sustainability drop-in where we talked about all things sustainability and looked at our exciting lineup of events this semester. So, reach out to me if you'd like to get involved!
Societies Council
Finally, our first Societies Council was jampacked with information and society leaders gave us tonnes of valuable feedback and we'll be changing the way we run the soc council based on what societies have said to give them more training and experience!
Rachel, VP Wellbeing
Training the New Black Voices Advocates
One of the big wins this month was getting the new Black Voices Advocates up to speed. I spent some time working with the team to make sure they felt confident and ready to dive into their roles. The group was really engaged, and I’m buzzing to see them get started and bring their energy to the cause.
Strategic Planning at the Trustee Away Day
Had the chance to be part of some serious strategy sessions at the Trustee Away Day. We came together to map out the bigger picture and make sure we’re all on the same page for the year ahead. It was a really productive day, and I’m excited to see how all our plans play out.
Prepping for Sexual Health and Guidance Week
I've also been busy getting everything lined up for Sexual Health and Guidance Week coming up with the team. Lots of behind-the-scenes work to make sure the schedule’s looking good, and that the content is relevant and helpful for everyone. Can’t wait for it to kick off and start some important conversations in amongst a lot of fun!