Community and Welfare Blog

Networks make the world go round

Thu, 23 May 2013 16:15:00 +0100

Today, UWE Student's celebrated the successes of the Networks and all their hard work that they have done throughout the year. Networks, are, in my view, one of the best bits of UWE Students' Union. They are the ones who bring equality and diversity to life, and champion it with energy, drive, and dedication.

If you ever question the purpose of the Networks, the importance of their works is reflected in the local community. We don't need to look very far for evidence of this. Yesterdays incidence in Woolwich highlights just how important equality and diversity is, and communities working together, respecting each other, and learning together.

More than just a building...

Many a time students perceive the Students’ Union to be just a brick building, Freshers’ events, £1.50 Fridays, and a very handy discount card for your bus. I hope that through your involvement with the Students' Union, you’ve discovered the true meaning of what a Students’ Union is.

The Students’ Union is you. Through the activities that you hold, the money you raise for local charities, the festival celebrations, the carol singing, the book launches, the campaigns, the sport events... You are the Students' Union.

Networks are unique. A few years ago, UWE Students’ Union made the decision to create Networks, and put equality and diversity at the very heart of what we do. This allowed a clearer focus on a host of fantastic work, and the opportunity to bring out new student leaders.

Putting equality and diversity at the heart of the UWE students experience

UWE prides itself in being an international community, where students from all over the world come and study. This makes UWE a very diverse and richer for it’s culture.

This year, we won permanent funding for the continuation of the Vice President Community & Welfare post, and in effect, to ensure that the Networks remain, and have the space to grow. Securing the funding wasn’t an easy job. But it’s one that I would have done all over again if it needed to. I am so proud of all of the Networks, as without their hard work, we wouldn’t have had the evidence to show why UWE needs to fully get behind equality and diversity.

UWE as an intercultural University

University is a unique time when you can rediscover your intentity, and meet people who share the same beliefs as you, whilst also meeting people with different views. All of which play a strong part of shaping your journey through university. Identity is a very important and integral part of lives. One that, here at UWE, is celebrated, and valued.

Last year, Networks were very much in their foundation stage, and now I am very proud to see that there is a strong membership of over 500 registered students, and 23 strong and established Networks. This will grow each year, because of the sheer energy that Networks show to drive the equality and diversity agenda forward.

Beyond UWE Students' Union

As most of you are either finishing university, preparing for the summer, or getting yourself excited for another year at UWE... Here's my advice to you. Never inderestimate your involvement with Students' Union, and the skills you gain. University is much more than completing a degree. Even more than aiming for 2:1 or a 1st. You musn't forget that outside in the real world, the seemingly big bad world of employement and job hunting, your degree will not be enough. Getting involved with a varitety of activities, is what will make you stand out.

For those of you who've been involved with Sports, Societies, Networks, Student Reps, volunteering, all of those things; well done. You are the actively involved, and student change makers of the future. And if you're still around next year, or the year after that, there's still time. You don't want to be that person with nothing else to talk about than: "I've got a degree from UWE". (Even though UWE is the place to study).

NUS National Conference : The Good, The Bad, And the Ugly

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:40:00 +0100

Last week, I had the honour of attending NUS National Conference which is the sovereign policy making body of the National Union of Students (NUS). The core purpose of National Conferencence, it to set policy for the year ahead in each of the 5 zones (Welfare, Higher Education, Society & Citicizenship, Union Development, Further Education) and elect the President, Vice Presidents and Block of 15 representatives on the National Executive Council. It is also where the budget for the year ahead is decided through the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

It brings together students from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, for a packed out 3 days of democracy. This was my second National Conference, and one that I will remember for a very long time. I'm a self confessed politics geek, and relish the buzzing enviroments of conferences, and being surrounded by passionate, driven people, excited to make change. It's a little bit difficult to try to sum up everything that happened, as, well, so much happened. So hopefully I have made it as interactive as possible for you all...!

Here's the NUSround up of day one and day two.

There was alot of policy debated, and motions passed, but I'm going to focus on my top 5. (In no particular order)

1. Using the NSS to build a partnership in Higher Education

The NSS (National Student Survey) is a high profile annual census of nearly half a million students across the UK. It is an established survey and produces influential Higher Education public information, giving students a powerful collective voice to help shape the future of their course and university or college.

Here at UWE, we saw first hand the power of the NSS survey, in the recent campaign to save the Politics and IR course, which resulted in the University doing a U-turn in it's decision to shut the course. A core reason of this, was due to the strong NSS results of the course.

The motion at Conference, aimed to ensure that NUS using the NSS, as a tool of strong partnership, with both Students' Unions, colleges and Universities.

2. Mental Health Awareness and Challenging Discrimination

It was great to see mental health being discussed at National Conference, and even more so that UWE Student's Union submitted the motion! NUS this year, through the NUS Disabled Students Campaign, have produced some excellent Mental Health Activist Guides giving practise tools on how student activists can look after their wellbeing.

The motion brought mental health as a top agenda priority for NUS, exploring more robust work to be done through staff training, workshops, fit to sit policies, challenging mental health discrimination, and reducing stigma.

With UWE Students' Union being a strong campaigner challenging mealth mental discrimination, and recently UWE signing up to the Time To Change pledge, it's brilliant to see so many insititutions putting student wellbeing at the heart of what they do.

3. Gender Balancing

This motion recieved alot of interest even prior conference, mainly lead by the NUS Womens' Campaign. This Gender Balancing motion looked to reserving places for women in Students' Union delegation at NUS National Conference, to ensure a fairer representation. This motion fell at Conference, though the UWE Students' Union delegates were keen to bring the discussions back to UWE, and see how the discussions went from there. Even though it didn't pass at NUS National Conference, this does not mean that it cannot be something that UWE Students' Union adopts in the future. So if you're keen in doing so check out our helpful tips in submiting motions to the next Annual General Meeting (AGM).

4. Lad Culture & Hidden Marks

This year, the NUS Womens' Campaign launched a new report, "That's What She Said" looking into the womens' experience of 'lad' culture in higher education. Here at UWE, like in many institutions, 'lad culture' and sexism does exist (however much we wish it didn't). Very often, 'lad culture' is covered up as 'banter' making for many, the impression that sexism is ok. Many insititutions have seen the Spotted pages that have gone viral, with many of it's comments showing sexism and lad culture at it's worst. A counter page has recently been launched titled Spotted: Sexism on Campus and has acted as a platform for people to raise concerns about sexism on their University or College campus and allow people who may otherwise feel uncomfortable to talk about their experiences to do so.

If you wish to be a part of the UWE Students' Union Femisist Society, you can do so here.

5. Higher Education: Funding, Markets and A Policy Platform for 2013

The debate of the future of education is something that was at the heart of National Conference. The future looks daunting for many, with many barriers to access to education. Last year, NUS lead a National Demonstrastion, against fees. And this year, it was very interesting hearing the debates on conferance floor about what leadership they wanted to see from NUS. Interestingly, the motion admendant of holding another demo fell (meaning, majority voted against), and the main manifesto point from Toni Pearce (NUS National President elect) was to see an NUS that fought for something, instead of against something.

Who won the elections?

Toni Pearce - NUS National President

Rachel Wenstone - NUS Vice President Higher Education

Joe Vinson - NUS Vice President Further Education

Rachael Mattey - NUS Vice President Union Development

Dom Anderson - NUS Vice President Society & Citizenship

Colum McGuire - NUS Vice President Welfare

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

Voting in the elections is just a waste of time. Right?

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:34:00 Z

Hopefully you'll know that here at UWE Students' Union, we're getting really excited about elections. But you may be wondering what all this commotion is about, and why you should bother voting in the elections in the first place.

UWE Students' Union is lead by students for students. This means that you, yes you, have the power to have a HUGE say in how your Students' Union is lead.

This week, you may notice that the campus is invaded by posters, sweets, and over excited candidates asking for your votes.

I know that by day 3 of elections, you may start getting tired of the elections overload, BUT please do stop and listen to what the candidates have to say, grab their leaflets, read their manifestos, and don't forget to VOTE

Before everything goes a little ELECTIIIIIONS mania why not come along and hear what the candidates for full time positions have to offer, at the Elections Question Time happening this Friday, 12:30pm-2:30pm in Core24 it's a great way to hear what the candidates have to say, and what they will deliver for you!

Voting... Am I bothered?

Think the elections don't matter? THINK AGAIN! Past Officers have had successes such as securing rent funding refunds of £76,000 owed to students, helped make library services 24/7, secured permanent funding for Officer positions, helped implement a online submission system, secured funding for new Students' Union building... And more! So in short, you taking the time to vote in the elections can make a HUGE difference on your time at UWE.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

Student Guest Blog : Equal Marriage : It's All About Love

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:14:00 Z

As you may know. Today is quite an important day. Parliament will be voting on the same sex bill.

You'll be able to watch it all LIVE here

MPs will be debating the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill at second reading at 12:40pm on 5 February 2013.

Equal marriage what?

The bill will legalise gay marriage and enables same-sex couples to get married in both civil and religious ceremonies, where a religious institution had formally consented, in England and Wales.

The bill will also allow couples who had previously entered into civil partnerships to convert their relationship into a marriage.

Conservative and Labour MPs have been given a free vote on the bill but the debate around same-sex marriage has opened up significant differences within the Conservative party - up to 150 Tory MPs are expected to defy the prime minister and vote against the bill.

But a group of 50 senior Conservative activists have warned that opposing gay marriage could "risk alienating the voters we will need in 2015".

In an open letter to 10 Downing Street the activists, including the chair of Conservative Future - the party's section for under 30s - and the chair of the National Conservative Convention - which leads the party's grassroots work - said "To win, [the 2015 election] the Conservative Party must mount a broad appeal."

Under proposals religious organisations will be able to opt in to allowing same sex-marriages, while those opposing will be protected by a 'Quardruple Lock' of laws, involving:

no religious organisation or individual minister being compelled to marry same-sex couples or to permit this to happen on their premises

making it unlawful for religious organisations or their ministers to marry same-sex couples unless their organisation's governing body has expressly opted in to provisions for doing so
amending the 2010 Equality Act to ensure no discrimination claim can be brought against religious organisations or individual ministers for refusing to marry a same-sex couple
the legislation explicitly stating that it will be illegal for the Church of England and the Church in Wales to marry same-sex couples.

The bill will apply to England and Wales but there are already plans for a bill to allow same-sex marriage in Scotland. The policy was announced by the Scottish government in 2011, following a public consultation on the issue.

There are currently no plans for similar legislation in Northern Ireland.

Student Guest Blog : What does equal marriage mean to me?

Equal marriage to me would be a turning point for society, for myself, and for the LGBT community. I would be allowed to go through the stress of thinking up an amazing proposal, booking a wedding date, finding a venue and sending out invitations.

It means I’d get into arguments with my family about the size of my cake, and the price of my dress.

Equal marriage means that special day that all little girls dream of, that I’ve dreamt of, will finally come true- except my prince charming is a princess. I want to get nervous, and cry, and feel those “pre-wedding jitters “on the way to my wedding, I want my dad to be able to walk me down the aisle, and have our last dance.

I want to be able to introduce people to “my wife” and show them my wedding photos.

Equal marriage means being able to tell the person I love just how much I love them, in front of friends and family, in a beautiful ceremony that I thought I’d never be able to have. Equal marriage shows me that my love is just as important, and just as special as love between a man and a woman.

I truly believe that marriage is a human right, and not a heterosexual privilege.

I think it’s time to do what should have been done a long time ago.

It’s time to legalise same-sex marriage!

What can I do to support equal marriage?

Email your MP
A simple way to join the online campaign is to email your MP and encourage other people to do the same. Now that Equal Marriage is going to be put to a vote, we really need to let our local MPs know that Equal Marriage is something that we want to happen and we, as members of their constituency, want them to use their vote to reflect this.

If you’ve only got a minute: Email your MP and ask them to vote for Equal Marriage. You can do this by going to www.nus.org.uk/equalmarriage

If you’ve got a little longer: Circulate the link and ask people to do the same. You can do this by email or twitter. Suggested tweets:

February 2013: what did you do? Make history. Support #equalmarriage www.nus.org.uk/equalmarriage

Join me & @NUS_LGBT & ask your MP to #comeoutforequalmarriage www.nus.org.uk/equalmarriage #equalmarriage

You can also find out your MP’s position on Equal Marriage by going to: www.C4em.org.uk And whilst you’re there, sign their petition!

Tweet Your MP
Many MPs now have twitter accounts. You can find out if your MP has a twitter account here: www.tweetminster.co.uk

If you’ve only got a minute: Tweet your MP and ask them to vote for Equal Marriage.

Suggested tweets:

@MP Me & @NUS_LGBT want you to vote for #equalmarriage & #comeoutforequalmarriage how will you be voting?

@MP how will you be voting on the #equalmarriage bill? Please vote yes & #comeoutforequalmarriage

@MP February is LGBT History month. Play your part. Make #equalmarriage happen

@MP Play your part in LGBT History Month. Support #equalmarriage

If you’ve got a little longer: Ask other people to do the same! Circulate this information and in particular the following link to all of your contacts and ask them to join you and Come Out for Equal Marriage: www.nus.org.uk/equalmarriage

NUS LGBT Campaign

NUS LGBT is an autonomous part of NUS. We are a democratic organisation and students who define themselves as LGBT decide our policy at our annual conference. NUS-affiliated students’ unions can send up to four students to this conference and any LGBT student can put forward a motion for discussion. The delegates debate the motions and votes are taken.

The National LGBT Officers are elected at the conference. They then decide how and when to carry out the policies passed.

Officers

Sky Yarlett - sky.yarlett@nus.org.uk
Finn McGoldrick - finn.mcgoldrick@nus.org.uk

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

No, we're not Homebase. But we may just be the next best thing

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:30:00 Z

Make A House A Home... With help from UWE Students' Union

Catchy advert, right? I've just spent the first 20 minutes at work trying to find the advery theme tune to "Make A House A Home"... Why? Well, because tomorrow, UWE Students' Union gives you the opportunity to do just that. If you haven't seen the gigantic banner at the entrance of UWE Frenchay Campus, then you've clearly been walking into uni with your eyes shut.

Finding a new house isn't easy. There is so much to chose from, and so many ways you can get rather confused. From figuring out what exactly you're signing when you agree to a contract, to paying deposits, to checking that the house you're about to rent is actually decent, to figure out how much bills are going to come up to. Making a house a home, isn't always straight forward.

But that's alright. We've invited experts who will be able to check your tenancy agreements, advise you on your rights as a tenant, have a chatt with the Avon Fire Service, get your laptop and valuables insured by Endsleigh, and get information on deposits and agency fees. You will also be able to gain invaluable information regarding gas and fire safety in the home.

Which is all very important stuff.

So, see you there, right?

Excellent.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

Drinks, Drugs and Rock & Roll

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 11:01:00 Z

Drinks, drugs and rock & roll. But how rock and roll is it really? People may use drugs for a variety of reasons. Curiosity, social influences, escapism, or a way to make friends. But how do you know when the fun goes one step too far...? Although most young people who experiment with alcohol and other drugs don't experience major issues, drug use can cause many and varied problems. Using legal or illegal drugs may not only affect the young people themselves, but also friends, family and others around them.

As a student, you are exposed to a host of different things, but it's important to know how to look after yourself. You only have one body, one life, and sometimes one mistake can have detremental consequences.

UWE Students' Union understands that student life can be difficult, and challenging. This is why we offer a host of support services, to ensure that students are able to get best out of their university experience.

We are extremely proud to have launched the Coffee & Drugs campaign in partnership with Bristol Drugs Project, where we offer advice and support for students.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

UWE Students' Union Advice Centre: http://www.uwesu.org/support/advice-centre/

UWE Wellbeing Services: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/healthandwellbeing

BBC Drinks & Drugs Advice: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/advice/drink_drugs

Bristol Drugs Project: http://www.bdp.org.uk/

Talk To Frank: http://www.talktofrank.com/

Bristol Mind: http://www.bristolmind.org.uk/mental-health-resources/alcohol-drugs

4YP Bristol: http://www.4ypbristol.co.uk/drugshelp

It's starting to feel a lot like Christmas

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:06:00 Z

A Christmassy hello from your Vice President Community & Welfare

Hello world! Here's a huge hello from your Vice President Community & Welfare. I appear to have been dressed as Santa alot (obviously I'm not the real one!) as I mangaged to get an outfit from the Santa Fun Run (I was on the evening news and everything) ---> http://www.itv.com/news/west/story/2012-12-02/charity-santa-runs/ and ever since then, I've made various appearances dressed all in red. Quite alot of fun indeed!

I thought I would give you an update of what I have been up to, what I plan to do, and just a general update on the Community & Welfare update. I've broken it down to my manifesto pledges, and letting you know what I have achieved, and plans for the future. Happy reading!

Continue to put student well-being at the top of the University agenda

Mental Health: Carried forward the Time To Change pledge that was signed by UWE Students’ Union in February 2012, and engaged hundreds of students to end mental health discrimination, through the Mental Health Awareness Road Show; organised in partnership with UWE Wellbeing Services. The Road Show gained recognition from UWE Healthy University Group, and National Union of Students (NUS). In the space of the week, we engaged with 300 students who shared with us "What Makes You Happy". Check out the photos from Frenchay, Bower, St Matts, Glenside, and Hartpury.

Coffee & Drugs: Working in partnership with UWE Healthy University Group and Bristol Drugs Project we have launched Coffee & Drugs at Bower Ashton Campus, where students are able to get free and confidential advice.

Glenside goes Smoke Free: We have launched a Smoke Free Clinic at St Matts, where you are able to get help and support for quitting smoking.

Drink Aware: Really excited to have worked with NUS Drink Aware to launch an excellent Drink Aware campaign. We gave out surveys asking students of their drinking, and in return students got a free burger and chips (not bad, right). The core message was highlighting the importance of pacing your drinks, and having food before big nights out. Though it's good to have drink, knowing your limits is very important to avoiding getting yourself in unwanted situations! Well done to the lucky winner of the Drink Aware survey too, who got a free digitial camera just in time for Christmas!

Work to make Sports, Societies, and Networks more inclusive and welcoming for all students

This year I have been involved in the Sports & Societies Committee training, and delivered a “Inclusive Students’ Union” training to Sports & Societies, encouraging them to diversify their activities to be inclusive and get involved with equality campaigns.

We launched the Inspire A Generation a springboard campaign from London 2012 Paralympics, exploring what the Students' Union can do to make Sports more accessible for all. In the new year, working with Nina Gizzie - VP Sports I shall be looking into setting up new Sports clubs, and have events similar to the Paralympics. All very exciting, so watch this space!

Strengthen the UWE student community; ensuring students feel they have ownership of their campuses

Halls Reps: I am extremely proud of the strong Halls Rep system both on campus and in city. The Halls Rep system is in place to ensure good students experience. We elected a Halls Rep Committee for the Student Village, and held Open meetings at Market Gate, and Student Village

Settling In Team: This year, we launched the “Settling In Team” prior and during Freshers’ Week, to ensure students felt settled in University life. The response from students was positive, and liked this new welcome. We hope to continue this next year, and the years to come.

Campus communities: This year, I am looking closely at campus communities, and working with Campus Officers to support their campus, and help bring value to the community. Each President are given a campus to be the main point of contact for, and mine is Bower Ashton! That's why you've probably seen me a botu quite a few times there! If not, apologies, catch me in the new year! Very excited to have two excellent Bower Campus Officers, bringing a strong Bower student voice to the UWE Students' Union.

Build a strong, vibrant, campaign Union

I have lead and supported strong campaigns, within the Students' Union from Bristol Pride, Black History Month, drink aware, drugs and alcohol, community engagement,

National Demo: The NUS National Demo was an exciting opportunity to engage with students on a national campaign to fight for the future of education. We heald and Demo Open Forum, to empower students to get involved politically both locally and nationally. The National Demo was an exciting day wehn we joined thousands of student from across the country.

Networks: Student Networks have championed various excellent campaigns, from interfaith, to liberation, to widening participation. The truly are a beacon of change makers. Couldn't be more proud of them, and all their hard work!

Ensure long term sustainability of the Vice President Community & Welfare post

I have been fighting to keep the Vice President Community & Welfare post within the Students' Union, to ensure permament funding for the years ahead. This has been a tough fight, but one that I am very proud to have fought alongside students here at UWE. I hope to have a positive response before Christmas to deliver to you all! So keep your fingers crossed!

Empower students to make things happen within their Students' Union, and their local community

My role within the Students' Union is to empower student to get involved within the Students' Union. I do this through the Networks, Halls Reps, and giving opportunities for students to make the most of their UWE student experience.

The future looks bright, the future is 2013

So what's instore for the New Year? Quite alot actually! But here are the top 4!

1. Re-Freshers Fair

On the 22nd January (which is also my birthday, please take note of this!) UWE Students' Union will be having Re-Freshers Fair which is the opportunity for students who start their course in January get a feel of what the students' experience is all about. This, of course, is open to all students, so keep the date in your diary, and see you there! (And bring cake!)

2. Glenside Freshers'

From Friday 11th January, to Friday 18th January, it's Glenside Freshers' Week where there will be a host of events for students starting in January to get involved in.

3. Accomodation Fair

UWE Students' Union is hosting a Accommodation Fair on Tuesday 5th February

The Students’ Union Advice Centre will be on hand to answer any of your housing queries, and will be able to check any contracts through, BEFORE you sign them, while answering any housing related questions you may have.

There will be representatives from UWE Accommodation Services, Avon Fire Service, Endsleigh, as well as the largest private accommodation providers in Bristol.

4. Students' Union elections

Yes. Soon it will be that time of year again! ELECTIONS.

Your opportunity to lead the Students' Union, and run for either a full time position or part time Officer

Watch the video, for 10 fantastic reasons, why you should consider running.

If you have any questions about elections, please get in touch! I couldn't recommend my role more, any of the roles within the Union. It will literally change your life.

That's all folks... MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

Students make the world go round

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 08:17:00 Z

So it's a little bit of a stressful time for Students' Unions at the moment, everything is happening at once, with little space to just stop, and take a nice long break. Being an Officer is much more than attending meetings and going to a few student events. There is so much that happens behind the scenes to put an event together, plan a campaign, or simply the general tasks of each day. And when you're despretely attempting to multi task, without dropping anything, can, and often, leads to stress, and loosing focus to what you're fighting for.

It's easy to forget why you're doing things for at times, making it even more important to stop, think, and refocus. This time of year could be described as the end of the honey moon period for Stuents' Union Officers...

Despite everything, for me, it's the students that help me refocus, and remind me what Students' Unions are for, and why we work so hard to make things better for you.

This post is titled "Students make the world go round" which may sound cheesy, but it's true. The Students' Union would be nothing without you. My job would be very dull without you, and with very little sense of purpose.

My role within the Students' Union is to inspire students, and give them the tools to make things happen. You, the students, are the ones who truly make the magic happen. I am always amazed, and beaming with pride, when I come to events organised by students. I predominantly look after the Networks (student groups related to faith, culture, and identity) but I like to keep an eye on everything that happens within the Students' Union, and I'm going to be honest, you are all amazing.

This post is to say a huge thank you to all the students who make the UWE Students' Union what it is. For your passion,commitment, dedication, and motivation to truly make a difference to students lives. Please keep going, you are achieving phenomenal things.

So yes, students do make the world go round. Or maybe just mine.

Either way, THANKYOU.

It's all about #demo2012

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 12:01:00 +0100

How is the £9,000 tuition fees treating you? Enjoying the lack of money? Juggling 3 jobs, and barely getting by? Student loan that doesn't cover your accommodation? High fees, but then the surprise of £100 of compulsory text books, materials, trips...? (the list is endless) - Feeling slightly ripped off over the value of university experience?

Angry? Annoyed? Frustrated? Or just pissed off?

UWE Students' Union believes that you have every right to be.

We are supporting the NUS National Demonstration and have provided you with the opportunity to hear from amazing speakers, who will be able to provide you with the background, context, and strong argument for #demo2012

Education is not, and should not be a luxury. Something that some can afford, and others not. Determining whether you apply for university should be on the basis of your ability and potential, not on how much dept you're willing to get yourself into.

UWE Students’ Union is there to promote, defend and extend the rights of students. It is our responsibility to champion a strong student voice at UWE with a vision to initiate change and enhance the student experience.

And this is exactly what we have set out to do.

If you want to make sure your voice is heard, that the standard of your education matches the amount your paying, then don't just grumble in your lecture, join us TOMORROW for the #demo2012 Open Forum

What does an activist look like? Well, it looks like you!

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 17:46:00 +0100

Black History Month, Mental Health, Sustainability, #demo2012 and changing the world

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 08:57:00 +0100

Happy October everyone!

Is it just me that is wondering where the summer has gone? Where September has gone actually. HELLO OCTOBER.

Hope you've been settling well into UWE, for the Freshers', and the returners.

October seems to be a very busy time of year, filled with lots of exciting campaigns in the Community & Welfare world. So I thought I would give you a little update:

1. Black History Month

UWE Students’ Union is proud to be celebrating Black History Month. UWE is extremely diverse and it is very important that we embrace our diverse community. October 1st marks the beginning of Black History Month. It is held every year to commemorate the history of Black communities and celebrate the enormous contribution that people of African, Arab, Asian and Caribbean heritage make to humanity.

There is a variety of events happening in Bristol throughout October, which you can find on the Bristol City Council Black History Month guide

UWE Students' Union has organised a Love Music Hate Racism gig happening on the 24th October. This event aims to bring people together through music, and celebrate our vibrant and multicultural community.

Join us for for the evening, and enjoy Bristol music talent: Bashema Hall, Dub Mafia, Crinkle Cuts, C-Froo - and loudly say that racism that no place in our city.

Tickets will be on sale soon, so make sure you get involved!

UWE have organised a Inclusive University Conference happening on the 24th October,

The aim of the conference is to provide UWE students and staff with useful insights and tools about relevant equality and diversity issues in Higher Education and UWE's commitments within our new Single Equality Scheme.

2. Mental Health Awareness Road Show

UWE Students' Union is committed to challenging stigma of mental health, and ensure that services are avaiable to support support students throughout their time at UWE. We are really excited to have teamed up with UWE Wellbeing Services to bring you the Mental Health Awareness Road Show, running from 8th-12th October.

We started this campaign last year, ran Mental Health Training for University staff and Students' Union staff, have signed the Time To Change pledge as a public display of our commitment to tackling mental health discrimination. As we know, pledges can only go so far. There needs to be a genuine committment to bring it to life, and this is exactly what has happened here at UWE. Working in partnership with UWE Wellbeing Services, we shall be visiting EACH campus of UWE, and spreading the message, making it even easier for you to get involved with the campaign.

Monday 8th October – Frenchay

Tuesday 9th October – Bower Ashton

Wednesday 10th October – St Matts

Thursday 11th October – Glenside

Friday 12th October – Hartpury

5 days. 5 campuses. 1 message.

Let's end mental health discrimination

3. Sustainability Week

UWE is committed be a sustainability University, and workes closely with UWE Students' Union to make this a reality for both staff and students. From the 15th-19th October, you shall be able to get involved with Sustainability Week which will bring a variety of events and activities to find out how you can play a part in looking after the future of the our planet, by little day to day changes. Highlights of the week include the launch of a new community garden, Sustrans lunch-time cycle ride, a bigger and better Farmers Market, a campus biodiversity walk and much more.

4. #demo2012

As you know #demo2012 is soon approaching and UWE Students' Union is preparing to mobilise students to make a stand for the future their education. As many of you know, tuition fees have gone up to £9,000 which has made education unaccessible for many. There may be alot of confusement about what the National Demonstration is all about, and therefore, we've put together an Open Forum on Thursday 25th October where you will have the opportunity to find out more about #demo2012 and hear from Kerry McCarthy, MP Bristol East and Rachel Wenstone : NUS Vice President Higher Education

We've already booked coaches for #demo2012 which you can buy your seat here

4. Changing the world

Ambitious title, maybe not unrealistic. Being a student is much more than doing your degree. There is so many things that you can get involved with through UWE Students' Union, from influencing your course through the Student Reps system, giving feedback on UWE accomodation and private accommodation through the Halls Reps system, getting involved in Sports, Societies, Networks, volunteering, Western Eye, Hub Radio and many more.

And what is brilliant, if there is something that you think that is missing at UWE Students' Union, you have the power to change it, make a difference, and change the world... (sort of)

So don't be that student who just sits in their lecture complaining that the course module makes no sense, or simply rant on the bus that your accommodation isn't to the standard you want, or vent at the bar as to where on earth your tuition fees are going. (Which to be fair, is probably a question on everybodys lips right now)... Get up, and do something about it. Firstly by coming to speak to us (UWE Students' Union) and let us know how we can help to improve your students' experience.

"Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time.

We are the ones we've been waiting for.

We are the change that we seek."

Barack Obama

Student feedback? Bug bears? Things you love? Something you want to change? GET IN TOUCH

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - 0117 3282555

Twitter: louise_gw

"If you inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more,

you are a leader" - John Quincy Adams

Summer Update

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:06:00 +0100

Hello Hello,

I hope everyone is having a good summer, wherever you may be, and making the most of London 2012 Olympics and the Paralympics. The summer holidays in Students' is far from days at the beach and vacations, as we are very busy planning, and getting things ready for September 2012.

So what exactly have I been up to this summer?

June 2012

Handover Training - Meet your new Students' Union Representatives

We started our Handover training mid June, where the old Officers pass on all the knowledge to the new Officer team. Myself and Olly Reid, Vice President Education are both returning Officers (lucky enough to have been re-elected), and welcomed Nina Gizzie; Vice President Sports, Annie Turner; Vice President Societies & Communications, and Emmanuelle Okon; Students' Union President.

We have undergone extensive training, from working as a team, learning about the Union, finance, governance, and many more. The summer is an ideal time to start looking into all our election manifesto pledges, and see how we can deliver them for you, the students.

The Students' Union Executive are there to represent you throughout the year, and make sure you have the best student experience as possible. The team compromises of 5 full time Presidents, and 10 part time Officers, all passionate about the Students' Union.

Inspiring a generation : London 2012

London 2012 is all about inspiring a generation. UWE had their very own Olympic athletes, London 2012 torchbearers, and were the host for the Kenyan Olympic, and Paralympic Team.

I was lucky to be part of London 2012, and be selected as one of the Olympic Torchbearers, and as part of that, I returned to my former school, and another local primary school, to deliver a talk at their assembly, all about reaching your goals, and not giving up when things get difficult.

If London 2012 teaches you anything, is that dreams do and can come true. It's important to have aspirations, goals, know where you want to be in life.

London 2012 teaches us that success doesn't materialise overnight, that it takes committement and strength.

Though we're not all inspiring athletes, we can take the phylosophy behind London 2012, and aspire to be the best that we can be.

July 2012

UNITE

Myself and Vicki Wallace: UWE SU Community & Welfare Officer have had meetings with UNITE, and working together to get things ready for moving day, and the year ahead. UWE Students' Union shall be present over 'Moving In' time to welcome you, and give you helpful advice to settling in, and making the most of living in the city centre of Bristol.

Time To Change : Speaking Out Training

I am extremely passionate on working to challenge mental health discrimination, and have been heavily involved with Time To Change which is a leading charity who work to challenge mental health discrimination. As one the organisations champions I was able to take part in their Speaking Out Training, which is a training designed to equip people with experience of mental health problems with the skills, information and confidence to speak publicly about their experiences of mental ill-health and why a campaign to break the stigma is important.

This was a very empowering day, and I am looking forward to continuing the Mental Health Campaign here at UWE.

Fees Fees Fees - Is it about the money money money?

With the rise in tuition fees, this has pushed both the University and the Students' Union to re-evaluate what we deliver for students who come to UWE. We have had several meetings with the Vice Chancellor Team and Senior Managers of the University to discuss what the rise of tuition fees will mean for UWE students. Students will, quite rightfully, be demanding more out of their education, and we have been working tirelessly throughout the summer to ensure that what we deliever is to a high standard, and students feel empowered to take an active role in shaping their education.

Recently UWE has provided a massive win for students, by investing £13m to support students who are missing out on education. Education should be accessible for everyone, whatever background they are from. This support includes some £9m in bursaries which provide students with direct support whilst at university. This is one of the largest investments according to the Office for Fair Access (OFFA), which has just announced its 2013-14 access agreements.

John Rushforth, Deputy Vice-Chancellor commented, “UWE has been in the vanguard of offering bursaries rather than fee waivers since they allow the University to support students whilst at university. Living costs rather than concern about fees, which are deferred until after graduation, are still one of biggest hurdles to higher education. Many universities this year have switched more to direct bursaries for students rather than offering fee waivers because of this.”

** Helpful tip *** Money doesn't grow on trees, so have a read of UWE's guide to managing your money: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/managingyourmoney.aspx

Freshers' Week + Freshers' Fair

So who has recieved their Freshers' Guide in post? This is basically your guide to university life, and an insight to everything that UWE Students' Union has to offer.

For all the Freshers' I hope you're excited about moving to Bristol. University is really what you make of it. There is not one set of 'student experience'. UWE and UWE Students' Union have a wide variety of things that you can get involved in, that will ensure that your student journey is full of opportunities.

Make sure you come and say hello at UWE Students' Union Freshers' Fair on Friday 21st September, and get involved with Freshers' Week.

Bristol Pride

Bristol Pride is a celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, organised by the LGBT community for the people of the South West.UWE was one of the main sponsors of Bristol Pride showing a strong commitment and support to equality and diversity.

UWE Students' was at Bristol Pride, along with UWE LGBT Network to proudly support this important community event.

August 2012

Inspiration 4 Ability

UWE hosted an Inspiration 4 Ability, which was a 2 day event bringing together inspiration indivuals who had overcome challenges dispite their disabilities. I had the honour of meeting Katie Piper and Simon Weston

Mental Health Awareness RoadShow

5 days. 5 campuses. 1 message. Let's end mental health discrimination

Last year, UWE Students' Union signed the Time To Change pledge to show our public display of our commitment to tackling mental health discrimination.

This year, we are continuing this campaign, and have organised a Mental Health Awareness Road Show, running from the Monday 8th- Friday 12th October.

We are organising this in partnership with UWE Wellbeing Services and shall be travelling to each UWE campus to spread the campaign, and get students on board to end mental health discrimination.

Monday – Frenchay

Tuesday – Bower Ashton

Wednesday – St Matts

Thursday – Glenside

Friday – Hartpury

Want to get involved?

If you're signed up to UWE Job Shop you've probably picked up for students to volunteer to take part in the campaign. UWE Students' Union is proud to be able to lead such an important campaign, though we can't successful make a large impact on each campus without your help. Please have a look at the UWE Students' Union note for volunteers.

There are several ways that you can make a difference with this campaign:

1. Take part in the Road Show, and volunteer a few hours of your time, to spread the message to end mental health discrimination. The campaign is coming to each campus, making it even easier for you to get involved.

2. Take part in the Mental Health Awareness video and share how you, or those closest to you have been affected by mental health. There is an option to participate in this film anonymously. This video will be viewed widely, as we are seeking to create an empowering platform for students to be able to talk more openly about mental health, and raise awareness of where you can get help and support.

3. Spread the message about this campaign. Get your friends involved. Join the Facebook page

4. Any questions? Email vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk

Black History Month : Love Music Hate Racism gig

We are really excited to be getting involved with Black History Month, and celebrate the diversity of the UWE community. We have organised a Love Music Hate Racism gig, on Wednesday 24th October, at UWE Students' Union Red Bar. UWE Students’ Union is committed to improving our work within equality and diversity. We recognise that students at UWE come from diverse backgrounds, different faiths, and different cultures. Every year, we welcome students from over 140 countries worldwide, making UWE very unique for its international and intercultural community.

Our music is living testimony to the fact that cultures can and do mix. It unites us and gives us strength, and offers a vibrant celebration of our multicultural and multiracial society.

Join us for for the evening, and enjoy Bristol music talent: Bashema Hall, Dub Mafia, Crinkle Cuts, C-Froo - and loudly say that racism that no place in our city.

Love Music. Hate Racism

NUS National Demonstration against fees and cuts to higher education

As you may have heard, the National Union of Students (NUS) have called a National Demonstration on 21st November against the goverments cuts to higher education, and how it will detrementaly affect students opportunities to accessing education.

UWE Students' Union shall be supprting the Demo in November, and mobilising students to engage with the demo.

We are organised an Open Forum on Tuesday 25th October, as an opportunity for students to find out more about the National Demo, and get all their questions answered.

You will have the opportunitiy to hear from Rachel Wenstone; NUS Vice President Higher Education, Kerry Mc Carthy; Labour MP for Bristol East, and students from University of Bristol and UWE.

NUS have organised an event tailored for Students' Union Officers, on how best to lead on the Demo : Road to the Demo 2012 where Nina Gizzie; VP Sports, and Annabellle Turner; VP Societies and Communications shall be attending, and we will communicating the knowledge learnt after the event.

Follow the conversation on twitter: #demo2012 @nusUK

Keep in touch with UWE Students' Union

Louise Goux-Wirth
Vice President Community & Welfare - UWE Students' Union
Coldharbour Lane - Frenchay - Bristol - BS161QY

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk

Phone: 0117 3282555

Twitter: @louise_gw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louise.gouxwirth

Students' Union twitter: @uwesu

Students' Union Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uwesu

UWE Freshers' Twitter: @UWE_Freshers

UWE Freshers' Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uweFreshers

Bristol Pride 2012

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:53:00 +0100

We Are Proud

UWE Students' Union is extremely proud to be getting involved with Bristol Pride this Saturday. http://www.wearefest.com/

The first Pride was in the UK in 1972, and it started as a prtotest. The parades and marches that we see now come from the protest marches of the first prides. LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans) people and their friends marched because it was a commonplace for people to think that LGBT people shouldn't openly walk down the street, so in protest, they did.

The first prides were held as a commemorations of the Stonewall Rights that happened in 1969, in New York. Prides are a commemorations of those riots, which helped create an LGBT movement. http://www.stonewall.org.uk/

Bristol Pride 2012

It is important that this weekend, when we join together for Bristol Pride, that we remember the politics behind Pride.

Pride plays a crucial part in bringing together diverse communities together. Though LGBT equality may have come a long way, in many countries around the world, people are strongly discriminated against, and are victims of homophobic attacks, just because of who they love.

This Saturday, various communities shall be joining together in Bristol to highlight the need to continue campaigning on LGBT equality, and stand in solidarity against challenging homophobia and discrimination.

UWE Students' Union + Bristol Pride

UWE Students' Union shall be proudly joining the Bristol Pride march with thousands of other people, and we would really like to see as many people there. http://www.wearefest.com/#pride-parade We shall be meeting at 11am at Berkeley Square (top of the park street) and parade around the Triangle, along Park Row and down Park Street to College Green.

If you wish you meet and march with the UWE / UWE Students' Union banner, please get in touch, and email vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk

UWE + Bristol Pride

UWE works very closely in supporting that Bristol Pride happens. This year, like last year, UWE is one of the key sponsors of Bristol Pride. Equality and Diversity plays a focal point in UWE's strategic aims, ensuring that both staff and students have a positive experience.

UWE Students' Union : It Gets Better Project

Last February, UWE Students' Union actively got involved in celebrating LGBT History Month. The Students' Union put together a short video, that ties in a bigger national campaign, "It Gets Better" which aims to send a positive message to individuals who may be suffering from homophobic discrimination, that it does get better. The core of the campaign has inspired thousands to use their personal experiences and give a message of hope for others. The LGBT Student Network put together an excellent Love Music Hate Homophobia gig, which brought together members of the community to loudly say that homophobia had no place in Bristol, nor anywhere else.

“Be who you areand say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”- Dr Seuss

UWE Students' Union Future Flames

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 14:48:00 +0100

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader."

John Quincy Adams

Students' Unions play a pivoting role in empowering students to make change, and be leaders within their local and wider community. This ranges from providing opportunities of becoming a Student Rep on your course, being part of Sport club, Societies, Network, the hundreds of volunteering activities, and many more.

As it's coming to the end of the academic year, and many of you are finishing off exams, courseworks, or some lucky ones are packing to head back home for the summer... It is a good time to look back on the year you've had, and take in how much a year changes people.

This year, It has been such an honour to be able to support all the Networks to become amazing leaders within their community. Networks have grown from strength to strength, and I know next year will simply be even better.

I couldn't be more proud of all the work that Networks do. My job would be extremely dull without all of you around!

UWE Olympic Future Flames

Many of you may be aware of the Olympics coming up very shortly. And many of you may have gone to see the Olympic torch pass through your town. But do you know what all the fuss is about? There has been 8000 "Olympic Future Flames" chosen, for various of reasons, selected for being "ordinary people doing extraordinary things" - We are very lucky here at UWE to have 4 people chosen to carry the Olympic Torch, and you can read about their stories below.

There's a future flame in all of us

It was an extreme honour to have been selected as one of the 8000 Olympic Torch Bearers. I wish I could do a Mean Girls moment, and share the Olympic torch with every student, who have inspired me along the way.

I am very lucky to have the job that I have now, though it definately didn't just land on my lap. I ran two unsuccessful Students' Union elections before successfully winning the election in 2011, and then being re-elected in 2012. The important thing is not giving up, and keep yourself focused on where you wish to be.

Whilst at University, there are various barriers that may come in our way, making our journey through our studies trickier than expected. It's essential that you make the most of the opportunties that you have an offer, and most importantly to not give up.

"Life is too short to wake up with in the morning with regrets, so love the people who treat you right, forget the ones who don't, and believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it."

Inclusive Sports & Societies

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:52:00 +0100

Equality and Diversity. It's everyones' business

Last week I took part in the Sports and Socities Training, and talked to 300 committee members on how they can be inclusive sports and Socities. When I decided to re-run for Vice Presdient Community & Welfare, I knew it was because there was still so much I wanted to do with the role, and so much potential to push it to the next level. Brilliant foundations have been made with the work with the Networks, so many students empowered to champion equality and diversity.

I am very keen to push it to the next level, through spending the forthcomming year working more closely with Sports and Socities, to ensure they are inclusive in their approach and welcoming to all students. Often it is easy to see equality and diversity as in insular issue, for the Vice Present Welfare and the liberation related Networks to embrace. Yet, equality and diversity is very much everyones issue. Everyones responsibility.

Below is the presentation that was delievered at the Sports and Societies training:

UWE Students' Union on Prezi

iDID : Independance and Diversity in Disability

I was really excited to be able to lead the training alongside a very inspiring student who works with iDID.

iDID is an organisation that aims at improving physical and psychological health for people with disabilities or mental illness. The are passionate about accessibility and equality in the adventure industry and their mission is to support both indiciduals and providers to create equal opportunties for people with disabilities in the adventure industry. (They define extreme / adventure sports as activities such as: Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Snowsports, Skate / boarding, Wake-boarding and Surfing)

For more information, please follow the website (under construction): http://www.ididadventure.co.uk/ / or their facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/iDID.online

Next year, working very closely with iDID, and the Sports & Socities, I shall be looking into putting together action plans into how we can make the idea of inclusive sports and socities a reality.

I strongly believe that this will have huge benefits for students, and will increase participation in the activities that we offer. It is essential that as an organisation we go beyond the policies, and explore how this echoes to the individuals it impacts.

If you would to talk through any ideas of campaigns, or for general queries, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Remember, UWE Students' Union is here to represent you.

Students' Unions' and the Equality Act

Students' Unions have specific responsibilties under the Act, and have a role to support their partner intitution in meeting their duties under the legislation. UWE has a dedicated Equality & Diversity Unit, which work hard to represent both staff and students to ensure that everyone is treated fairly, and able to thrive to their potential whilst either studying, or working here. In reflection of this, UWE Students' Union has had a long lasting committment to equal opportunities and celebrating the diversity of our membership. This year, UWE Students' Union has taken a strong, and progressive step in being vocal in championing equality and diversity, and though we've come a long way, there is still alot more work to do.

UWE Student's Union adheres to a Safe Space Policy, and does not tolerate any form of dicrimination. Students' clubs and societies are central to the personal and social development of students and are part of the educational purpose of Students' Unions. This is why it's so crucial, that we ensure that every student has equal opportunities to take part, and get involved.

NUS LGBT : Out In Sport campaign

This year NUS LGBT Campaign (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) lead an "Out In Sport" campaigs, as part of their committment to tackle homophobia and transphobia in Sport. The campaign aimed to understand the sporting experience of lesbian, gay, bi, and trans students in further and higher education, whilst supporting unions and institutions in making sport more inclusive.

Next year, UWE Students' Union is looking to do the same, working closely with the LGBT Network, and the Vice President Sports, and lead on strong campaign during LGBT History Month, which I hope you'll be getting involved with.

For further about the campaign, please follow this link: http://www.nus.org.uk/en/campaigns/lgbt/nus-lgbt-launches-out-in-sport-campaign/

The future looks bright. The future looks progressive

Next year, I shall be working more closely with the Sports & Socities, to explore how they can get more involved in the campaigns through the Community & Welffare agenda of UWESU. There are various little things that can be done, from ensuring that you hold your meetings in accessible venues, to getting involved in liberation campaigns. I am very keen to encourage Sports and Socities to look into how they can be campaigning groups, and understand the benefit that this may have to their members, and the developement of their group. For example, how brilliant would it be to see the Sport teams work with the Disability Awareness Network, and to look into how accessible their club is, and get involved in challenging perception of disabled students involved in Sports.

I am really excited about next year, and believe that inclusive sports and socities is such an important campaign for UWE Student's Union to lead. If you are part of a Sport or Socitiety, and would like to discuss further how you can get involved, please don't hesitate to get touch. I am around all summer (no such this as summer holiday when you're a Sabbatical Officer!) and really want to hear from you.

Obviously you know about the increase in fees shortly being put into place, and in light of this, now more than ever, it is emparitive for Students' Unions to deliver more, and ensure they are supporting students effectively. Inclusion in Sports is where there is a gap at UWE Students' Union, and this is why next year, I am excited to be tackle this issue head on, through a fun, engaging way.

Louise Goux-Wirth : UWE Students' Union Vice President Community and Welfare

vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk - Tel: 01173282555

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

Wed, 16 May 2012 15:14:00 +0100

Tomorrow is International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (also known as IDAHO). Across the the world, thousands of people will come together and reaffirm committment to ending the persecution that LGBT communities and individuals face today. 17th May is the date of IDAHO as it was on this date in 1991 that the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from thier list of mental disorders. The decision to remove homosexuality from this list is part of a broad campaign to both decriminalise homosexuality and to achieve civil rights for LGBT communities.

Here at UWE, we are proud to be taking part in marking this extremely important day. Tomorrow, we shall be exploring what it is like to be LGBT and what has changed over the years for the LGBT people. Everyone is welcome for iCon lunch before the event. The lunch begins at 12:30pm, with speakers commencing at 2pm. For more information please see the UWE events diary here : http://info.uwe.ac.uk/events/event.aspx?id=13234

This year, UWE Students' Union has works extremely hard at championing equality and diversity, and we are proud of our diverse membership. We have worked in collaboration with various campaigns with the University, to create a welcoming and inclusive enviroment for all students.

In February, UWE Students' Union LGBT Student Network organised a Love Music Hate Homophobia gig, which was a huge success. The event welcomed staff, students, and members of the local community to challenge any form of homophobic discrimination.

UWE Students' Union adheres to a Safe Space Policy and an Equal Opportunity Policy. However, we know that things may not always go right, and we welcome feedback, from students.

If you wish have been a victim of homophobic or transphobic abuse / discrimination, please get in touch with:

UWE Equality and Diversity Unit : equalityanddiversityunit@uwe.ac.uk

If an incident occured in the Students' Union bar / fascilities, please let us know: http://www.uwesu.org/union/contact-us/feedback/

UWE Students' Union took part in the "It Gets Better" campaign, and this video was launched during LGBT History Month. The "It Gets Better" campaign was first established in America, in aim to send a positive message to individuals who suffer homophobic discrimination, with a message that It Gets Better. The feedback from students about seeing their Students' Union leading so strongly on this campaign was extremely positive, so I hope that if you haven't seen it already, you'll enjoy it.

More information on the campaign can be found here: http://www.itgetsbetter.org/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1MEXqwBhGw

NUS LGBT Conference 2012

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:37:00 +0100

Last weekend, myself and 2 delegates from UWE Students' Union travelled up to Manchester to attend the NUS LGBT Conference 2012. The NUS LGBT Campaign is part of the National Union of Students, and represents Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students. Conference has three main purposes: these are to elect the LGBT Officers and committees, pass policy, and hold officers and committee to account. Delegates have the opportunity to set the direction of the NUS LGBT Campaign for the forthcoming year, through passing policy. In short, being attending NUS Conferences as a representative from your Students' Union is quite an exciting opportuntiy.

I am really glad I was able to take students who were so keen to learn more about the NUS LGBT Campaign, and came back inspired, and energised to make change. This, for me, is what NUS Conferences is all about.

Outside of sabb life (representing you as Vice-President Community & Welfare) I am also part of the NUS Black Students Campaign (another part of NUS) as part of the committee; as the LGBT Womens' Representative (Job Share). These roles are very exciting, and have exposed me to new people, politcs, and a stronger desire to improve the lives of students. My passion in politics started with the LGBT Campaign, when in my 2nd year of University, I was elected as the Vice President of UWE LGBT Society, which shaped the very start of my journey into activism.

Same Sex Marriage

The workshop that drew me in the most was from the Equal Marriage campaign, which was lead strongly by the NUS LGBT Scotland Campaign. The Equal Marriage campaign was established in 2008 and is coordinated by the Equality Network, a registered Scottish charity. Equal Marriage is a national campaign to lift the discriminatory ban on same-sex marriage and mixed-sex civil partnership in Scotland, and aims to do the following:

1. Change the law to allow same-sex couples to get married

2. End the requirement that transgender people divorce before attaining Gender Recognition

3. Enable mixed-sex couples to register a civil partnership

The concept that I will not be able to marry at a later date, just because I chose to not fall in love with a man, is quite frankly frustrating. The strong opposition from some members of the society against same sex marriage, makes no sense. Love is love. So why do some politicians chose to get in the way of deciding who we are and are not allowed to fall in love with?

When figureheads of society come out with statements such as "gay marriage undermines the future of humanity" just makes me angry. Marriage is about love, and should not be about sex. What will be the consequence if same sex couples are about to marry? Well, quite simply, same sex couples will marry.

"Love between gay people and straight people is exactly the same, they have the same needs and desires. I have neighbours who have been together for 19 years, but they are waiting to have a marriage, they don't want a civil partnership : because they don't want 2nd best. They want equal rights and dignity because their love deserves equality rights and dignity." Ross Wright - Humanist Society of Scotland

Out in Sport

Part of the prioty campaign of the NUS LGBT Campaign is combating homophobia and transphobia in Sport. This was a key focus at Conference. The campaign aims to understand the sporting experience of lesbian, gay, bi and trans students in further education and higher education whilst supporting unions ans institutions in making sport more inclusive for all. LGBT students may encounter barriers in participation in sports. NUS are very keen to gather students experience, and therefore UWE Students' Union would like to ask you to fill out the Out In Sport survey (link below).

As part of my re-election manifesto, I said that I would seek to build strong links with sports clubs and societies, to ensure that they are inclusive for all students. I am currently putting together a a workshop that shall be delivered in September to all the committee members of Sports and Societies of UWESU, which is very exciting!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/out_in_sport

Hate Crime

"Have you ever been beaten up for being straight?"

This is one of the lines that really struck out to me from Conference. Hate crime is defined as when individuals act out of hostility, prejudice or hatred towards another individual. NUS carried out an indepth Hate Crime report, looking into the extent and nature of hate incidents amongst students nationwide in June 2010, as part of a larger project funded by the Home Office to reduce student victimisation. The results of the report were quite concerning. 40% of respondants had been subject to at least one form of anti-social behaviour or crime whilst studying at their institution. Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) of hate incidents – nine per cent of all incidents reported – were believed to have been motivated by a prejudice against the victim’s real or perceived sexual orientation. 31 per cent of Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual (LGB) students surveyed experienced at least one hate incident related to their sexual orientation, as compared to two per cent of heterosexual respondents. Gay students were most likely to be targeted to hate crime, with 43 per cent of respondents stating they had beena victim, compared to 40 per cent of lesbians and 19 per cent of bisexual students.

UWE Students' Union adheres to a Safe Space Policy as we believe that every student has the right to study and enjoy their time at university withouth fear of being discriminated against for who they are. We urge students to report any incidence which they feel they have been left feeling vulnerable or at risk to members of staff, or the university, so it can be dealt with as affectively as possible.

http://www.nus.org.uk/Global/NUS_HateCrimeReport_web.pdf

UWE Students' Union and LGBT equality

This year I am extremely proud to have been able to champion LGBT equality through the Students' Union. As an elected full time officer, I believe that I am in an ideal position to be a strong advocate for students. I percieved Students' Union to be have the power the voice of the voiceless in many areas. I was very excited when this banner (below) was designed to be put on the webpage of the Students' Union, because I truly am proud to be representing such a diverse student body here at UWE. Working with the LGBT Student Network, a variety of events were put together, from talks, to coffee meetings, discussions of gender neutral toilets, and one very exciting Love Music Hate Homophobia gig. The LGBT Student Network have truly been a driving force in making change this year, and I forever grateful for all their hard work and dedication.

UWE Students' Union has come a long way in terms of championing equality and diversity, and I excited to see what more the next year will bring. If you do wish to join the LGBT Student Network, please email: outuwe@live.co.uk

UWE Students' Union : It Gets Better Project

This year, UWE Students' Union got involved with a National campaign, "It Gets Better" which first established in America, in aim to send a positive message to individuals who suffer homophobic discrimination. The feedback from students about seeing their Students' Union leading on this campaign was extremely positive, so I hope that if you haven't seen it yet, you'll enjoy.

More information on the campaign can be found here: http://www.itgetsbetter.org/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1MEXqwBhGw

Come Clean On Student Funding

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:33:00 +0100

Following the NUS (National Union of Students) Come Clean campaign that was launched a few weeks ago, UWE Students' Union has started to look into the hidden course cost students face when coming to university. With the cost of education rising, it's clear that every penny counts, and students will be more exigent into what exactly they are getting for their money.

UWE Students' Union asked the questions to students about what 'hidden costs' they have encountered, beyond the £3,290 of tuition fees. This is the question on every ones lips in the education sector. When the Goverment claims to wish to to put students 'at the heart of the system' it is perplexing as to why they are now so viciously cutting thousands of students out of Higher Education, by putting in place the new fee structure.

"We want to see more investement, greater diversity and less centralised control. But in return, we want the sector to become more accountable to students, as well as to the taxpayers." Rt Hon Vince Cable MP & Rt Hon David Willet MP, Students at the Heart of the System, June 2011

It is very clear, that trebling the fees to £9000 is definately doing something wrong. Dispite David Willetts claiming that his reform will be a better deal for students, in reality, students are being aked to pay more, for the same, or in some circumstances, for less.

Students across the UK are being forced to cough up cash over above and beyond their tuition fees to pay for materials and activisities that are essential to their study. Students are having to decide whether to go even further into hardship, or pay for the printing, textiles, gym costs, graduation fees, equipment and other costs they weren't aware they would have to incur when they signed up for their courses.

During the previous Community and Welfare Committee meeting, which I chair, I gained feedback from members about what hidden course cost they had encountered whislt being at University.

· Bus Passes (Wessex Red & First Buses) – There is a perception amongst students that the annual and monthly bus passes for the buses are expensive and as the majority of the students don’t live on campus or have access to their own transport they forced to use public transport.

· Travel Expenses (Placements) – Students who have to study out on placement often incur significant transport costs to placements and the travel expenses/fuel mileage rates are quite low. An issue made worse in recent months with rising petrol prices.

· Placement Uniforms/Laboratory Coats – Students have reported that they often have to incur extra costs on their course as they have to buy placement uniforms and laboratory coats.

· Module Readers – Students on some courses have to purchase compulsory module readers for their course rather than finding the texts in the library.

· Arts & Graphics Supplies – Students who study art and graphics based courses often incur extra costs on top of their tuition fees to pay for materials that are essential for their course.

· Print Outs – The cost of printing is expensive in the library and the University.

· General Disability Screening – Students have to pay for their own disability screening tests.

· Study Abroad Placements – Students who go to study abroad for a year/term don’t get enough clear information about what costs are recoverable.

This is only a short example of some of the hidden costs that students here at UWE face, costs that most students don't factor in prior to coming to university.

When the cost of University is so high, it's shocking, and quite frankly unfair of all the 'hidden costs' that creap up on you.

This is why UWE Students' Union is joining in the NUS priority campaign, and asking UWE to "Come Clean on Student Funding". I am very keen to get more feedback from students from students about their experiences; are you doing a Nursing degree, and didn't know about the cost of placement? On an Education Studies degree, and arrived being told about a massive reading list of books to buy? Doing a Forensic Degree, and turns out that that you have to get a lab coat?

All these costs gradually mount up, to much more than you had bargained for.

NUS have organised a national lobby of parliament on HE funding on Wednesday 18th April. This will be followed by an outdoor rally at the Rootstein Hopkins Parade Ground, Chelsea College of Art & Design (5mins walk from Westminster) from 4:30pm-5:30pm

If you would like to get involved with this, or want to share what your "Hidden Course Costs" are, please get in touch with: vpcommunityandwelfare@uwe.ac.uk

The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:25:00 Z

Hello :)

Welcome back to my blogs! I had taken a bit of a break due to holidays / elections / and mildly loosing track of time, so apologies for the lack of updates. Regardless, LOTS has been happening, and I am still as excited and enjoying my role, as your Vice President Community and Welfare.

This blog is a little bit different to my normal ones, as I have handed over to a UWE student. Why? Because the work that students do, is what makes my job so diverse, so exciting, and so unique.

I like hearing news of what students have done, and this testimony just reminded me why I do my job. I see my role within the Students' Union to provide opportunities, inspire students, and ensure that they have the best students' experience as possible. I strongly encourage students to get involved with opportunities outside of their studies, as those experiences truly shape and make you into a well rounded individual. I am extremely proud to give the platform to a UWE student for this blog update, and I hope that you can get get equally inspired.

"The function of leaders is to produce more leaders, not more followers" - Ralph Nader

"So much has changed in the last year, and it all started with one 3 day leadership course...

I went through my first and second years at University as a very shy student to those who didn’t know me well. In many ways, I still come across as shy to some people (or at least I think I do, other people say otherwise...) but things have changed massively in the past year and I’m no longer the person with zero confidence who doesn’t get involved in things!

It all changed when I went on a leadership course last July. This was a course ran specifically for students with disabilities and had Louise not encouraged me to go on it I wouldn’t have, probably because I would have thought it wasn’t for me. As I said, I wasn’t exactly brimming with confidence and certainly didn’t believe I could be a leader.

So on this course I went. I can sum it up in four words: it changed my life. In more ways than I ever could have imagined it would. For a start it gave my confidence the boost it needed. I met some of the most amazing people who made me feel that my input and my own opinion DID matter. Everyone was so supportive of each other that over the three days I became much more confident to speak out and express my own opinion. By the end I even volunteered to present some group work to everyone, something I would never have done beforehand.

I met such a diverse range of people that taught me how important it is for everyone in a group to participate to get the best possible outcome and that made me realise that my input was needed too. This is one of the keys to effective leadership and an extremely valuable lesson to learn because if you have a diverse range of abilities, backgrounds and experiences you have a huge pool of knowledge to work from and as they say, knowledge is power. With knowledge you can lead. You can make things happen!

I was enthused when I graduated from the Frontrunner course. I quickly got heavily involved in setting up a new SIFE team at UWE, a society that sets up projects in local communities to give them opportunities to help themselves. For the first time I believed that I could lead something regardless of my disability and I could earn the respect of others - I only had to put myself out there! I became the Finance Director of the society and got to work with a team of equally motivated people to make a change in local communities, to lead that change.

I never expected to be doing what I am now though. Since graduating from the leadership course I have been working closely with two other graduates to make a BIG difference to society. We’re setting up a brand new non profit organisation to make adventure sports more accessible for people with disabilities. It’s a huge challenge, and one I’m very excited about (not least because I get to try out all the sports...). We’re leading a change in society, not only to improve opportunities for people with disabilities but to change the way that society sees us, to show them what we’re capable of.

Through setting up iDID (Independence and Diversity in Disability) I’ve really built on the skills and knowledge I gained from the course and I’m challenging myself to do more. I’m getting involved with some of the UWE sports societies and I’m looking forward to doing more next year. I would have found this a daunting prospect a year ago and I wouldn’t have been able to do it, but now I know I can do it and I can make a difference for students with disabilities at UWE by making these sports more accessible to them.

The last year has taught me this: to lead you need to push yourself beyond what you think you’re capable of. If you’re passionate enough you will. And as soon as you do you wouldn’t believe the opportunities that are waiting for you! If there is one thing I’ve learnt since attending the leadership course, it’s that you NEVER know what’s just around the corner...

"Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek" - Barack Obama

Sabb on holiday

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:47:00 Z

Out of Office message : Back on the 21st February

(don't cry too much whilst I'm away)

Good news! I am going on holiday, a proper full blown holiday. And how am I excited. This job definately isn't easy. But definately the best job ever. But like everything, getting a break is healthy, and essential.

But because I am going to be away for some time, thought I would update on things that are happening in my absense, and what has happened recently.

UWE Students' Union : Welfare Special

This was a very positive event that happened on the 8th February, as part of a broader campaign on mental health and wellbeing. Not the easiest subjuect to tackle full on, but one that is so crucial to both staff and students. We were greeted by the Director of Time To Change, which is an organisation that works tirelessly to end mental health discrimination. This in itself was a huge honour and privelege to have someone so passionate about welfare come to UWE. We also had Pete Mercer, NUS Vice President Welfare, Ron Ritchie : UWE Pro-Vice Chancellor, UWE Human Resourses, and UWE Disability Services. Mental health is such an important topic, and create effective change, it is essential that you have the support from the main people in the organisation who can help you truly make things happen

UWE Disability Awareness Week (13th-17th February)

UWE Students' Union : Disability Awareness Network have organised a range of events, and it would be brilliant to have as many people involved. The Network works to bring a voice to UWE on student issues that effect people with disabilities, and also challenging an

Monday - Paralympic Sports (Centre for Sports) 1pm-4pm

Tuesday - Blind Football (St Matts)

Wednesday - Stall at Bower Ashton

Thursday - DAN Social (Glenside) 7pm

Friday - DAN Conference (Frenchay) 2D67 5pm-8pm

For more information, contact the Network through this page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/111672015537556/

Sexual Health Awareness Fortnight (6th-19th February)

The UWE Sexual Health fortnight will give you the opportunity to find out more information regarding Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), practicing safe sex and where Sexual Health clinics can be found in Bristol.

There will also be the opportunity to get a free Chlamydia testing kit from the Centre for Sport, UWE Health Centre, and Red Bar (15 February only). All you need to do is follow the instructions inside the pack and return it to the UWE Health Centre, 23 Carroll Court, Frenchay.

All completed and returned paperwork with tests will be enteredt into a prize draw to win £50 Sainsbury's vouchers. Free condoms willbe available througout the fortnight from UWE Health Centre. Other freebies including pants and socks will be available from Red Bar on 15th February only.

UWE Students' Union : Christian Union Week (13th-17th February)

Christian Union Network have put together a brilliant set of events to get people talking about Jesus, and share what they do. Highlight of it a "TextAToastie" where you can a toastie delivered to you on campus, and ask them anything about God. Nice to see peopel gettign creative about how they share their beliefs. If you have any questions, get in touch by emailing: cu@marks.me

UWE Students' Union : LGBT History Month

UWE Students' Union is proud to be celebrating LGBT History Month. Have a look at the events organised on the OUT UWE Facebook page or the UWESU webpage. Recently, UWE was ranked 77th in the Stonewall Index - The definate list of Britain's most gay-friendly employers. UWE works hard to create an inclusive and welcoming working enviroment both both staff and students.

There is a range of events that you can get involved with throughout the month - all information via UWE Students' Union page.

UWE Students' Union got involved with the "It Gets Better" project, which seeks to send out a positive message to individuals that may be suffering from homophobic bullying, and saying "It Gets Better"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=B1MEXqwBhGw

UWE Students' Union : RAG Week

This is definately something for you to get involved with. RAG Week! A whole week of fundraising shenanigans all in aid of 4 chosen UWESU charities for this academic year. There is LOADS happening this year, from quiz nights, bake sales, pub crawl, and "sauce a sabb"

So dig deep and give generously!

UWE Students' Union : Elections 2012

Last and definately not least.... ELECTIONS. Have you ever thought that you could do better than the current Presidents? Passionate about your campus and think it should have better representation? Then you should definately look into running in the elections. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to truly change and impact on how your University is run.

Hoenstly speaking, when I first started the job, it all seemed like a blur for a good 3 months. This job is not easy. Days are long, and the role is demanding. But it is the best job ever. Never ever ever would you be able to be one of the people who the Vice Chancellor turns up to your event, or says personal thank you for the hard work that you do. If you want to have an easy year, definately don't run for a sabbatical role. It's essential to run for the right reasons, because you want to make a difference, change students lives, and all that.

Deadline for applications close on the 23rd February, make sure you don't forget.

What does a leader look like? Well, it looks like you.