agenda - brunel students · 1 agenda student assembly (accountability) meeting: sa01 date: tuesday...

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AGENDA

Student Assembly (Accountability) Meeting: SA01 Date: Tuesday 11th of October 2016, Howell 001, 18:00-20:00

1. Attendance and Apologies

2. Minutes of the Previous Meeting – Thursday 14th April 2016

3. Matters Arising

4. Motions of commendation or censure

5. Reports

6. Any Other Business

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UBS STUDENT ASSEMBLY MINUTES Student Assembly meeting no.1 Date: Thursday 14th April 2016, LECT 068, 19:00-21:00

1. Attendance and Apologies Present:

President Ali Milani

Vice President Student Activities Michael Darlow

Vice President College (CBASS) Yousef Mohamed

Vice President College (CEDPS) Marcus Stein

Vice President College (CHLS) Aaron Lowman

Vice President Postgraduate Students Pauldy Otermans

Chair Of Student Assembly Yohanna Sallberg

Student Assembly Vice Chair George Hudson

Environmental Chair Mehvish Maghribi

International Students Chair Radya Jemal Hussien

Rag Chair Yasmin Simsek

Societies Guild Chair Noor Alimadani

Women’s Officer Christina Franklin

Lgbt+ Officer Éilis Cronin

Maths department Jack Mcmahon

Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil engineering Luke Waldron

Life Sciences Mo Khalifa

Student Assembly Community Members Daniel Adeyemi

Student Assembly Community Members Mohammad Khan

Student Assembly Community Members Ali Tariq

Student Assembly Community Members George Hughes

Student Assembly Community Members Cameron Griffiths

Student Assembly Community Members Shahrukh Khan

Student Assembly Community Members Mohamed Ahmed

Student Assembly Community Members Arundeep Chaggar

Total: 25/47 Apologies Sent By:

Entertainments Chair Nick Humberstone

Volunteering Chair Ashlee Moyo

Sports Federation Chair Christopher Medway

Brunel Business School Mohammed Bilal Gaj

Student Assembly Community Members Katherine Kneebone

Student Assembly Community Members Samuel Alner

Student Assembly Community Members Ammaar Ikram

Student Assembly Community Members Angus Bugg-Millar

Student Assembly Community Members Adam White

Student Assembly Community Members Jo Cassidy

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Student Assembly Community Members Miss Indra Warnes

Total: 11/47 Absent/Not Signed in, no apologies:

Equality & Diversity Chair Emily-Jade Nelson

Media Association Chair Becky Collins

Computer Science department Aldy Rasyid Abe

Electronic and computer engineering department Christiana Kellari

Arts and Humanities Sophie Perry

Politics, History and Brunel Law School Jibreel Tramboo

Social Sciences, Media and Communications Amy Harrison

Economics & Finance Babatunde Alabi

Student Assembly Community Members Muhammad Talha Khawaja

Student Assembly Community Members Abdullahi Buhari

Student Assembly Community Members Ahmed Ali

Total: 11/47 UBS Staff in attendance:

Student Voice Manager Rebecca Davies

Student Voice Administrator Emily Siddaway

1. Minutes of the Previous Meeting - Thursday 12th November 2015

Passed Indicatively

2. Matters Arising None

3. Elections and Ratifications a. Appointments Committee

Three positions available on the committee. Chair Of Student Assembly (Yohanna Sallberg), Environmental Chair (Mehvish Maghribi) and Student Assembly Community Member (Daniel Adeyemi) all nominated and voted onto the committee.

b. Trustee Recruitment and Selection Ratification President spoke for the ratification. No one spoke against. No questions. Ratification Passed Indicatively

4. Motions to revoke or amend the Constitution and Bye-Laws None

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5. Motions None

6. Any Other Business a. Reminder about Union Meeting

Meeting Close. Date of next Student Assembly meeting: Thursday 26th May, LECT 068, 7pm.

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APPENDIX

SU President Ali Milani, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: Brunel Bus

Provide students with a Brunel exclusive transport link to key local areas

Project Plan What’s done? What’s next? Context Ach %

Work with existing data and develop appropriate research on other Universities that have implemented this proposal 25% Create a comprehensive business case 50% develop feasibility study and lobby the institution to implement. 75% Oversee its implementation and ensure it is run reflective of the students. 100%

We have begun our research around the project and identified a number of Universities (namely Huddersfield and Oxford Brookes) that have this service in place.

We are in discussions with the University to look at previous proposal and weave them into our work.

Create a strong and feasible business case for implementation of the service

We have had an informal agreement between the Union and University to explore this project in a serious way. We have had some pause as it would have been politically counterproductive to pursue this project concurrent to the work being done around sports funding.

25%

Objective/Manifesto point: Cross Campus Catering Provisions

Completely change and thus improve the catering provisions on campus

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End current contract with Sodexo 25% Release contract provision to tender under European Procurement law 50% Negotiate with potential new caterers and develop long term contract 75% Sign new contract and roll out 100%

Having held discussions around the catering provisions on campus with the Universities Chief Operating Officer; Both the Union and the University have agreed to end our contract with Sodexo in May 2017 This includes all catering provisions; including Locos.

We then released the contract for tender under European Procurement laws We have met with all applicants and have reduced the negotiations to the final two companies

By October we will have decided the successful applicant and see a mobilisation date of May 7th 2017

I am unable to reveal exactly

where we are in the

negotiations due to commercial

sensitivity laws

75%

Objective/Manifesto point: Free Female Sanitary Products

Provide bio-female students with free sanitary products


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Discuss with our current Women’s Officer and SU’s around the country on creating a scheme 25% Determine what organisation we will work with and whether this will be a campaign or a sponsorship scheme 50% Develop an accessible method of distribution 75% Ensure upkeep and fair distribution 100%

Along with the Women’s officer we have been able to identify a company that will provide us with free sanitary products in exchange for sponsorship. We are currently developing a contract in which we can begin implementation for the next academic year. We have created a distribution method through the Union reception, ARC and the Meeting House.

Monitor usage and distribution method.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Refugee Scholarships

Create a refugee scholarship programme


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Research refugee scholarship programmes around the country and what would fit best for our campus 25% Write a paper proposal for a Brunel programme 50% Lobby the University to create a scheme and make the funds available 75% Ensure that the scholarships are used by the most vulnerable refugees 100%

Following months of research on what would be feasible and fit for purpose on our campus; we developed a proposal paper to go to Fee’s, Scholarship and SASS committee.

The paper has been agreed to in principle by University senior management. We have come to an agreement on 6 scholarships a year which will include complete tuition fee waivers and accommodation support where necessary. We will also be providing free English language courses for all those in the local community. The scholarship panel will be chaired by the President of the Union - which has never happened.

Ensure that access to the scholarship is to those who need it most.

This scheme has been agreed to but not yet publicised. I would like to ask that assembly keeps this to themselves until the official announcement is made.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Fix Student Assembly

Make our democratic meetings fit for purpose and more accessible and engaging


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Research the best practice democratic arenas of other Students’ Unions 25% Develop a strategy of a new model for our Student Assembly 50% Adjust our Bye Laws according to the new system 75% Ensure its smooth transition and implementation 100%

I researched over 20 Students’ Unions student assembly/council/congress to find best practice. I also visited Leeds and Manchester to see their system in place. Following the research we developed the new “Jury” system of student assembly. We also restructured the meetings into accountability and policy sessions. The new structure was put before the Annual Union Meeting and approved unanimously

Ensure the transition and implementation of this new project is effective

This is an entirely new system and very different to anything else any student union runs. It therefore may take some time to effectively transition

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Modernise Locos/Academy Payment Methods Modernise the method of payment in locos and academy through contactless payment


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Work with external company to develop an effective payment method in Locos and Academy 25% Introduce a number of new card machines in both Locos and Academy 50% Scrap the 50p charge 75% Oversee its implementation and ensure it is run effectively 100%

We have completed the research and introduce an entire new payment method in Locos and Academy. We have also scrapped the 50p charge.

Ensure upkeep. 100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Annual Union Awards This year we will be collating a number of our activities into the biggest awards night we have ever organised - The Annual Union Awards


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Develop a strategy on what the purpose and delivery of the event will be 25% Work with the VPSA to put together a programme of activity 50% Develop the event with the Events Department and set budget 75% Deliver the event effectively 100%

We have committed to running this event and have set a preliminary budget. We are currently in the process of putting together a programme of activity.

Develop the framework of the event. Consult with societies, volunteers, RAG and media.

50%

Objective/Manifesto point: Free Education Campaigning Mandated be the Annual Union Meeting to campaign for free education and against student debt.


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Collect Get Involved Data of students interested in the campaign 25% Organise for Nov 4th Demo 50% Be represented in NUS run campaigns around free education 75% Achieve Free Education 100%

Ran a Get Involved meta campaign where over 550 students registered to participate. Maintenance grants protest outside Boris Johnson’s office. More students mobilised than any other Union in the country. Successfully organised and mobilised for the national November 4th Demo. Organised and chaired an open meeting on how we go forward.

Run regular open meeting and see how students would like to campaign on the issue. Work with Staff and Academics to run regular “free lectures and seminars” as part of the campaign Mobilise for the national demonstration called by NUS on November 19th

Objective/Manifesto point: Living Wage Mandated by Student Assembly to explore the option of every student staff member receiving a living wage.


Overseen (as chair of the Trustee board) the immediate implementation of living wage for all student staff. We further moved our student staff

This can be considered 100% completed.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Website Reconfiguration

A redesign of the website with societies and sports club access


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Commission the communications department to begin work on a redesign 50% Launch redesign following focus group approval 100%

We have completely redesigned the website to make it more user friendly and aesthetically pleasing. While we work on creating a UBS app, you can now install the Brunel Students website to your smartphone home screen like a native application. We have ensured it has a customisation, so when you log in, your societies and sports clubs pages are configured automatically for you. Website has been redesigned a second time to math our re-brand. It will be in line with the release of our new Union App.

Work on usability and adjust content in relation to the relevance of student issues at the time.

We have designed the initial design of a Union App to go along with the new brand and website. We will be testing this out over the coming weeks and months to be launched next academic year.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Exam Feedback Provide every student with Exam feedback


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Research the implementation of exam feedback in every college 25% Write a paper with proposed new structure for Education Strategy Committee 50% Meet each college independently to discuss and agree implementation in different disciplines 75% Begin implementation and monitor progress 100% (Continuous)

Once the bad NSS result were released, we approached the university with the proposal of introducing exam feedback. The paper presented by myself was approved by Education Strategy and has been pushed down to the colleges for implementation We have tried to approach implementation in a “bottom up” approach. As each discipline is different, we are going into College Education Committees and allowing the departments to explore how they roll this out. I personally attended both the CEDPS and CBASS College Education Committees (with Aaron attending the CHLS one on my behalf) and presented a paper on the implementation of exam feedback. We

Oversee its robust implementation; widely communicate the availability and work with departments to plug any gaps that may exist. While this can now be seen as complete, we do have to carefully monitor its implementation.

100%

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then met with departments that have struggled in the past to advise on implementation. At this stage all the process have been put in place and exam feedback is available for every single student.

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Objective/Manifesto point: International Students Guarantors Find a way to provide international students with guarantors.


Research international guarantors at other Universities 25% Write a paper to be presented at Finance committee 50% Agree an initial budget for roll out 75% Roll out scheme and monitor progress 100%

Researched implementation and roll out by other Universities including UCL and Goldsmiths. Waiting for response from University.

Lobby the University to fund a limited pilot guarantor scheme.

The work around international guarantors has had to be put on hold at the moment. This is a tactical and political judgment call from me as a result of a holistic view of what work is being done. With some work being done around refugee scholarships and free sport; the university would be unwilling to make any more major financial investments in projects in a short space of time. While I still believe this project to be important, I have had to make this decision from an organisational perspective as appose to a personal one. I am still, however, in a position where I believe we can kick start this post Easter holidays.

50%

Objective/Manifesto point: TEF Green Paper A response to the Governments green paper on Teaching Excellence


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The Government has published its green paper outlining its plans for higher education. This includes the ability to increase tuition fees, the amalgamation of regulatory bodies and a possible change to the public interest; among other changes. This is perhaps the biggest shake up to HE since 2010. I am responsible for consulting and leasing with the government on this issue and am therefore currently writing a Union consultation document. The paper was written and circulated to all members of the Exec. We also took the draft to all of our reps congress’ for feedback. While it was difficult to have a wider consultation, the government purposely gave us little to no time to get this written.

The Governments White Paper is expected to be released on May 18th. While it is difficult to say what our response will be (as we have yet to see their proposal) we are expecting it to be very tough. At NUS National conference we passed a motion to boycott the NSS as a political strategy to stop the marketisation and fee link of HE. This may be an option going forward.

Due to the nature of this project there can be no real project plan. We have done all we can at this stage and are waiting the government’s response.

75%

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Sandwiched between Christmas and the beginning of term 1, this became extremely difficult. I am happy to say, however, we got the paper written and sent off to the government in time.

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Objective/Manifesto point: Students Not Suspects Mandated by the Annual Union Meeting to campaign against the new prevent strategy.


Collect Get Involved Data of students interested in the campaign 25% Organise a seminar and demonstration for national day of action 50% Be represented in NUS black students campaign project plan 75% Create a Joint UCU UBS open meeting 80% Repeal the Prevent Strategy 100%

The work we have done and our contributions to the national campaign have resulted in a Parliamentary review of the Prevent strategy Worked with the NUS UK, BSC and Kings College London on the “Students not Suspects tour” Applied a policy of non-compliance on the Union. Co-organised the “students not suspects” tour with KCL and NUS Organised a workshop at Brunel during IAM month. I delivered a speech on behalf of the Union and the NUS at the National Union of Teachers conference, aiming to develop networks and relationships to work together on this issue. We have since

I have met with some academics and representatives from the UCU to run a collaborative open meeting event. This will bring students and academics together to campaign against the Prevent strategy. The event will take place on November 10th 2016 during our annual Islamophobia Awareness Month.

75%

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agreed that the NUT, UCU and UBS will meet in Hillingdon to discuss collaborative projects.

Objective/Manifesto point: Hidden Course Costs Make sure the University publishes the hidden costs of all courses


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Discuss with the CMA the publishing of Hidden Course Costs 25% Audit problem departments 50% Produce results to University and the CMA 75% Publish hidden course costs 100%

Worked with the CMA to ensure all hidden course costs are published by the University prior to student’s applications. Oversaw the printing and amalgamation of the new University prospectus which we made sure explicitly stated all course costs. We have been able to convince most University departments to cover the cost of field trips – saving the students having to pay. We are aiming for this to be rolled out across the board.

Work towards scrapping them within courses where they are particularly bad.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Accommodation

To ensure accommodation services are value for money and students are at the heart of decisions made.


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Same as the above mentioned accommodation bursaries. This is the single biggest increase in accommodation related grants in the history of the University. We have been able to convince the University to provide students who live in University accommodation and have caring responsibilities with parking permits. Something the Union has been angling for, for years.

We are currently exploring the feasibility of creating a semi catered accommodation option for prospective students. This would mean you get 1 or 2 meals provided to you a day under your accommodation fees. Some Universities provide this option, at Brunel the idea is still at infancy stage.

The problems around accommodation are really flexible. They change dependent on current circumstance, so a project plan isn’t possible. I have made this a concurrent issue and will keep the panel updated on new sub projects within this.

75%

Joint projects with another Officer/Chair/Liberation officer

Joint with: Vice President Student Activities

Objective/Manifesto point: Student media refurbishment Not a Student Assembly mandate or a manifesto point, but an area the VPSA and I identified as needing improving. Student Media working area needs refurbishments.


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Agree a budget for refurbishment works 25% Complete a contractual negotiations on building works 50% Complete build and purchase technical requirements 75% Open access with new resources 100%

Have agreed and begun works on making sure the media suite has DDS accessibility. An agreed budget cap of £10,000 for refurbishments set. These included future proof options such as Macs and Cloud subscriptions, as well as, internal renovations.

We are still waiting on the University to build the disability access into the media suit.

The delay in the building of disability access comes from the fact the University health and safety team made a mistake in judging whether it was possible in a specific area. We are now having to agree a new area for it to be built that doesn’t compromise the limited space media has.

75%

Joint with: Free Sport Objective/Manifesto point:


Joint with: Objective/Manifesto point:


Retired Objectives/Manifesto points

Objective/Manifesto point Date of retirement

Saving Bursaries 01/03/2016

Islamophobia Awareness Month 01/03/2016

Challenging Costcutter 01/09/2016

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Key meeting feedback

Date Meeting Feedback

19th July 2016 Council Universities highest governance body

19th July 2016 Senate Universities highest academic governance body

22nd September 2016 Council (Away Day) Helped develop the upcoming Strategy

28th September 2016 Senate Universities highest academic governance body

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VP CHLS Aaron Lowman, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: Establishing student voice in the new QA model (TEF pilot)


Work with University enhancement team to establish new process (25%) Facilitate room and students to discuss TEF submission (50%) Change TEF submission to reflect views of students. Present TEF doc to University committee (75%) Submit in January, feedback

Considerable research into the new model had to be completed, in order to complete an appropriate doc Long winded negotiations with the University were had in order to put students back into the process. We have a agreed that I will hold an LSR type of position in the TEF

TEF consultation day is booked for October 3rd. Student will give their views and we can go from there. Submission is due in January. It can only be 15 pages max and there is currently zero guidance on what is expected

After all the effort we put in last year into the 6 year QAA HER review, the government have changed the process for QA assessment (and removed the student voice form it) I have worked with the University to return student voice back into our QA model. We are now almost at parity with the old system in terms of student engagement. This currently makes us the only Students’ Union in the country to have this. Altogether this can be considered very positive for us, both locally and Nationally

50

Objective/Manifesto point: More mental health support


Run one off events that encourage conversations about mental health, break down barriers and bust myths 25% Ensure all Uni staff have some form of training in mental health

Our website is being redesigned to make access to mental health material more noticeable We now have very close ties with Well@brunel and

During exam time we will be running various activities to help in the stressful period Finalise the University’s affiliation to London Nightline

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(to combat the ‘man up/shrug it off’ attitude that has been noted). 75% Complete a review of existing provision 80% Use the data from the review, as well as national FIO data to lobby (and win) for increased mental health funding, support and resources 100%

SWC to monitor Mental health of our students. FOI requests have been sent to 10 similar HEIs regarding their mental health provision

The F*OI requests will be used in a business case to improve the mental health provisions on campus Work with PASS to see how we can support their work (without committing ultravires)

Objective/Manifesto point: One App for everything (Joint with VPPG)


Source developer for app 25% Establish exactly what we want to app to do, how it will work etc 50% Trial ruins and testing 75% Full release in Freshers’ week 100% Monitor and update

App was developed by MSL, and launched a beta app in June. App is now available for download

Review effectiveness, listen to feedback and improve Add ability to vote via the app before spring elections Improve functionality and battle login issues

To create a Union app in which you can have personalised features based on your student experience

100

Objective/Manifesto point: Common rooms across campus


Agreeing the idea in principle with the University estates team 33% Finding appropriate places and

Idea has been agreed and places have been scoped Initial designs are currently being drafted

Building will require approval and finances, but as it will be a low cost low risk build this is not expected to take long

Student working and social spaces are almost non existent. Students can’t all be in the library – it’s the reason the ground floor is so noisy! Ths social spaces are designed as a way by which students can

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designs 66% Build common rooms 100%

Consult with students about what they would like to see within the common rooms

work, socialise, play pool and also have facilities to warm food


Joint with: VPCs & VPPG Objective/Manifesto point: Building on the rep system


Develop rep rewards framework 25% Recruit 70% of rep positions via elections 50% Effectively train and support reps reps to complete their duties 75% Use rep reward scheme to provide monthly awards, as well as a large scale end of year event 100%

Rep rewards system has been finalised and approved. Recruitment is underway, with a new comprehensive comms plan Training has been finalised and now we are working on how to best deliver it

Continue recruitment and focus on areas with low numbers Establish contact with new reps and create a positive working relationship to build on over the year Empower the reps to complete their job with conviction Look into positions for students on placement/returning from placement as they currently do not have any formal representation Review and monitor effectiveness

After significant investment in the rep structure, we are working towards a sector leading programme. We have recruited a rep coordinator to support the work of the VPCs, as well as increasing our work with the University to reach this goal

25%

Joint with: VPSA Objective/Manifesto point: don’t drop out, drop in


Develop ties with all services for students on campus 25% Create material and signposting

All services have been contacted and material written Student services are on board with

Film video to launch the campaign Finalise promo material with comms

Part of our strategic plan is to minimise student dropout rates. This campaigns is part of this work

50%

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for students to alert them of such services 50% Release at pre determined time in order to have most impact 100% Collect feedback, adapt, repeat.

promo and dates have been confirmed. Monday of week 11 is launch day.





Multiple Senate Late submission policy passed despite our disagreement

Aug & Sep Social policy Return of an old meeting from Membership engagement directorate

June (multiple) Student charter redesign I have rewritten the student charter, after approval at Esc I October this will be rolled out campus wide

June – July Digital assessment working group

Developing policy for how students will use computers and devices as part of their assessments

24th Sep Meeting with PASS Establishing connections and figuring plan for the year

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VP Student Activities Michael Darlow, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: Establish the Team Brunel brand.


Investigate need to have all teams in the Team Brunel brand 10% Formulate a budget and a document outlining rationale 20% Create tender document to send to numerous suppliers. Discover student needs from this and what their priorities are. 30% Hold meeting with the different suppliers to ask questions and decide who our supplier will be 60% Hold open session with clubs to decide their kit for the year. 80% Online shop opened, students have started to order. Playing kit finalised will arrive in time for first fixture 100%

Continue to promote the brand and make sure all students have the kit.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Termly Instalments


Review last year’s pilot scheme 10% Discover ways to improve the scheme 50% Rollout again for this academic year 100%

Reviewed and decided to run one more pilot. Reason for another pilot is because direct debits were not used last year. We will use this payment option this year. Same clubs will be used.

Finalise that MSL can provide this option.

50%

Objective/Manifesto point: Sports Scholarships and Performance Programme


Review last year’s schemes 10% Identify ways for these to be improved.50% Rollout again for this academic year 100%

Decided which clubs and students will be selected onto each scheme. Scholarships structured differently to accommodate for the unique nature of

100%

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Athletics.

Objective/Manifesto point: Cycling on Campus


Wrote a proposal with a University representative to have two part-time cycling officers on campus funded by TFL. 10% Meet with them to discuss direction once appointed. 50% Work with them throughout the year to run campaigns and events. 100%

Proposal written and accepted. Have met and discussed plans for the year. The Cycling Hub during Fresher’s Week was a success.

Work together on numerous projects throughout the year to raise awareness of the benefits and to hopefully increase use.

Objective/Manifesto point: RAG


Sat down with new committee to discuss future plans 10% Met with student activities to finalise and manage these plans 50% Work with them throughout the year to run events. 100%

New brand and colourway has been decided for RAG. Events finalised and project plans in place. Charity Fayre was run on Friday of Freshers’ Week with 6 charities selected.

Continue to support the chair and committee with events and activities they wish to run.

Objective/Manifesto point: Societies Handbook


To create a handbook that new/current societies can use to help run their society. All information required in one simple handbook.

Handbook completed. Presented at the recent Society Training session.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Student Activities Training


To review and expand the current training schedule for our clubs and societies. Included a session from GoodLad to tackle the issue of Lad Culture.

Training sessions run and received positive feedback for the inclusion of tackling Lad Culture on campus.

100%

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Objective/Manifesto point: Sexual Harassment Campaign


To organise and deliver numerous different campaigns and initiatives for the current academic year to tackle the issue of sexual harassment on campus.

Project plan put together with a wide variety of events populating the calendar throughout the year. GoodLad workshops introduced into C&S training sessions.

To conduct a survey in Week 3 to determine the current state of affairs.

25%

Objective/Manifesto point: Free Club Memberships


To investigate the possibility of removing club memberships fees for the academic year 17/18.

Received fantastic support from the President and VP CHLS to pull together a document to demonstrate the benefits of introducing this option for our clubs. Paper will be taken to the University to request for this funding.

Sit and wait for the answer!

25%


Joint with: VP CHLS Objective/Manifesto point: The App


(see VP CHLS report)

Joint with: President Objective/Manifesto point: Annual Union Awards


(see President report)

Joint with: VP CHLS Objective/Manifesto point: Don’t Drop Out, Drop In!


(see VP CHLS report)

Joint with: VP PG Objective/Manifesto point: Lecture Free Wednesdays


(see VP PG report)

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VP Postgraduate Pauldy Otermans, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point:


Increase the synergy between Postgraduate students themselves and with the rest of the university.

Meetings BRPS society to plan events Working directly with the graduate school to increase awareness about postgraduate events and increasing the participation and attendance of postgraduate students, also for promotion of society events. Postgraduate Society on Fresher’s Fayre; other PG events in Fresher’s week (Uxbridge tour, dessert evening, postgrad party). Some Union-led, some Graduate School-led 4 events before the summer for PG Students (2 culture clubs and 2 screening of movies)

Continue conversations with the graduate school. Make sure the new PG students stay involved; new events to be held in October.

Postgraduate students need more awareness of the Union. Also they need more synergy between each other, especially since most of them are only here for 1 year (PGT). PGR students often feel isolated due to the nature of the PGR study, but their program is 3 or 4 years. Start: Jan 2016 End: Summer 2016

80



Direct Email and Social Media contact with me as well as meeting PGR students.

Met all PGR reps from each college for input. VPPG Posters on campus have helped increase awareness. Students have contacted me. Attended several PGR SSLC meetings. Met several PGR directors to discuss new rep structure.

PGR rep elections, achieving high number of positions to be filled. Special PG Newsletter in conjunction with the graduate school and the university

Create awareness of my new post. Start: 18th Nov Finish: October 2016

90

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Proposal was approved by PGRD Committee in June. Held PGR rep elections over the summer.



Inter-college postgraduate events

In talks with the graduate school to organize inter-disciplinary event for postgraduates. There was a consortium in CEDPS

In talks with the graduate school to organize inter-disciplinary event for postgraduates as well as talking to BPRS: But the colleges do a lot of the events on a college-basis. In CHLS there will be a 2nd CHLS PGR conference organized by PGR students for PGR students

Organise an inter-college social event where students can showcase their areas of study and work. Start: 17th Nov Finish: Summer 2016

100



Greatly increase the career and academic support given to international postgraduates who often have less than a year to learn, adapt and excel.

Informing postgraduate students about various important workshops to attend by directly emailing every PhD student. CHLS College training program just finished Published: Employment-of-Postgraduate-Research-Students-in-Supporting-Teaching-and-Learning-Policy Also Published: New job descriptions + equal pay + new procedure to hire GTA’s and Demonstrators.

Adapting waiting times on Graduate School workshops. Feedback on RDA system from supervisors. RSD socials for PGR students. Induction checklist to be finalised.

Often the workshops of the graduate school are too generic. Needs more specialisation. Start: 11th Nov Finish: May 2016

85



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Improving research environment for PGR students

Published: New policy for PGR students in CHLS on resource funding. PGR internal survey has been conducted over the summer. Results are analysed. Published: Revised Code of Practice and Senate Regulation 5. All PGR students have access to black-and-white printing (free).

Discuss PGR and PGT survey results that were held over the summer. Publish the new resources policy (waiting for quality department) and office etiquette. Meeting university on several PGR issues:

- Startdates - Funding - Research

culture

There is a clear lack of research environment for PGR students. Start: Nov 2015 Finish: October 2016

75



Recruitment of PGT/R

Met Head of Recruitment (2x), Union is now involved in the recruitment of students (University uses our presentation when talking to recruiters).

Numbers of students need to increase. Increase the recruitment of international students. Start: Feb 2016 Finish: June 2016

100



Students as carers

Met with ARC and WP officer of university couple of times.

Students as carers need to be identified together with their needs and how we can support them. Start: Jan 2016 Finish: Summer 2016

85


Joint with: Michael Darlow Objective/Manifesto point:


Wednesday sports Focusgroup Meetings with the university In talks with university staff to discuss new policy on Wednesday afternoon free for

Waiting for university to send the different proposals on Wednesday afternoon off.

PGT students can have lectures on Wednesday after 1pm, whilst UG are free. Start: Nov 2015 Finish: Summer 2016

55

36

PGT.



June PGRD committee - Working on new induction checklist for PGR students

- Revised Code of Practice and Senate Regulation 5 approved

- PGR survey results will be discussed next time

- Resources policy still to be published

- New policy and procedure on GTA and Demonstrator employment

- New PGR rep structure approved

Sept Council

Sept Senate Late submission policy

Summer PGR directors on rep structure and elections - Held elections in July to elect new PGR reps according to the new structure. Will be followed in October.

37

VP CBASS Yousef Mohamed, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: The Eid celebration event

Project Plan What’s done? What’s

next?

Context Ach %

It is done and it has been very

successful. Attended by more

than 500 students, staff

members and local residents.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Freshers fair


next?

Context Ach %

It is done. I was part of the

planning and implementation.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: Community Cohesion Fund


next?

Context Ach %

Done • Done fund of £10,000

has been secured

• I think it is common

Knowledge by now that

inclusivity and community

cohesion is one of my top

priorities this year

• I have held a number of

meetings with university

representing the huge success

of the previous such as Eid

Celebration and the special

welcome events that took place

in the fresher’s week and its

positive impact on the Brunel

students and the local

community.

• I have worked closely

with president to lobby the

university to match fund the

union contribution

Done Request to retire 100

38

Objective/Manifesto point: CBASS PGR work space improvement


next?

Context Ach %

• Held a series of meeting

with director of college

operation CBASS to lobby for

enhancements that intend to

provide a more flexible working

environment and improve

access to both space and

equipment for all PGR students.

• Looked at previous

surveys, had a number of site

visits as well as having met a

large number of PGR students

• Suggested a proposal of

immediate and long term

enhancements

• Have successfully

secured list of enhancements

most important of which is that

from 4th January 2016 Any

CBASS PGR student will be able

to access any CBASS PGR room

either via swipe card or digital

door lock

Working on

several

additional

improvemen

ts which will

be made

between the

4th January

and the end

of the

academic

year. These

include:

•installing a

single unified

printing

system for all

PGR students

accessed via

swipe card

•improving

specialist

software

availability

•creating

additional

social space

for all CBASS

students

Waiting for a survey

outcome that the

CBASS operations is

conducting

75

Objective/Manifesto point: One World Week


next?

Context Ach %

• Please see the attached

report

•Officer lead on this major

project Working closely with

our union events team as well

university international

department ensure the success

DONE Request to retire 100

39

and smooth running of this

major project to allow all our

Brunel student to celebrate our

diverse community.

• Working on

encouraging students, societies,

sport clubs, staff and locals to

get involved in numerous

events.

Objective/Manifesto point: Chinese New Year Celebration


next?

Context Ach %

Done

- It was very successful

event. A number of the

senior university staff

members have

attended a long with

myself, more

importantly more than

150 Chinese students

have attended. There

were more than 9

traditional

performances.

Done Request to retire 100

Objective/Manifesto point: Increase the diversity in the CBASS curriculum


-Have held a number of

meetings with the college staff

exploring how can we see it

through

- had meeting with vice Pro Vice

Chancellor (Quality Assurance

I have already

arranged a couple

of meetings with

heads of the

departments to

discuss various

academic issues

This task took a

back seat for a

while as lobbing

for exam

feedback and

working on

implanting it as it

25

40

and Enhancement) on the 20th

October regarding it.

at CBASS,

curriculum

diversity Is one of

them

turns to be a very

difficult task in

CBASS because of

its divers courses

and size

Objective/Manifesto point: off campus accommodation enhancement


- Have done an

extensive research on

the services nationally

- Have visited the

University Of Essex

Students Union’s off

campus

accommodation office

- Have started the

brainstorming and

negotiating process

with the university

-work with the

university off

campus

accommodation

and commercials

to work out some

sort of

partnership with

the Union which

can improve the

current services

25

Objective/Manifesto point: International students Home


- After a series of

meetings I have agreed

principally with senior

management on the

need and allocation of

brand new space.

Had a series of meetings with

Paul Thomas chief executive

operation to find space for the

new international home to be

located.

-Negotiating the

space and the

allocation of the

new office. There is

a initial talks that it

might be on the

Arts Building.

Waiting for the

safety report

from the

contractors

working on John

Crank as the

location

suggested by Paul

to be in the Arts

There is a lot of

construction

taking place on

campus such as

the Wilford

Brown building

being

restructured that

have cause severe

shortage of

teaching spaces

and office spaces.

Hence it is

challenging to

locate the

international

50

41

building.

However that

building may not

be safe to use

due to the

demolition of

John Crank,

therefore waiting

for the reports

from contractors

whether or not

the arts building

is in the safe

parameter.

home in.


Joint with: SU President

Objective/Manifesto point: I AM campaign – Islamophobia awareness month


It is a joint project

with the President

Ali for full

information

please read the

report included

with Ali’s report.

Joint with: VP Colleges

Objective/Manifesto point: student Representation system improvement


Joint report with

all VP colleges.

Please see the

joint report in

Aaron’s report

Implementing new

promotional plan

including giving

lectures shoutouts

over the course of

next two weeks.

Joint with: VP Collages

Objective/Manifesto point: The Union App


It is completed

and now it is

Throughout the

year to further

100

42

available in both

ITunes and Google

Play store.

promote it to

students.

Joint with: VP Activities

Objective/Manifesto point: Inclusivity in the university and the union activities


This task obviously is ongoing

task as the year hasn’t

finished yet. however I

believe that inclusivity has

improved dramatically

throughout all the Union

activities

I have been involved in large

number of union and

university events and

successfully been able to

enhance inclusivity

- Took the lead and Created

new events that we didn’t

see before on campus. To

name few

-One World Week

-Chinese new Year

Celebration

-The Eid celebration event

during the summer which

have been attended by

audience may have not been

included before such as staff

members , local community ,

post graduate research

students, Brunel Muslim

students and local

councillors, mayor of

Hillingdon and international

students ( for more details

please attachment 3 )

- First ever event at fresher’s

43

week aimed for our 700

Chinese students. It was very

popular and it had attended

by a large number of new

students as well as Pro Vice

Chancellor (international

students) and first secretary

of the Chinese embassy.


Objective/Manifesto point: Brand new student Representation system


I have arranged an informal

meetings over the course of

two weeks inviting all CBASS

Reps allowing them to

feedback to their college VP

and the Union and to be

given guidance and advice

when is needed.

Have arranged and attended

NUS course reps training with

a number of our course reps

(All Colleges) on 6th February

- Student Rep Congress

(All Colleges)

Brand new student

Representation system

Promoting the new students

Reps system turned to be a

lot harder than I thought for

the CBASS due being the

largest college with largest

number of students, courses

and departments.

However I have worked hard

on promoting the new

system to students during the

summer including working on

promotional materials such

as the promotional video as

well as dedicating one whole

week to do lectures

Working on

performance based

scheme for all the

Union reps as there

is complaints from

some the reps that

there is very few

reps are attending

SSLCs and

participating. I

think it is needed

to encourage good

practice.

44

shootouts almost every hour

in order to successfully fill in

all the positions within the

CBASS College.

The official training for CBASS

current Reps has been

completed on 14th

November


Objective/Manifesto point: SLTA Nomination and awards night


Have run a

campaign online

and offline to

Promote it to all

Brunel students.

Nominations are

closed now.

Organising and

running the

awards night.

The awards night

will take place on

20th April

75


Objective/Manifesto point: The Union App


-Have held a

series of meetings

with the union

communication

department.

- A trail version of

the app is already

been produced

and installed on

my phones for

trail and feedback

-feedback to the

communication

department based

on the user

experience in next

few weeks.

-Finalising the

content and

design of the app

75



Islamophobia Awareness Month 16 February

45

Improve the food provision on campus 16 February

Expand off campus social places and creating

a free and non-alcoholic social area

16 February

Open Social Amenities Building 24/7. 16 February



1st June- 12th June Officer training Training was very informative and have fed

back to the senior management

requesting to have include more training

on the practical side of the role

Also the training was very beneficial to the

team spirit that the officer team currently

has.

15th June (Multiple) Website redesign Series of meeting started on 15th of June

resulted on complete union website

redesign

18th June

Space Temperature

Review

Disused the new university energy saving

policy. I have raised few concerns and

proposed procedures to mitigate any

potential negative effect on the students

22nd June

(Multiple)

Fresher’s week events Series of meeting with officers, union staff

resulted in successful delivery of all

fresher’s fayer events and activities

27th June Undergraduate open day Spoken to a large number of potential

Under graduate students. Represented and

promoted the student union at open day

Multiple Promoting new students

Reps

Preparing promotional material

Coordination the efforts to successful

implementation of the brand new system

Reps

Multiple Monthly meeting with

Vice Chancellor

Voicing my concerns regarding various

issues concerning our Brunel students. Such

as students accommodation fees increase

46

and introducing exam feedback across all

university departments

Multiple Monthly meeting with

Dean of CBASS college

Series of meetings aimed to discuss all

issues that facing the college.

Multiple

Started in June

Commercial department Series of meetings which have resulted to

have the brand new social area in social

kitchen.

7th September CBASS Feedback

Enhancement Meeting

After a series of meetings during a period 3

months we have agreed on the final

feedback proposal.

22nd September Directors of Teaching and

Learning meeting

Agreed upon a quicker feedback to all

CBASS students

14th November CBASS Reps congress One day intensive training for CBASS Reps

6th January Vice chancellor Discussed the major challenges that CBASS

students are currently encountering

8th January ASK undergraduate

Dissertation week meeting

Discussed the workshop material and

promotion strategy

20th January CBASS CEC Finalised and confirmed the exam

feedback

25th January Transition project working

group

Part of working group on preparing a full

Transition programme

6th February

NUS Course Rep

Conference

Was very inspiring and Informative

conference to me as well as the Brunel

course reps attended

12th,13th,14th and

19th April

SSLC Meetings -Supported the Course Reps

- Raised a Few Issues that is reoccurring

across the CBASS

14th April Off-campus

accommodation and

commercials

- Started the negotiating process

6th April Meeting with student

services manager

- Discussed the Hardship fund for

home International students

18th April With ARC Manger Discussed The university Hardship fund

16th March Student Focus group for

timetabling

Raised a number of concerns regarding the

Timetabling feedback from CBASS Students

6th May Interview for CBASS Dean. Part of the interview panel who have

47

interviewed candidates for the role and

provided student prospective and asked

questions concerning the student to

candidates.

5th May Student representatives

welcome event.

Feedback session with the Student reps.

10th May Cabinet meeting. Please see minutes meeting for more

information.

13th May Meeting with Paul

Thomas.

Discussing different potential areas for

international home.

4th June Students Not Suspects

Conference

Informative event which have provided me

more ideas and techniques to implement in

Brunel.

May – 10th July A series of meetings with

events team.

To plan the Eid celebration event.

May – Current Student representative

system enhancement

meeting

A series of meetings to discuss the

improvement to be made to the student

representative system.

16th June Meeting with Vice Dean

welfare.

Discussing the logistics of the student

representative’s recruitment strategy.

One world week,

7 ambassadors working on the project since November

As well as 25 volunteers working over 350 hours during the week

Events during the week

Monday Carnival – 50 to 60 students involved – especially Thai and Nordic society. More attended for the speech by Andrew George (DVC education and international) African drumming had between 60-80 people attend class’ and a much bigger audience Tuesday Over 100 people attended refugee crisis discussion Langar (sikh) society events had over 620 people attend (based on plates used) Wednesday Over 102 people voted (and tasted) the great Brunel Bake off Rangoli art creation viewed by over 100 Thursday

48

180 attended the Fashion Show Culture fair, 8 societies around 100 students attended Friday One World Week Reception – filled the Marquee (c.120-150). The University work with us, to

celebrate 50 years of diversity, as part of the 50th anniversary of Brunel. The mayor of Hillingdon was

in attendance.

Awards were given to:

Best event Langar society (sikh)

Runner up – afghan society

Commendations for Nordic society and Sri Lankan Society

49

Monday Interfaith, Prayer & Meditation Exhibition Dominos Stall World Carnival African Drumming Dodgeball Tournament Let's Cook Locos on the Go Discussion (Nothing about us without us) Afghan Cultural Event Culture Question Time Groove Aerobics Fitness Class Asian Society - Cultural Evening Bingo

Tuesday Interfaith, Prayer & Meditation Exhibition Langar One World Coffee Morning Tuesday Market Dominos Stall Bhangra Flashmob Let's Cook One World Week Mural Self Imagine Dance Workshop The Refugee Crisis: Should we be doing more? Karaoke

Wednesday Interfaith, Prayer & Meditation Exhibition Match4Lara The Great Brunel Bake Off A Trip to Egypt Lets Cook One World Week Mural Rangoli Workshop Screening - The Untouchables Japanese Culture Nordic Movie Night One World Week Themed Debate Nordic Takeover of Academy

Thursday Interfaith, Prayer & Meditation Exhibition Culture Market Dominos Stall World Beauty Lets Cook One World Week Mural Blue Ronda - Latin Jazz Band Around the World in Faraday One World Week Fashion Show

Friday First Aid Awareness Biscuit Decorating Workshop Dominos Stall Africa Cup of Nations Lets Cook One World Week Mural Thai Language Cafe The Rabbit Cafe One World Week Reception Kizomba Dance Workshop Poetry Society Charity Football Tournament Around the Global

http://brunelstudents.com/ents/event/2124/





























































50

VP CEDPS Mohamed Omar, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: HAVE LAPTOPS for off campus students to borrow from the library


Investigate why laptops are needed for students to borrow, both on campus and off campus students wanted it very much! Go to the university library/IT/operations and demad laptops tpo be avaivble for students to borrow

Had a meeting with Pekka, Chief Information Officer about the need for laptops on campus for students Started a working group, Pilot scheme initiated for beginning of October!

Carry working with the working group and After the pilot scheme turn the time of borrowing the laptops for 3 hours to a day!

Library gets packed, students unable to afford a laptop may want go out on to the quad or somewhere else to do their coursework etc, laptops rectifies both these issues… I went to the university regarding this, they agreed and we sought out a pilot to be started in October where lockers will be placed in the library with laptops in them. ID cards will be scanned to borrow the laptops for 3 hours at a time, students can go back and get another.

100%

Objective/Manifesto point: lecture captures recordings


Take it to the university as a new policy, Start a working group among students the union and the university

Sat in working groups, discussing how such policy should be implemented and why it is essential, Research by the university, Aaron has taking lead as the closed working group period was due

University to draw up and write the policy for lecture captures. The Student Union to liaise with the university and help push the implementation of the policy Liaise with Aaron and become lead contact for this objective.

Lecture captures is clearly something that a majority of students want and need and if other universities have them, why can’t we? I asked around union and university officials and lecturers/academics to see if it was possible and whether they will be okay with it, results I got was good, some academics didn’t mind as long as they didn’t have to put their time and effort into it, and research shows that lecture captures doesn’t lead to a significant decrease in student participations in lectures.

50%

Objective/Manifesto point: Union Mobile APP


Something that all the officers had been working on and found out after I put it as one of my

Union mobile app has been completed after deliberations within the union and the external

Fix any bugs and improve the website

2016 the digital age, yet he we had no union mobile app for students to vote, join societies and clubs and look at union news?

100

51

manifesto points company Took part in some of the discussions for the apps mechanics before it was released to the students

No brainer, makes life easier for students at brunel

Objective/Manifesto point: toasters and microwave in accommodation


Write a report on why we need and should have basic facilities such as toasters and microwaves in our accommodation services, especially with the rent prices at Brunel.

Discussed with the officer teams the likelihood of having these services, Written a brief report/document which will be scrutinised by the other officers for help in improving the report

Due to confidential stuff I won’t be acting on this objective for now until further deliberations takes place.

Simple facilities needed by all students should be a formality in our accommodation kitchens rather than having to have the awkward conversations with housemates for everyone to chip in extra money and buy these facilities Microwaves and toasters are a basic right for on campus students!

25%

Objective/Manifesto point: more union events and society collaborations.


Increase the amount of academic, political and awareness events and campaigns the union run.

Eid Celebration event completed and was a success!! Part of black history month planned A document detailing a decolonising series written.

Have an eventful and awareness raising black history month, and get societies involved Finish the final document for the decolonising series and speak to various societies to deliver these events alongside the union

University is a place to learn and educate about different walks of life you have never crossed whilst also learning new cultures. The union alongside the university should be at the forefront of this and have various events running throughout the year with influential speakers and creative spaces.

25


Joint with: Objective/Manifesto point: A more effective student representation


increase the amount of reps so that the union has more feedback

New rep system and rep hub with many rewards and recognitions as

, give lecture shout outs week starting the 3rd of October,

Wasn’t in my manifesto but a shared goal of the union to increase student representation at course and department level,

50%

52

with the issues student face in their courses, programmes, degrees and everyday life at brunel,

well as an awards scheme

Reps training and congress,

See VP colleges for enhanced reports VP CHLS.









July John crank Pekka was really keen on the laptops scheme and went forward with me straight away to start a working group, 2 months later we will be having 36 laptops available in lockers in the library for a pilot scheme.

June Offices Deliberated with Yousef on the Eid event, plans submitted and actioned on.

June/july Offices/ meeting room Everyone discussed and deliberated on how the Union Mobile App should run and that it be ready before fresher’s week so students

53

can sign up to clubs and societies through their phone!

Jun/July/August/September Offices/meeting room Discussed everything from course reps to the rep hub to Pgr reps and to rep hoodies, REPs galore! Most things were agreed on and pushed to be ready for the rep elections in the next few weeks.

International Students Officer Ranjeet Rathore, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: Build a bike shed to enable students to safely park their bikes on campus. This will encourage more students to use their bikes rather than taking buses or going by car, which is both healthier for them and better for the environment.


Investigate need amongst students for a bike shed 10% Formulate a budget and a document outlining rationale 20% Find out who to contact within University and book meeting 30% Reach agreement with University 60% Find a contractor to build it and sign contract 80% Bike shed finished and ready to use

Investigated already existing bike sheds on campus to see where an additional one would be needed Ran a short online survey to investigate whether students supported the idea, majority did. Formulated a document with the plan and the rationale and budget for the project which has been consulted by colleagues Approached the University and booked a meeting with the appropriate staff

Reach an agreement with University staff Secure funding for project Sign agreement with contractor

As I was looking in to bike sheds on campus I realised there was none in the far west corner of campus The online survey clearly showed that students were in need of another bike shed (please see attached results) The document I formulated was used in negotiations with the University to clearly stake out why we needed it and to help me build an argument during the meetings I found out that it was Mrs Smith who would be in charge of signing of budget for such a project, as she was away for 5 weeks on annual leave I had to wait to meet with her until she’s back, therefore this project will be paused awaiting her arrival back at work

25%

54

100%

member



Work with the international student’s department of the university for better organisations of the international students trips in the UK.

Started to get in touch with the internationals students department.

Will work towards the improvement the current trip planner that we use in Brunel.

The international student’s department has already been doing a great job of taking the students on domestic tours. What I plan to improvise in this is, giving students a chance to choose the destination. Earlier the department used to choose for the place to visit, now what we can do is, ask students to vote for where they want to travel to? A small little update will give students a sense of involvement and leave a positive impression in the minds of the students.


55



Investigate among the international societies for collaborative activities. Intersociety sports tournaments like football, badminton, cricket and many more.

Gave out the offer to a handful of international societies for intersociety tournament.

Reach out to the venue managers and the staff members regarding the enquiry of the booking fee and the availability of the pitches. Moreover, reach out to as many societies as possible for sports involvement.

Over my past years in the university I noticed that there is not much collaboration between the societies. Brunel is such a diverse university or should I say a very big platform for students to know people from different cultural and multi-faith backgrounds. This is the reason why I want sports to be reason of common grounds which will bring all the students together and in this manner the engagement level of students will go up and I am sure the response will be very high. I am working to get as many societies as possible on board for the inter- societies sports tournaments.



Bring together different societies sharing the same spiritual beliefs for religious celebrations. Events such as Diwali, Eid, Chinese New Year and many more.

Prepared the perspective proposal for the events.

Will be sending the proposal to the presidents of different societies. Get in touch with the student’s union office to enquire more about the event planning rules and regulations. Will work on getting the

Religion is what unites us together. Every religious society celebrates their traditional mystical days. For example: Hindu society, Indian society, Tamil society, Sikh society all celebrate on occasions like Diwali and Holi. Earlier the societies used to do and it was just amongst each other.

56

contact details of the societies presidents.

What I want to improvise onto this is, bringing together the societies with the similar religious beliefs. By undertaking this the societies will celebrate events together and the gathering will be bigger and the student engagement and enjoyment will be greater.





Disabled Students Officer, Kushti Westwood, October 2016 Student Assembly Report:

Objective/Manifesto point: Put an information board outside of the DDS service base with details about me, the role, activities and where to contact me.


Set up role contact details and have an updated headshot, check this with the Union (10%) Speak to DDS manager (Gill)

Set up role contact details, updated headshot and had this updated on Union website Met the manager of the DDS at fresher’s fayre and have taken

Email DDS manager and set up the meeting. I will discuss this objective and hopefully it will be approved then.

The role needs more Disabled Students to be aware of it, and the best way would be through utilising this space as advertising purposes. From the last election results it seems that many are unaware of what the position does.

30%

57

about the logistics of this and whether they can okay it (80%) Small budget for printing materials to be approved (100%)

down her contact details. We have agreed to have monthly meetings. I am also going into their staff meeting at the beginning of October Spoken to VP CHLS about the plan, budget should be okay but needs to be approved

Objective/Manifesto point: Altering the sign on the accessible toilets in the Union building to be more inclusive. It will include a gender neutral symbol, the wheelchair symbol, the phrase “not all disabilities are visible” and labelled as “accessible toilet”


Speak to other Disabled Students about the issue and whether they feel it is needed 10% Discuss idea with VP CHLS about how and whether this can be done 30% Meet with Andy (I think) about this to get this done 80% Have a budget approved to change the signs 100%

Met and spoke with other Disabled Students, they agreed on a need for a sign change Spoken with VP CHLS about this

Meet with Andy to get approval for the change. Get budget approval for this.

Though the conversations were informal, due to a current lack of a working group, it was agreed that we need to do more to raise awareness of invisible illness and disability. The sign change was seen to be an effective way to do this. The VP CHLS agreed on the sign change, and would help me follow this up. I was directed to those who can help me get this signed off. I have examples of the sign desired, so that can be used in meetings.

30%

Objective/Manifesto point: Renew the Time to Change Pledge by passing it through Student Assembly


Speak to Ali Chanine about this 10%

Spoken to Ali Chanine about this

Work with Ali Chanine and VP CHLS on how to get this to Student

10%

58

Put the Time to Change Pledge on the agenda for Student Assembly 70% Speak at Student Assembly on why we need to pass this 100%

Assembly again.

Objective/Manifesto point: Mental health awareness and the arts event. This would include poetry, music, etc. all around the theme of mental health and discussing issues pertaining to this. It would likely take the form of an open mic night, however some acts would be scheduled beforehand in order to ensure a successful event.


Speak to arts societies about potential involvement (e.g. poetry society) 10%

Get a list of potential acts that have been agreed upon (Potentially get in an external performer to do a set around mental health) 40% Speak to the entertainments department about booking Academy for this event, set date and time with them 60% Approve budget for the event (for potential external performer, advertising etc) 80%

Nothing yet 0%

59

Design posters and advertise 90% Gather information leaflets from campus and local sources of support for people struggling with mental health (e.g. Well@Brunel, counselling, ARC, Mind) 100%

Objective/Manifesto point: External speaker to come in to discuss mental health in education. This could be from Mind etc. A panel event could also be done to start a discussion (e.g. people from charities, local politicians)


Speak to VP CHLS about this and how this can fit into a wider plan for the mental health awareness campaign (as it’s not developed further, the project plan depends upon what’s decided upon as an appropriate event)

Nothing yet Speak to VP CHLS at next meeting.

0%


Joint with: Other Liberation Officers, potentially Media Chair Objective/Manifesto point: Liberation Blog to be set up, this is to include regular blog posts on a variety of issues from all the Liberation Officers. It will be chatty and informal, but provide a source of debate and continuous awareness of the role. Anonymous submission of questions will be set up to allow students to submit questions on sensitive issues.


Speak to other Liberation Officers about this

Spoken to other Liberation Officers about this, all

Speak to the Communications department about

After speaking to VP CHLS, I was informed that the blog needed to be set up as a mini-

20%

60

10% Speak to VP CHLS about this to see how this can logistically work 20% Speak to the Communications department about them designing a mini-site from the main Union website 50% Design to be agreed by all Liberation Officers, and then designed by the Comms team 70% First blog posts to be written and uploaded 90% Meet with Student Media Chair about the advertising of this and how it could be potentially incorporated into Student Media (100%)

agreed on the idea of a blog at residential Spoken to VP CHLS about the objective

the logistics further Meet with other liberation officers to discuss the design and content ideas Write up introductory blog post about the role and issues pertaining to it Look into potential ways this could link to existing student media sources we have

site from the main Union website for administrative purposes. This works fine, and anonymous submission of questions should be fine.

Joint with: Other Liberation Officers Objective/Manifesto point: A panel discussion on political inclusion, this will include having members of the liberation groups on the panel to discuss issues such as barriers to political inclusion, experiences of racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism, as well as ideas for overcoming this on a national and local scale.


Discuss this idea with other Liberation Officers, get their approval for the event (and discuss

Nothing yet 0%

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potential for any speakers etc.) 10% Decide on a date, time and location 30% Decide on who will be on the panel (whether it is students, Liberation Officers or external speakers) 70% Decide on potential discussion points and a format for the evening 100%

Joint with: Societies Guild Chair Objective/Manifesto point: Enable and support autistic students to set up a society based around autism awareness and for social purposes


Speak to autistic students about the potential need for this, create a list of contact details of those that would like to be involved with this 10% Speak to DDS about the existing Asperger’s group and how this can supplement that as a more informal and regular meeting 50% Meet with the Societies Guild Chair to discuss

Spoken to several autistic students about the potential for a society 10%

Speak to DDS about the existing group and how we can move forward with a society being set up. Speak to the Societies Guild Chair about the existing structures for setting up societies, and how we can make this information more accessible for disabled students.

Many were keen on the idea (as other Union’s also offer this kind of society). They liked that it would give them informal way to meet other students who face similar difficulties, and would help them in making friends. Gathering people to start the society may mean going to the existing Asperger’s Group run by DDS (that’s once a month or termly I believe), then I can take down contact details of those interested.

10%

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the processes of setting up the society, and support in place (e.g. helping the students with the constitution, with elections and upping membership) 50%





agenda - brunel students · 1 agenda student assembly (accountability) meeting: sa01 date: tuesday...

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