I believe it is vital that all students can access education from the same starting line. Where this isn’t possible, I will be relentless in campaigning for changes, big and small, to create an equitable learning environment. Voting for me is voting for your fellow students to learn equally!
Financial support and employment opportunities for all students:
QWork is the hub for employment opportunities at Queen’s, and too many students aren’t aware of it. I will introduce training for new and current students on this and ensure internal jobs are advertised widely. This will help students financially, provide flexible working hours, and reduce bias against groups such as international students that can exist in external jobs. I will increase the frequency and awareness of free breakfasts and lunches to help with the cost of living for students. I want to set up a database for students to share external employment opportunities that work around study schedules.
Quiet afternoons once a week in the Mandela Hall, SU:
There is a lack of study spaces in QUB, especially around exam season. I want to provide a regular space, initially once per week, with more desks, no music, and adjusted lighting for students needing a quiet study space, and a relaxing environment to decompress. It will also be tailored to neurodivergent students’ needs, where sensory sensitivities are considered and support resources are provided.
Events and support in the SU for mature students, parents and carers:
Mature students and students with care commitments often live further away from Queen’s, have less time to spend on campus, and cannot access SU events and support as readily as others. I want to provide an equally immersive student experience for everyone, via events for fun, networking, wellbeing support and socialising at times that meet the needs of mature students and those who are carers, and are of interest to them. I want to hear students’ voices on this and provide exactly what they need.
Expanding and refreshing facilities on campus to suit all:
I am going to improve facilities for disabled students and staff, including accessibility to buildings, education on respecting disabled spaces including toilets, such as the importance of not tampering with emergency cords, and keeping bathrooms clean and well kept. I will expand the provision of free period products on campus to ensure they are in every bathroom, including mens’ and disabled toilets, so everyone can exercise their right to a dignified period, transgender men and disabled people included. I will introduce more gender neutral toilets on campus, similar to those in the SU, so everyone can feel comfortable, especially gender non-conforming students and staff.