Recently, one of your Guild Officers, Thomas, visited the House of Lords to discuss issues faced by international students. As your Communities and Equality Officer, it is part of Thomas’ role to fight for student-led change, so alongside other student officers from various universities, the Russell Group Student Union collective allowed them to come together to talk about issues affecting students across the country, and advocate for change.
During Thomas’ visit to Parliament, he and other elected student representatives used student data and direct feedback on ways to improve international students’ education experience, bringing concerns directly to people in Government. For example, they spoke about granting disabled student allowances to international students, as currently they cannot receive it, despite paying approximately £2000 annually to access the NHS. Thomas and other student officers also spoke of ending the type of work restrictions that come with a student visa since at present, you cannot get income from self-employment, entertainment or gig work when you have one. Thomas advocated for the abolition of guarantors, a system that disproportionately affects international students looking for affordable housing, and they also called for the Government to improve accessibility standards across campuses and curriculums. Finally, Thomas addressed the limitations of both family and skilled worker visas, and the barrier these provide for recent graduates, and the group collectively looked for solutions to these problems.
By being an Officer, Thomas can engage in productive conversations like this, and advocate for the kinds of change we as students would like to see. It is empowering knowing our concerns as students can be heard in spaces like Parliament due to the efforts of our student Officers. Advocacy doesn’t stop there however, as student officers work continuously throughout the year to take on student feedback and improve our university life.
With Change Week approaching here at Exeter, now is your chance to shape your future. Following on from our Student Elections nominations, candidates have just been announced, with voting open from 10 March. Voting for an Officer you feel represented by and who will make the changes you want to see is crucial, and one of the most important things you can do to shape your student experience! Whether it be living costs, job prospects, or campus events, elections are a chance for you to elect an Officer who can make real change, so make sure you take action and spark change by voting for your next student officers during Change Week.