My name is Elle (she/her), a third-year Psychology student. I am standing for Welfare, Community and Diversity officer. You may recognise me as one of the Advice(su) community support assistants, where I have been involved in lots of initiatives supporting UEA student life. 

If elected my action plan is: 

Student wellbeing 

Problem: As of 2021, the university employs 45 people to provide support for students’ mental health wellbeing. For a population of around 17,161 students, this is simply not enough!

Solution:  The university should revaluate the funding for mental health and counselling as this will support student life and will have a direct impact on students physical and mental wellbeing as well as academic achievement. Introducing termly mental health weeks focussing on self-care

Problem: Students feel unsafe on campus. Between 2016-2020, 113 transphobic hate crimes were reported in Norfolk. 

Solution: I would like to work alongside Norwich clubs and charities to ensure that all students feel safe on nights out. One way to do this would be to have the return of ‘Reclaim the Night’ a campaign for better and safer streets and to raise awareness of sexual harassment. The university should also be open about reporting spiking and other incidents that occur during club nights. Continue the work of the current Welfare officer in representing and supporting the LGBTQ community and being an ally against racism. 

A place for everyone 

Problem: There are issues relating to inclusivity and accessibility at our university.

Solution: Students should not be excluded from opportunities and should feel part of a community. Introducing strobe-free nights making the LCR more autism and epilepsy friendly. Continue the 

Problem: Over 30% of student bodies commute to campus, of which most feel there is no space for them to relax. 

Solution: Providing a designated lounge for student commuters. A social space to meet others in a similar situation, a place to have lunch, do work, and fill the gap between lectures. UEA should acknowledge students that commute and improve the parking assignment system. 

A university that is ours: 

Our university is proud to have such a diverse community of students. However, this is not reflected in the university environment. Students should be able to see their artwork around campus, have the chance to perform their music and have access to food that represents the diversity them.

Why vote for me? 

I have dedicated a substantial amount of my own time researching students’ issues with the university, I would like to bring these issues to light. While the current Welfare officer has achieved a lot, there is still lots to be done and this is only a brief overview of what I would like to change.  Everyone should enjoy their time at university and see it as the best years of their lives. As Welfare officer, I would put every effort towards making this true for everyone. Thank you for reading my manifesto and please get in contact with me to ask any questions you may have.