James Shannon.

Candidate for VP Societies & Sport

Hi there – I’m James and I’m hopefully your next VP! The 2021-2022 period will undoubtedly be strange for many groups recovering from a year of difficulty, however I am determined to support all student groups as they explode back into action. My five action points to ensure groups are successful and prepared for an amazing year are to:

SUPPORT each student group through their unique challenges by...

• Working with presidents to create information packs on how to run a certain type of event (such as balls, productions, and trips at home and abroad).
• Creating standardised procedures for groups who want to use off-campus spaces, including offering contractual support and setting up dialogue with said spaces.

ASSESS how to best support newly ratified groups by...

• Ensuring that committee training sessions and resources are available after the initial training in summer.
• Offering regular advice sessions for those who are interested in starting a new group, but may not know where to begin.
• Committing to attending at least one event run by each newly ratified group per term.

INVESTIGATE allowing greater financial freedom to student groups by...

• Reviewing the SU’s financial policies, while surveying general opinion with how accounts and finances are managed.
• Looking into the possibility of groups transferring funds between their accounts, including out of the restricted section.
• Exploring the opportunities for groups to receive new and exciting grants to improve members’ experiences.

UPLIFT the activities of student groups which focus on particular identities and issues by...

• Using the platform available to a Sabb to highlight the work of all student groups; particularly those which focus around marginalised communities.
• Ensuring that the SU does all it can to create a safe campus, especially through cultural, religious, and identity-based societies.
• Creating a weekly post in which important student group events are celebrated, especially if they coincide with special occasions.

REVITALISE student groups which have struggled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic by...

• Reassessing the controversial Sports Pass, working with Sport committees to find a solution which works for both the Sports Centre and for clubs.
• Offering more training days throughout first term, in anticipation of an increase in co-opted committee members.
• Investigating the possibility of a ‘Revitalisation Grant’, where student groups may apply to the SU for a little help to get into a firmer place after the pandemic.