Since starting the role in July, I’ve been working hard to get the hang of this unique job and hit the ground running to make life better for our students. We’ve had lots of training since then, as well as Trustee Chair-specific training that I’ve been doing to support my role as the SU Rep (Governance).

I went to an SU governance event run by NUS in Liverpool with our CEO and Deputy Chair, where we discussed the best ways to approach governance. I’m hoping to explain more about how governance works this year, so watch this space.

Speaking of governance, I’ve also been working with the University Board of Governors, attending meetings where important decisions affecting students are made. It’s important that there is a student voice in these meetings, and I’m pleased to bring that perspective.

We’ve also been interviewing applicants for a new External Trustee for the SU Board, and we’ve had great candidates. I’m excited to work with the successful applicant.

It’s not governance all the time though! We went to Leeds for the NUS Lead and Change event, where we met officers from other students’ unions and received training on creating change for students. It was interesting to chat to people from across the student movement.

We’ve also had planning meetings here at Lancashire SU, both as a Rep Team and with other departments. It’s been inspiring to get to know the teams that keep our Union running and see what’s coming up this year.

Emma and I also went along to Disability Pride at Preston Flag Market, which was a great opportunity to build links with local organisations. We’ve also had visits from local politicians to talk about issues facing students.

Outside the SU, I’ve been campaigning for more accessible pavements and improving local buses, as well as speaking about poverty, welfare and student voice at various events.