Tuesday 09-02-2021 - 09:22

Bristol SU has 18 Networks which are led by students and work to build communities and create change through collective action. They are representative bodies that can lead campaigns, hold forums and organise social events.

Every year our Network Chairs work to make things better for the students they represent with passion and conviction. This year our Networks have been more important than ever in uniting students through the pandemic, and ensuring all students are still feel part of our SU community.

 

Our networks have risen to the challenge of this year, here are just a few of the highlights...

 

Wellbeing Network Buddy Scheme

The Wellbeing Network launched a University-wide Buddy Scheme. This is open to every and all students and is a great way to connect with, talk to and meet new people. Over 400 students have already joined! This has enabled students to meet new people and make friends in an otherwise quite isolating time!

 

Covid care packages and Graduation Bursaries for Care Leavers and Estranged Students

The Care Leavers and Estranged Students Network successfully secured funding for graduation bursaries for care experienced and estranged students which includes graduation gown hire and a meal voucher - watch this video to find out more! The network also worked hard to provide care packages for students during coronavirus, especially for those students who do not have alternative homes to turn to outside of term time.

 

Disabled Students Network Academic Mitigations

Our Disabled Students Network worked closely with Bristol SU's full time officers to lobby the university for comprehensive academic support packages for students in light of the ongoing effects of the pandemic. The Disabled Students Network successfully secured automatic 2-day extensions for students with Alternative Exam Arrangements (AEAs), from 7 days to 9. 

 

Volunteering and Fundraising Network Foodbank Drive

When the pandemic began, Bristol SU's Volunteering and Fundraising Network sprung into action organising a food bank drive to support Bristol's community. They collected food from students and the general public, and distributed it to food banks across the city.

 

Black History Month

The Bristol SU BAME Network led a month of online events and campaigns in collaboration with black societies including ACS, Afrolit and Black Muslims Society. This year's campaign held the theme of 'Our Past, Present and Future'. The BAME Network organised an amazing range of speaker events, panels, and workshops that were open to all Bristol students and staff. 

 

Disability History Month

Bristol SU's Disabled Students' Network programmed a month of online events and campaigns, including art exhibitions, spoken word events, and panel talks. These were open to all students, and explored the experiences of disabled students at The University of Bristol. 

 

Reclaim

Every year women across the world take to the streets to Reclaim the Night. Protesting for womxn's safety, and against sexual harassment. This year, with no physical marches taking place, Bristol SU Women's Network asked students 'What Empowers You?' and created a powerful video of the responses - you can watch it here!

 

If you're feeling inspired, or have ideas about campaigns and events you'd like to run at Bristol SU, why not nominate yourself to be one of our next Bristol SU Network Chairs!

We need creative and driven students to lead Bristol SU's networks through the next year, and to being together Bristol's student communities through common interest and collective action.

 

Find out more about the available roles here, and nominate yourself here!