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JCR Meeting 2020.02.02 (2.1)

JCR Meeting 2020-02-02

Setting: In a fairly packed dining hall, featuring a horse shoe of tables.

Raffle prizes include a bottle of wine, a lovely painting, a t-shirt with the lyrics to angels written on it and a left over painting by SM from Freshers’ Week. Everything comes with an out of date lanyard.

Pizza is provided, but arrives slightly late.

Present: (Ethnic Minorities Rep), JC (Vice-President), KB (JRO), (President), AJ (Librarian), SP (SRO), BT (JRO), (Outreach Comm & Welfare Campaigns), EE (International Rep), CG (Communications Officer), RJ (FCO), MW (Social Chair), BC (Welfare Campaigns), KS (International Comm), RSD (Student Trustee), (Welfare Campaigns), JR (Facilities Manager), SM (Postgraduate and Mature Students’ Committee Chair), NN (PGM Social Sec), (SU Rep), (Welfare Campaigns Manager), (Student Trustee), LE (Social Comm), SWC (Chair), EC, (LGBT+ Rep), (Senior Welfare Officer), JS (Working Class Students’ Rep), (Students with Disabilities Rep), OT (4th Year Rep), EW (Social Comm), (Feast Manager), EG (Assistant Students with Disabilities Rep), AG (Social Comm), MR (Ethnic Minorities Rep), HR (Social Comm), AH (Female Welfare Officer), (Sports & Societies Chair), CP (Bailey Wardrobe Manager), KM (Finance Comm), HH (PG Welfare Rep), (Finance Comm & Outreach Comm), SW (Assistant Bar Steward Brooks), SA (Outreach Chair), ÁB (PG International Rep), (Assistant LGBT+ Rep), PJ (Social Comm), (Music Rep), WB (Head Frep), AL, SG (JRO), RH (Outreach Comm), DB (Finance Comm), AI, , , CK, DT (Student Trustee), TA, AM, LN, BP, , EO, , , IS, MS, TP, (Postgrad Academic Rep)

Apologies: HB (Welfare Campaigns), LM (Welfare Campaigns), AK (Social Comm), SS (Michaelmas Ball Manager), MT (SU Rep), EJ (SU Rep), JW (PGM Vice-President), (Social Comm), (Welfare Campaigns), JZ (International Welfare Rep), MP, HO, RS, WE (Stool), CA (Year Out and Placement Liason Officer), AA, LD (Welfare Campaigns)

Absent: WN (Keeper of the Glass Bell), SR (Finance Comm), LB (Outreach Comm), HT (Outreach Comm), (Outreach Comm), BD (PGM Treasurer), LJ (Social Comm), LA (Welfare Campaigns), OW (Male Welfare Officer), AS (Welfare Campaigns), OB (Welfare Campaigns), CW, LMV

Agenda

Motions

Supporting a Beef Ban at Durham University

Communications Officer and Local Students

Amended VonCs

Joke Motions

Finance

Communities Officer

Elections

Method IV

Keeper of the Couplets

Method II

Sports & Societies Reporter x2

Postgraduate Rep

Green Machine and Hires Manager

Webmaster

Environment Rep

Mature Students’ Rep

Transgender and Non-Binary Rep

Assistant Working Class Students’ Rep

Music Events and Publicities Officer

Method I

DUCK Rep

Welfare Campaigns Manager

Vice President

Finance & Compliance Officer

President of the Society

Minutes of previous meeting

*Passed on a general aye*

Reports

President

Vice-President

Finance & Compliance Officer

Social Chair

Librarian

Senior Welfare Officer

International Rep

Outreach Committee Chair

Volunteering:

Fundraising:

Postgraduate and Mature Students’ Committee Chair

Sports and Societies Chair

Commmunications Officer

Communicating

 

Housing

 

SU stuff

 

I’m also working with CA and her committee on the Year abroad handbook which we made a fun structure for and I’m just gonna put it all together for them.

 

Again if you want to chat with me about my role or anything i do please chat to me because i love it all and i love chatting about what i love and i love cuths.

Facilities Manager

This term and at the end of last term I’ve continued making sure that all the tech is properly inventoried. I’ve been in discussion with about how to make the music room and music hires more effective so that there is less damage done. The gyms have been inspected and passed, which is great, and we got rid of the pec fly machine in the bailey gym. We have a proper spreadsheet now for booking equipment so that things don’t get double booked and so that we always know where tech and various Cuth’s equipment is. I’m going to be putting hireable equipment on DurTech as well so that we have some extra income into facilities through wider university hires.

Chair

Vice Chair of Trustees

Motions

Supporting a Beef Ban at Durham University

This JCR Notes

 

This JCR Believes

 

This JCR Resolves 

 

Proposed: CW

Seconded: LMV

Discussion

CW isn’t present.

: There are a number of facts about meat consumption in the UK. The motion is to decide if the JCR would support moves by the University to ban beef. It would require us to write a letter to the vice chancellor on behalf of Cuth’s students in favour of the ban.

*EE proposes procedural motion to postpones this motion to the next meeting.*

*Passed on a general aye, discussion of this motion is delayed.*

Communications Officer and Local Students

This JCR Notes:

This JCR Believes:

This JCR Repeals:

This JCR Orders:

“Positions in the JCR”, Article 1, 3.19.2 (5) “Run a housing talk in the latter half of October as well as providing regular housing  information to students throughout the year i.e housing information campaigns and drop-ins”

“Positions in the JCR”, Article 1, 3.19.2 (6) “Maintain Cuth’s Housing Network or equivalent to support Cuth’s students in finding housemates”

“Positions in the JCR”, Article 1

18.8 “Local Students’ Rep”

18.8.1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 3.1.

18.8.2. Their duties shall be to:

1) Represent the views and concerns of local students to the JCR, and

2) Sit ex-officio on SU Committee.

Proposer: CG

Seconder: SP

Discussion

CG: Basically, I wanted to update the standing orders for my role because it’s relatively new and day to day it’s been quite different to what the standing orders say. I don’t feel comfortable representing local students so I’m making a local students rep who will sit on SU comm and help make the JCR more accessible to them. I’m also including more in the role of communications officer about housing.

JR: Most minority reps are on welfare comm. Why would this one be on SU comm?

CG: I think this role is more about providing input for wider issues, which SU comm deals with. It’s not really a welfare role.

JR: If there’s not much demand, I don’t see this role being filled.

CG: I think it’s important that local students are represented, just because no one has expressed interest doesn’t mean it shouldn’t exist.

: We have a trans and non-binary rep that isn’t currently filled but it’s important that we have the role there to give people the chance to speak.

: Do you feel there’s a chance that we might end up singling out this group of people even more?

CG: We already have lots of reps for various student groups. I don’t think it singles them out. I think it’s more important to give them the voice.

EC: Why did you choose to make it ex-officio?

CG: I think it’s more important for it to be filled than sitting on SU comm. Most ex-officio members already come. I wouldn’t expect this role to do any organisational work.

: Where would say is the local community? Do you not think that we already have lots of minority representations that these people might fall into?

CG: None of our current minority reps are necessarily synonymous with being a local student. I would say a local student is county Durham, within the community that’s affected by the University. It’s important to remember that the University is one of the biggest powers in the local community.

: Procedural motion to split the motion and discuss the local students’ rep separately to the changes to the communications officer job description.

*Procedural motion passes*

*No opposition to changes to communications officer job description, passed on a general aye*

*Discussion continues of the creation of local students’ rep*

JS: I’m ex-officio on SU comm, and my experience of working class students is that they’ll always being different to living in and around Durham. Having someone able to speak from that perspective would be helpful.

EE: Why does have it to be a rep and not a consultative role? I think that person should consult with local residents about what we’re doing.

: I think it’s good, but I think they should also sit on the new communities committee.

: That will be an amendment to the motion later.

*Opposition to the motion so a vote is called*

*Motion passes*

Amended VonCs

This JCR notes

This JCR believes

This JCR repeals

s4 Terms of Office standing order

Once a Motion of No Confidence has met the proposing and seconding requirements, a Vote of No Confidence shall be called. This shall follow the rules for voting in election Method (I) vote except that it shall also require a two thirds majority of votes cast in order to be considered valid.

a) The vote shall be overseen by the SRO, except in cases where they are the Officer in question in which case their duty shall pass to the President of the Society pro tem.

This JCR orders

Terms of Office order

4.1 Once a Motion of No Confidence has met the proposing and seconding requirements, a Vote of No Confidence shall be called. The following process will be held for the vote-

4.1.1 In case of a Motion of No Confidence in a Method 1 position the vote will be carried ut by the rules and processes of a Method 1 vote.

4.1.2 In case of a Motion of No Confidence in a Method 2 position the vote will be carried out by the rules and processes of a Method 2 vote in the meeting.

4.1.3 In case of a Motion of No Confidence in a Method 3 position the vote will be carried out by the rules and processes of a Method 2 vote in the meeting.

4.1.4 In case of a Motion of No Confidence in a Method 4 position the vote will be carried out by the rules and processes of a Method 4 election in the meeting.

4.2 For the vote to carry through the vote for the motion should pass by a 2/3rds majority in the Motions for Method 1, 2 and 3, and through a deemed simple majority for a vote of no confidence in a holder of a Method 4 position.

4.3 The voting will be overseen by the SRO, except in cases where they are the Officer in question in which case their duty shall pass on to the President of the Society Pro Tem.

Proposed- SP

Seconded- JC

Discussion

SP: Last meeting we had a Method I VonC for a Method IV Position. We’re proposing that VonCs are carried out by the method the role is elected by. Method IV positions will be VonCed by screaming.

: Do the rules for seconders still apply?

SP: Yes. Method III is done through Method II voting because it could create a toxic environment by dealing with it within the committee.

*No opposition, motion passed on a general aye*

Joke Motions

This JCR notes: 

This JCR believes: 

This JCR orders: 

Meetings of the JCR Order:

12. Joke Motions

12.1 “Joke motion” refers to any motion deemed not wholly serious by the Chair and serves to lighten the atmosphere.

12.1.1 The Chair must decide at the beginning of a meeting whether any motions will be defined as ‘joke motions’.

12.1.2 The total amount of time dedicated to each joke motion within a meeting, including questions and amendments shall be limited to five minutes maximum

12.1.3 In discussion of a joke motion, the JCR Stool has the responsibility of indicating when five minutes have elapsed.

12.1.4 This order will not apply to the final meeting of third term, which is intended exclusively for joke motions.

Proposer: AH

Seconder: CK

Discussion

AH: Joke motions are fun and can lighten the atmosphere, but often they run for a lot longer than intended and it’s a waste of people’s time. I’m proposing we limit the time that joke motions are discussed for.

*No questions or opposition, motion passed on a general aye*

Finance

This JCR notes:

 

This JCR believes:

 

This JCR repeals:

 

(Positions in the JCR order)

 

3.5. The Executive Committee may approve expenditure up to the value of £100 and may make recommendations to Finance Committee that expenditure up to the value of £300 is incurred

 

5.1.5. The Finance Committee shall have the power to approve any expenditure, recommended by the Executive Committee, up to the value of £300.

 

This JCR orders:

 

3.5. The Executive Committee may approve expenditure up to the value of £100 and may make recommendations to Finance Committee that expenditure up to the value of £500 is incurred

 

5.1.5. The Finance Committee shall have the power to approve any expenditure, recommended by the Executive Committee, up to the value of £500.

 

Proposer: RJ

Seconder:

Discussion

RJ: Currently finance comm can approve expenditure up to £300. I want to increase that to £500. It consists of 4 members who are elected by the JCR. It means I wouldn’t need to nring that to a JCR meeting.

*No Questions or opposition, motion passed on a general aye*

Communities Officer

This JCR Notes

This JCR Believes

This JCR Repeals

From Electable Positions in the JCR Article 1:

3.2.11 “International Representative”

3.7.8.5 “International Representative”

3.7.9.3 “International Representative”

3.14 “International Representative…”

6.3 “Students with Disabilities Representative…”

6.4 “LGBT+ Representative…”

6.5 “Ethnic Minority Representative…”

6.6 “Working Class Students’ Representative…”

7.1.4. clauses 6-16 (All minority Representatives, assistant minority Representatives, international welfare rep and welfare campaigns managers from welfare campaigns)

7.1.4.1 “Postgraduate and Mature Students Committee Chair and International Representative are invited to attend.”

7.3 “Assistant Students with Disabilities Representative…”

7.4 “Assistant LGBT+ Representative…”

7.5 “Assistant Ethnic Minority Representative…”

7.7 “International Welfare Representative…”

7.6 “Assistant Working Class Students’ Representative…”

7.8 “Transgender and Non-Binary Representative…”

3.1.3.2.2 “Supervise the activities of the Male Welfare Officer, Female Welfare Officer, Campaign Team Managers and Minority Representatives (i.e. Ethnic Minority, LGBT+, Students with Disabilities)”

12.1.4.5 “Association Reps”

12.1.4.7 “International Representative”

This JCR Orders

Terms of Office Order

1.5.4 Working Class Students’ Representative

1.5.5 International Representative

Electable Positions in the JCR Article 1:

6.1.4.10 International Representative

7.1.4.6 Welfare Campaigns Manager

7.1.4.7 Students with Disabilities Representative (ex-officio)

7.1.4.8 Working Class Students’ Representative (ex-officio)

7.1.4.9 LGBT+ Representative (ex-officio)

7.1.4.10 Ethnic Minorities Representative (ex-officio)

7.1.4.11 Year Abroad and Placement Representative (ex-officio),

3.1.3.2.2 “Supervise the activities of the Male Welfare Officer, Female Welfare Officer and Campaign Team Manager”

3.1.3.2.9 Assist and support the Campaign Team Manager with organising campaigns

3.1.3.2.10 Collaborate with the communities officer and minority Representatives to arrange and run consent and inclusivity workshops during Freshers’ Week

3.2.11 Communities Officer

3.7.8.5 Communities Officer

3.7.9.3 Communities Officer

3.14 Communities Officer

  1. Elected via Method I Meeting 2.3
  2. Their duties shall be to:
    1. Chair the communities committee
    2. Supervise and assist with all activities relating to minority Representatives, helping to organise campaigns and events where appropriate
    3. Organise and run international freshers’ week, with the help and guidance of the international Representative
    4. Collaborate with the senior welfare officer and minority Representatives to arrange and run consent and inclusivity workshops during Freshers’ Week
    5. Collate and discuss views of minority Representatives and wider concerns from minority communities, and bring these forward to the executive committee, SU committee and any other suitable bodies.
    6. Consult with communities committee about meetings of Assembly, then attend and vote at SU comm, bringing forward all issues which have been raised by minority Representatives.
    7. Organise campaigns on issues which affect JCR students, collaborating with other organisations where appropriate.
  3. Candidates for this role should identify as part of a minority group

14 Communities Committee

  1. There shall exist a communities committee
    1. It shall be responsible for
      1. Organising campaigns and events which provide a community for people who are members of minorities.
      2. Organising campaigns and events which educate JCR members on issues related to minority groups.
      3. Ensuring that members of minority groups have their voices heard in all relevant discussions, groups and undertakings in the JCR.
      4. Facilitating discussion and collaboration between the minority Representatives
      5. Advising the Communities Officer of any concerns raised by members of minority groups that need to be brought forward to other groups, including but not limited to the executive committee and SU committee
    2. It shall be called by the Communities Officer
    3. It shall be chaired by the Communities Officer and minuted by the Vice-President
    4. It shall meet a minimum of twice per term
    5. It shall meet before each meeting of SU committee, unless unanimous agreement is reached among the committee that such a meeting is not necessary, so that any relevant issues which need to be brought forward by the communities officer can be discussed
    6. It shall consist of:
      1. Communities Officer
      2. President of the Society
      3. Vice-President
      4. Students with Disabilities Representative
      5. Working Class Students’ Representative
      6. LGBT+ Representative
      7. Ethnic Minorities Representative
      8. International Representative
      9. Assistant Students with Disabilities Representative
      10. Assistant Working Class Students’ Representative
      11. Assistant LGBT+ Representative
      12. Transgender and Non-Binary Representative
      13. Assistant Ethnic Minorities Representative
      14. Assistant International Representative
  2. Student with Disabilities Representative
    1. Elected via: Method I, Meeting 3.1.
    2. 3.2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Act as a representative for JCR members with a mental or physical disability,
      2. Help to provide access to welfare and support to those students who may require it,
      3. Raise issues relating to students with disabilities during Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings, communities committee meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Campaign and raise awareness for issues that may affect students with disabilities,
      5. Provide support to the Welfare team as requested,
      6. Undertake Nightline training ahead of Induction Week. They should have the opportunity to represent the college either as a Welfare Freshers’ Rep or a Freshers’ Rep should they choose to. They must be available to help the welfare team on required evenings during Freshers’ Week even should they not choose to be a Freshers’ Rep,
      7. Provide a handover to the incoming Students with Disabilities Representative,
      8. Liaise with the Durham University Disability Support as well as the SwDA (Students with Disabilities Association) with the SU when necessary and attend any relevant training by the SwDA,
      9. Be available for a maximum of 2 drop-in hours per week in appropriate locations, or via email, to all JCR members who identify as having a mental or physical disability to act as a listening and signposting service, and
      10. Attend relevant training events, including Nightline training, Active Bystander training, and Confidentiality and Disclosure training.
    3. This is not a counselling position.
  3. LGBT+ Representative
    1. Elected via: Method I, Meeting 3.1.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who identify as LGBT+,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members who identify as LGBT+,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who identify as LGBT+, and raise said issues in welfare committee meetings, JCR meetings, communities committee meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Provide support to the Welfare team as requested,
      5. Undertake Nightline training ahead of Induction Week. They should have the opportunity to represent the college either as a Welfare Freshers’ Rep or a Freshers’ Rep should they choose to. They must be available to help the welfare team on required evenings during Fresher’s week even should they not choose to be a Freshers’ Rep,
      6. Provide a handover to the incoming LGBT+ Representative,
      7. Liaise with the Durham University LGBT+ Association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU LGBT+ Association,
      8. Be available for a maximum of 2 drop-in hours per week in appropriate locations, or via email, to all JCR members who identify as being LGBT+ to act as a listening and signposting service, and
      9. Attend relevant training events, including Nightline training, Active Bystander training, and Confidentiality and Disclosure training.
    3. This is not a counselling position
  4. Ethnic Minority Representative
    1. Elected via: Method I, Meeting 3.1.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who are ethnic minorities,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members who are ethnic minorities,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who are ethnic minorities, and raise said issues in welfare committee meetings JCR meetings, communities committee meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Provide support to the Welfare team as requested,
      5. Undertake Nightline training ahead of Induction Week. They should have the opportunity to represent the college either as a Welfare Freshers’ Rep or a Freshers’ Rep should they choose to. They must be available to help the welfare team on required evenings during fresher’s week even should they not choose to be a Freshers’ Rep,
      6. Provide a handover to the incoming Ethnic Minority Representative,
      7. Liaise with the Durham People of Colour (PoC) Association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU PoC Association,
      8. Be available for a maximum of 2 drop-in hours per week in appropriate locations, or via email, to all JCR members who identify as being an ethnic minority to act as a listening and signposting service, and
      9. Attend relevant training events, including Nightline training, Active Bystander training, and Confidentiality and Disclosure training.
    3. This is not a counselling position.
  5. Working Class Students’ Representative
    1. Elected via: Method I, Meeting 3.1.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR Members who are working class,
      2. Help to provide access to welfare and support to those students who may require it,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who identify as working class, and raise said issues in welfare committee meetings, JCR meetings, communities committee meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Provide support to the Welfare team as requested,
      5. Raise awareness for issues that may affect working class students, especially in JCR meetings, as well as promoting initiatives to make Cuth’s more financially accessible,
      6. Liaise with the Durham Working Class Students Association when necessary, and
      7. Help to provide safe spaces for JCR members who identify as working class.
      8. Provide a handover to the incoming Working Class Students’ Representative,
      9. Be available for a maximum of 2 drop-in hours per week in appropriate locations, or via email, to all JCR members who identify as being working class to act as a listening and signposting service, and
      10. Attend relevant training events, including Nightline training, Active Bystander training, and Confidentiality and Disclosure training.
    3. This is not a counselling position
  6. International Representative
    1. Elected via: Method I, Meeting 3.1.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views and concerns of international students
      2. Liaise with the International Office,
      3. Help to provide access to welfare and support to those students who may require it,
      4. Provide support to the Welfare team as requested,
      5. Provide a handover to the incoming International Students’ Representative,
      6. Be available for a maximum of 2 drop-in hours per week in appropriate locations, or via email, to all international JCR members to act as a listening and signposting service, and
      7. Attend relevant training events, including Nightline training, Active Bystander training, and Confidentiality and Disclosure training.
      8. Organise, under the supervision of and with the assistance of the communities officer, the welcome of international students to St. Cuthbert’s Society,
      9. Organise the compilation and distribution of information relevant to new international students at St. Cuthbert’s Society,
      10. Liaise with Durham International Students’ Association when necessary
      11. Undertake Nightline training ahead of Induction Week. They should have the opportunity to represent the college either as a Welfare Freshers’ Rep or a Freshers’ Rep should they choose to. They must be available to help the welfare team on required evenings during fresher’s week even should they not choose to be a Freshers’ Rep,
      12. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect international JCR members, and raise said issues in welfare committee meetings, JCR meetings, communities committee meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      13. Organise events aimed at (but not necessarily limited to) international students throughout the year (including ‘holiday periods’), and
      14. Chair International Committee.
  7. Assistant Students with Disabilities Representative
    1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 1.2.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Act as a representative for JCR members with a mental or physical disability,
      2. Help to provide access to welfare and support to those students who may require it,
      3. Raise issues relating to students with disabilities during Communities committee meetings, Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Campaign and raise awareness for issues that may affect students with disabilities,
      5. Liaise with the Durham University Disability Support as well as the SwDA (Students with Disabilities Association) with the SU when necessary and attend any relevant training by the SwDA,
      6. Provide a handover to the incoming Assistant Students with Disabilities Rep.
    3. The overseer for this role if this becomes a Method III Application position shall be the Communities Officer.
  8. Assistant LGBT+ Representative
    1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 1.2.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who identify as LGBT+,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members who identify as LGBT+,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who identify as LGBT+, and raise said issues during Communities committee meetings, Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Liaise with the Durham University LGBT+ Association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU LGBT+ association, and
      5. Provide a handover to the incoming Assistant LGBT+ Representative.
    3. The overseer for this role if this becomes a Method III Application position shall be the Communities Officer.
  9. Transgender and Non-Binary Representative
    1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 1.2.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who identify as Transgender and Non-Binary,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members who identify as Transgender and Non-Binary,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who identify as Transgender and Non-Binary, and raise said issues during Communities committee meetings, Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Liaise with the Durham University Trans association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU Trans association, and
      5. Provide a handover to the incoming Transgender and Non-Binary Students Representative.
    3. The overseer for this role if this becomes a Method III Application position shall be the Communities Officer.
  10. Assistant Ethnic Minority Representative
    1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 1.2.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who are ethnic minorities,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members who are ethnic minorities,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who are ethnic minorities, and raise said issues during Communities committee meetings, Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Liaise with the Durham People of Colour Association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU PoC Association, and
      5. Provide a handover to the incoming Assistant Ethnic Minority Representative.
    3. The overseer for this role if this becomes a Method III Application position shall be the Communities Officer.
  11. Assistant Working Class Student’s Representative
    1. Elected via: Method II, Meeting 1.2.
    2. Their duties shall be to:
      1. Represent the views of JCR members who self-identify as working class,
      2. Help provide safe spaces for JCR members self-identify as working class,
      3. Campaign and raise awareness of issues that may affect JCR members who self-identify as working class, and raise said issues during Communities committee meetings, Welfare Committee meetings, JCR meetings and with the Executive Committee as necessary and consider ways to accommodate to the needs of those students at college-run events,
      4. Liaise with the Durham Working Class Students Association when necessary and attend any relevant training by the DSU WCS Association, and
      5. Provide a handover to the incoming Assistant Working Class Students Representative.
    3. The overseer for this role if this becomes a Method III Application position shall be the Communities Officer.

12.1.4.5 Communities Officer

This JCR Resolves

This JCR Mandates

Proposer: JC

Seconder: ,

Discussion

JC: In recent years, minority reps have grown massively in visibility and productivity, and we’d like to restructure to support them better. We’d also like to separate their operations from welfare so that welfare can also focus on other things. This motion would remove the international rep from the exec, and turn them into a minority rep, without changing international comm. There will then be a new exec position called the communities officer, which will chair a new committee made up of the minority reps. This will mean that there is an exec member with direct responsibility for supporting the minority reps. I appreciate the name might become confusing, but we’re planning to change it soon.

: Amendment to add the local students rep to this position

*No opposition or questions to the amendment, passed on general aye*

ÁB: How will this affect international freshers’ week

JC: It will be organised by collaboration between communities officer and international rep

KS: Won’t it dilute the power of minority reps if the communities officer doesn’t represent everyone?

: That’s already currently the case, currently senior welfare officer represents minority views.

: will all the reps be represented by communities officer or will it be welfare too?

JC: They will be ex-officio on welfare campaigns but their main job will be on communities committee

: Will the international rep also sit on SU comm?

: Yes

EE: I’m concerned that there won’t be enough international representation during freshers’ week.

: POI we try to have every team with an international student as practice during selecting freps

EE: Amended that international committee will have guaranteed frep positions

: Encouraging international comm to apply will be better and we will support them.

JC: Amendment is not in the scope of my motion

JS: As a minority rep the international rep will automatically frep.

DT: It’s too much responsibility for one person who can’t represent all the diversity to voice everyone’s views, this is too much for one person and the challenges are too much and would only lead to neglect.

: It’s not feasible to have as many exec roles if every minority is given a seat

: Welfare and minorities is already a lot of work to do, but this is better as the minorities will have their own committee and exec member.

: We should rethink this and come back next meeting with a better way to do it.

: It doesn’t make sense to have welfare, SU and other committees to represent us as opposed to one person who just deals with minority concerns on their own, this is just a better structure

: If you’re having this communities officer who is going to be about listening to the reps they’ll be more of a listener. They would be mandated to listen and collaborate with the other minorities reps, it’s the best way to deal with it.

: Do they have to be a part of minority

JC: it says they should identify as part of a minority group, not necessarily one we already have a rep for. It’s deliberately weak because we don’t want to tell people whether or not they are part of a minority group, but we want to make the point that they should be.

ÁB: I oppose it because I’m worried about how international students representation will be dealt with. And it may put off international students from running for exec roles as most members are usually home students.

*Motion passed*

Elections

Method IV

Keeper of the Couplets

Nominations for , RSD, , TA, AM, SM, LN, DT, JC, BP, EW, JR, SP and

Complete silence in the voting for and JC.

* elected*

Method II

Sports & Societies Reporter x2

Candidates

Request New Candidates

Husts

:

My name’s A?, I study international relations. This role sounds quite fun. I do a few societies, and I think it’s important to communicate what other groups are doing. I do a lot of writing anyway and I has in charge of the newspaper at my school. I also write for the tab.

Questions

EO: How will you divide your time between all the sports?

A?: I don’t have many contact hours, and I think it’s important to prioritise, particularly with smaller societies.

: What’s your favourite method of reporting?

A?: Instagram story.

*A? is elected*

Postgraduate Rep

No Candidates

Green Machine and Hires Manager

No Candidates

Webmaster

Candidates

KS

Request New Candidates

Husts

KS:

I have a degree in computer science and web design and management. I’ve managed 3 companies websites including my previous University. I’d like to improve the management of the website and include more information about events and goings on. I’d also like more information specifically related to persuading new students come to Cuth’s.

Questions

CG: What’s your favourite and least favourite thing about the current website.

KS: My least favourite thing is the home page, it doesn’t point people around effectively.

JR: How clued in are you on GDPR?

KS: I have no idea what that is, but I’m very willing to learn about it.

: Pick one website that you would like the Cuth’s website to be like.

KS: I like the Castle website.

*KS is elected*

Environment Rep

Candidates

HO

AM

Request New Candidates

Husts

HO:

I’m HO, I’m a postgrad studying Environmental and Natural Resource Economics and the thought of Anthropogenic Climate Change keeps me up at night.

Since returning to Durham in October I’ve been attending the Greenspace Student Engagement Meetings on behalf of the college in order to feedback to committee and after stepped down to towards the end of last term, my fellow committee members encouraged me to take over on an interim basis until this election.

In the absence of an elected rep we’ve held a couple of productive meetings so far this term, we’ve got a notice board up which you might have seen on the way in and have some exciting plans for the weeks and months ahead.

My vision for the committee is one that first and foremost looks inward and envisages a future where Cuth’s is truly the greenest college in Durham but just as importantly looks outward and campaigns for positive change throughout the wider Durham Community.

If you elect me as rep, I will continue to represent you at these key forums and ensure that this committee is an open and inclusive platform for anyone who has an idea for something they wish to change feels empowered to do so.

AM:

I care a lot about the environment. At my school I was head of our environmental and biological society. I was in charge of biodiversity. It was nice to work as part of a team on something so important. It meant a lot to us all. I could be good at this for the JCR.

Questions

*No questions as HO is not present*

*HO is elected*

SP: What did the buffalo say to his son while dropping his son off at school? Bye-son.

: There once was a boy called ; He went out last night and was Ladam. He then drank too much and was Badam; We told him in the morning and he was Sadam. In fact he was so angry he was madam; But he’s come to the JCR meeting, now he’s Gladam.

Mature Students’ Rep

No Candidates

Transgender and Non-Binary Rep

No Candidates

Assistant Working Class Students’ Rep

Candidates

EG

EO

Request New Candidates

Husts

EG:

When I thought about this role, I thought about the problems working class people might have at uni. There were two issues: preconceptions they might have and the difficulty of supporting themselves financially. I went to a state primary school and a good state secondary school, so I’ve seen both ends of the spectrum. I’ve volunteered in access here which has been great for helping settle people’s nerves about coming to uni. I’ve also volunteered at holiday camps and I work for MyTutor so I know how speak to people constructively.

EO:

I’m from Manchester. I’ve had to access financial support from the University before, so I know the process and the stress. I also know about being plunged into a new space and having to deal with new people and money. I’d like to bring accessibility to the platforms that already exist but people might not know how to access. I’d bring a different perspective to JS as a woman, so that would make us a good team.

Questions

: What policy would you implement to help working class students?

EG: I think we need to signpost ways that students can gain financial support. When students are moving out, it can be very difficult not having a student loan over summer. The university is able to help and I’d like to signpost that.

EO: I’d like to take a more emotional response and talk them through to help them feel comfortable about their decisions.

JS: One of the big things I’ve tried to address is tackling imposter syndrome. If you had complete reign over one campaign, what would it be and why?

EO: I would work on pre-conceptions and false ideas, and break those down. Instagram stories with facts to break it down. That way people can see it without going anywhere.

EG: I think as well, one of the things that working class students struggle with is accessing basic necessities. I think it would be nice to have something along the lines of sanitary product drive, and maybe even distribute them to the wider community. We could link up with feminist society. I’d also make some posters and scatter them about.

*EG is elected*

Music Events and Publicities Officer

Candidates

RS

IS

MS

Request New Candidates

Husts

RS:

I’m RS and I’m currently in my first year studying music. I’d like to be the music events and publicity officer as I’m passionate about music and keen to get more involved with music in college. I think I would be good at this role as I am very organised and I have experience in this area. I have been the publicity manager for a number of concerts in Durham and I also have experience working with the marketing and external relations teams of professional orchestras. I am interested in a career in music publicity or marketing in the future.

IS:

I’d like to be this role because I’ve had a lot of experience working and playing with other musicians in orchestras, big bands and concert bands and my own solo projects. I know a lot of people that I could help. Cuth’s is very diverse and I want to push the fact that there’s a lot of original music out there. I also have a lot of experience setting up mics, PAs and sound systems.

MS:

I’m in a feminist punk band. I’m also famous for Durham Uni labour club tik tok. I would create an Instagram account for the music room key to track its adventures. I’d also look for students who are afraid to perform in public and try to create a network of musicians. I’d like to empower students to produce more music.

Questions

*No question because RS is not present*

*Recount because the vote is close*

*MS is elected.*

Method I

DUCK Rep

No Candidates

Welfare Campaigns Manager

Candidates

Request New Candidates

Husts

:

Running for this means a great deal to me, and I’m doing it because I know welfare is an integral part of our college and our campaigns are meaningful. I feel I can make a difference by ensuring our campaigns run smoothly and have a lasting impact. I’ve been on welfare campaigns since I started here and I’ve seen how important the campaigns are and it’s opened me to facts and experiences I wouldn’t other wise have known. I want to create a wider range of online content including videos and images. I think it’s important to make time for self care, and body positivity, that welfare should engage with that. I’ve helped organise destress yoga, pub quizzes and karaoke. I grew up in UAE where many of the topics we discuss here were taboo. I’m extremely passionate so will really dedicate my time to this. I’m bubbly and approachable which will help me to engage with people. I also care deeply about the welfare of others, and I think I can make a big difference here. Being a student isn’t easy, and these campaigns help people with issues they face. I would be honoured to fulfil this role.

Questions

AH: A lot of welfare campaigning is social media based, so how would you make sure they reach people in college who aren’t already engaged?

: Promoting people to follow the online sources through posters and announcements at events. Also putting up more posters physically during our campaigns.

EO: If you could put out a campaign of your choosing what would it be?

: It would be on body positivity because insecurity is something a lot of people struggle with that isn’t often talked about. It could be fun to do a lip sync video to a body positivity song.

: It can be difficult to engage people as it is, but it will be harder during exams. How will you keep the engagement up?

: Less people are willing to come to events, so maybe having notes in the library might help. Also more, shorter destress events at times when people might not be working. Maybe a colouring in event. Also promoting that people need to take study breaks.

JS: You’re applying at a time that’s difficult for campaign managers because team members will be less committed. How would you ensure everyone pulls their weight?

: I think having a group chat would be useful to help us figure out a time that works for everyone. If people don’t come then it’s easy to lose touch and stop doing anything. Maybe having meetings in the evening when more people are free.

Vice President

Candidates

CG

MP

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Husts

CG:

Hi I’m CG and I’m currently the communications officer, but you’ve also elected me as an NUS delegate and Ripped Off President.

But let’s start with why I want to be Vice-President; I came to cuth’s really insecure and a lil bit shy, but I think it’s the opportunities the JCR gave me that brought me out of my shell, which is why I’m so passionate about engagement, which leads me onto my first pledge;

The JCR survey showed that too many people felt like they weren’t included here; and I think we can change that with governance; as well as continuing the current fast minuting system, I will write summaries of meeting agendas and minutes, so people can engage with less effort.

The freshers handbook is another responsibility of the VP that can help people feel more included; I loved writing my handbook this year and would love to do another one; I pledge to finish the freshers handbook before results, but also compliment it with youtube freshers videos to boost engagement and ease anxiety, especially for people who never came to visit cuths before freshers week. I think we can boost engagement by reducing the amount we talk about people, and increasing talk on opportunities; so rather than ‘here is the welfare officer’, we’d have ‘this is welfare, and this is the person in charge’, this would also make JCR people seem less clique-y and boost engagement. We also need to talk about budgeting specific to Durham, as its so expensive here, it would be useful for freshers to be able to know what costs to expect and plan.

Lets talk about stash; I love stash, but stash can get better, I know this because look at the art on the walls! Let’s celebrate arty talent here with a stash design competition where we can all vote and have original stash! We also need to change our stash to have more non-wearables, and stash needs to be reviewed to ensure it’s ethical and sustainable, which I plan on working with environment comm to do!

My last big idea is ‘the annual cuth’s review’ kinda like a yearbook which we’ll release at the end of the year and you can keep to remember the year forever, because it looks like it’s gonna be a good one!

So, I work hard, and have demonstrated in my current role that I can innovate, and come up with creative ideas such as take time to sign, or cuth’s housing network, and that I listen, and get things done fast, most weeks the newsletter is finished on Tuesday, and I wrote my handbook within a week of handover. I’m driven, enthusiastic and committed. Most of all I want to make each and every member included, and can promise if you chose me as VP I will stop at nothing to do this.

MP:

Hi, I’m MP, I’m a 3rd year Languages, student currently on my year abroad, and I’d love to be your next Vice President.

My biggest focus would be to overhaul the handbook. This year’s is great, but while I already knew most of the info, it took me over 40 minutes to read.

As VP I’d trim down the Exec’s extensive autobiographies, and introduce them only when they are relevant

I’d cut out repeated information, and reduce the time spent on committees that only a handful of people sit on.

I’d talk about events more and earlier. Right now Michaelmas Ball, Summer Ball, Feast, and Cuth’s day have less than a page between them. and fashion show, which has always had a tenuous relationship with the JCR, isn’t even mentioned. Why not give them all a full page with multiple photos?

Sports & Socs should also be expanded, not just a list of emails. For me sports & socs are the biggest selling point of the JCR, and we should show them off properly.

I’d also try to better advertise first term Welfare hours and the all-important freshers Facebook group.

All this would hopefully lead to a more well-rounded handbook, that can be read in 30 minutes or less

So, handbook aside, why me?

I’m an absolute stash gremlin, so I’d love to run it, I’d try to work between our stash provider and society captains to see if they want run their stash through the JCR, saving them time, I’d try to work with Art Soc to have a competition to design the Cuth’s day 2021 t-shirt, and finally, while it’s not solely my call I’d advocate for free frep jumpers, because you shouldn’t be charged £15 for 2 weeks work.

I’m keen to minute meetings, and I’ve sat on multiple committees before, but I’m not going to reinvent the wheel so won’t go in detail here, please read my manifesto, there’s more info there.

Finally, the VP needs to be experienced across Cuth’s to help the other exec members, and no JCR hust would be complete without boring you about what I’ve done at Cuth’s. Last year I was on the Exec as Sports & Socs Chair, I’ve been on welfare campaigns, I’ve helped various outreach things, I’ve set up for balls, I’ve taken part in loads of Sports & Socs, I’ve Frepped and Open Day Repped, I’ve been in Fashion Show, I’ve written ding Orders, I’ve co-founded a society, I organised the first Hild Bede Varsity day, restarted refreshers fair, and this year I’ve been on the new Year Abroad Committee, which I helped write the motion to found.

End of the Day I’d massively appreciate a vote, and I won’t let cuth’s down if you give me this opportunity,

Thanks so much.

Questions

*No questions as one candidate is not present*

Finance & Compliance Officer

Candidates

MW

Request New Candidates

Husts

MW:

SW:

The first sign of MW’s organisation and aptitude with finances was as CRC Treasurer. Entered us for races. One of the first societies to claim race entry back through the JCR. Made these events more affordable to all. Able to increase our budget when required. Stash order. Cheapest stash around. Good with suppliers.

As a close friend MW has always been natural organiser. Always quick to find a good house, personally organised, never likes to leave things to last minute.

Was once sitting in the bar to unironically hear MW say that she ‘loves saving money’.

Read her manifesto for more nut she aims to not just save but spend.

We are a rich JCR there is money to be spent on students, MW can do this.

We all loved her Michaelmas ball.

Refreshers events costed with a keen eye.

Keen to jump on new finance tech like the new card machine.

Now the JCR’s charitable status is no longer at risk the nature of the FCO position has changed. It can now be further utilised beyond just its financial capacity in order to ease stress on all members of Cuths JCR.

She’s supervised me at the bar and always been in control. FCO is about being a leader in freshers for example as well as money as an exec member.

Being on JCR exec has allowed her to gain an understanding of how other parts of the JCR works. The FCO should be able to help all these positions with their work so this knowledge will help her to do this effectively.

She has worked with outreach and welfare as well as their campaigns and understand the rota in place for posting on Facebook.

She has an unnderstanding of how JCR accounting and finance works day to day. Being on the JCR exec and managing big budgets has given an understanding of this.

MW:

Hi everyone, I’m MW a third year classicist and this year’s social chair. I’m running to be your FCO for next year.

I want to make Cuths as inclusive as possible and I believe by being FCO I can make this happen.

Now the JCR’s charitable status is no longer at risk the nature of the FCO position has changed. It can now be further utilised beyond just its financial capacity in order to ease stress on all members of Cuths JCR.

So why vote for me?

I have experience in the following:

Budget management (both big and small): my role as social chair means I have managed some of the biggest budgets within the JCR of over £60000. I have also managed other smaller budgets within these and been able to delegate these to other members of social comm, much like the FCO delegates within finance comm. So far, I have made it all work!

Organisation: my organisation and time management skills are clear from my ability to balance an especially busy exec role with the third year of my degree, alongside being part of many Cuths sports and societies. This will be essential in the FCO role which involves balancing many different elements of the job.

People management: being a bar supervisor allowed me to practise this skill which will be essential in taking on the role of FCO and running finance comm. I also currently run social comm so already have the skills to manage a JCR committee.

Knowledge and love of the JCR: my commitment and involvement to Cuths throughout all my years here has let me both gain a huge love for the JCR and a great deal of knowledge about it. I’ve been involved on all levels within Cuths, from being a nervous fresher who turned up to a couple of sports and societies to make friends to now holding a JCR exec position. This is very important for being the FCO as it will allow me to contribute to all areas of the Cuths community as much as possible.

Working with other colleges and wider uni: planning for Summer Ball has put me in contact with a wide range of other JCRs (of varying natures) and this has given me an understanding of how they and the uni as a whole, work. I’ve already had to argue on Cuths behalf in intercollegiate meetings and this has brought to light Cuths’ unique nature as a charitable incorporated organisation who unlike other colleges pays VAT. (wow who knew?)

Problem solving: events management involves a lot of thinking on your feet and reacting quickly and well when situations arise. I also know that sometimes things just go wrong and how to sensibly react to this and limit the damage done. This again will be invaluable whilst being FCO.

Being on JCR exec has allowed me to gain an intricate understanding of how other parts of the JCR works. The FCO should be able to help all these positions with their work so this knowledge will help me do this effectively. I have already worked alongside outreach and welfare, specifically, so I am familiar with what their roles involve and how best to support them.

Sports captain experience: being Running president and last year’s Mixed Lacrosse captain and Running’s treasurer has given me experience in managing smaller budgets and charging subs. I made the match fees form because I was frustrated with the reclaim system at the time. I worked with the treasurer at the time to resolve issues surrounding this.

Understanding of how JCR accounting and finance works day to day: being on the JCR exec and managing big budgets has given me an understanding of this. So I’m used to the bread and butter of the job already.

And I’m a Fast learner: I am sure that I will be able to learn anything I don’t know yet whilst on the job. I’ve had to learn a lot very quickly this year in my current exec role and I’m confident I’ll be able to do the same next year.

What will I do?

My overall aim in being FCO is to support all members of Cuths JCR as much as possible. The great thing about having another live in sabbatical officer is that I can be another friendly face around college who will be able to help anyone from JCR exec members, to sports club treasurers, to someone who just has financial concerns. So, here are the specific ways I’m planning to do this if elected.

Help with financial stress

So I want to improve the current reclaim system to make payments as transparent and stress free as possible. By updating the website so you can see when its gone through and have an idea of when itll get paid.

Build upon my previous experience working with welfare and the working class rep to discount event tickets, in order to continue making events and Cuths in general as inclusive as possible.

Run drop ins in order to help with people’s questions or stresses about finance and being a treasurer of a sport or society.

Run a survey to find out how the JCR can best help its students with money issues.

Assist the JCR as a whole

I would aim to ease the load on the president and work closely with them to ensure their job is manageable and enjoyable and also so we can achieve more.

And ease the load on other exec members by taking on some of their work when they are overburdened. This will hopefully benefit the JCR as a whole.

Improve the JCR membership list in order to improve clarity surrounding this.

And Improve communication with the university.

Review JCR spending

As a JCR we underspend the money we receive each year and I want to spend the current discrepancy between our yearly funding and our current spending.

Look into making events cheaper, with the current amount of funding we have it would be possible to reduce ticket prices for events.

Greatly increase the participation fund, which means more Cuths students would be able to participate in a range of sports and societies within the university without having to worry about the financial burden.

Work with the Facilities Manager to find out what we’re missing and buy it.

Spend some of the reserves

I would effectively manage and spend the reserves for things that will improve the JCR long term.

Buy things to make the new building at Brooks as useful to the JCR as possible. This will be the main new exciting thing coming to Cuths next year, so it’d be great to make it as user friendly as possible.

Maintain the great relationship the JCR has with the bar this year and keep improving Brooks, Bailey. (and beyond?? Thank EA for that line xox)

Cuths has given me so much throughout my time here and I think being FCO would allow me to give as much back as possible. Your vote would mean so much to me and I would work as hard as possible to make Cuths the best place it can be.

Thank you.

Questions

EMM: As president, my FCO has been one of my biggest support systems, both emotionally and practically. How would you ensure you support the president that you’re FCO for?

MW: I would ask them what they needed, and what jobs were needed. I’d be happy to tka eon time consuming things involving events and budgets, which are often a major drain on the president’s time. I’d also just ask them what could make life better for them. We’ll eat together every day so it’s natural to chat about this.

RJ: The FCO is a new position. I was told this year that the central University didn’t know the role existed. How would you interact with University staff to ensure your work and role is well communicated?

MW: The president is often invited to meetings, so I’d ask them if I could come along to relevant things. I’d also tell people that we have this and a lot of colleges are developing it.

: If you had to make one major expensive purchase right now, with the reserves, what would it be and why?

MW: It would be something for the new building at Brooks. Sorry it’s quite abstract.

RSD: The FCO has been invaluable this year to the trustees. What do you think the relationship with the trustees will be in the future as we move forward from administrative difficulty?

MW: We’ll need to ensure that we remain charity commission compliant, but I’d also want to discuss what the trustees think would be helpful.

: What’s the best deal you’ve got in a shop?

MW: Today I got some fruit reduced to 25p.

President of the Society

Candidates

SWC

Request New Candidates

Husts

SWC:

AI:

I first met SWC on my first day at Cuth’s at the white t-shirt party. The whole point of the event was to meet as many people as possible but I only spoke to SWC and was really excited to have met someone so great. It’s exciting to reflect on that now as I tell you why she should be the next president. SWC has excellent judgement and is a very fair judge of human character. She’ll always pause and think about what other people thinking and how thinks feel from someone else’s perspective. When she’s sitting on committees and speaking to people this is very important. She also has a great deal of integrity. Last year she refused to tell us she was running for chair because it was against the campaign rules. This demonstrates her knowledge of the standing orders but also the respect she has for the JCR. She doesn’t consider it a CV builder or vanity project, but takes it seriously because it can do serious good. One of my favourite moments was when everyone chanted Wooto after a formal, and she finished up by saying “No, we are all Wooto”. Most people would have used that for self indulgent, but SWC put Cuth’s first.

: Why do you think SWC picked you to propose her?

AI: because we’re friends and I can do public speaking.

: What’s her biggest failure?

AI: She told me not to put in the story about her not sating she was running for chair. I think she was wrong. But it’s not really a failure.

SWC:

I’m SWC, (or Wooto), a final year historian. I’m the current JCR Chair. A lot of things have led to me standing up here and making this hust. My time here has been full of opportunity. Over my time I have been involved in: Trustees, SCSBC, welfare, FemSoc, squash, women’s football, ripped off. Have frepped and open day repped twice respectively, once as a team leader. These experiences have taught me a great deal about both myself and the JCR. I know how important it is whether for providing affordable sports/societies, financial support, or simply the community. Different for everyone. But there are things we can do to make it better for everyone. Cuth’s has come on a lot. We have two sabbs now. Need to make sure we are making the most of it.

What do I want to do?

Space review. This is an exciting time for Cuth’s with a new building on the way and the potential for changes in our existing buildings. I’m aware space, particularly gym, meeting, and study space, is a huge issue in Cuth’s. I want to review the space we have to ensure we’re using it as effectively as possible. Also have a system with gyms to make sure people can go with someone- online system where you can tick when you’re planning on going and others can too so you can know you won’t be alone/it’ll be busy. THINK CREATIVELY.

Tackle food waste. Press college on livers-out bringing Tupperware for a small price. Start small – maybe one night a week as a trial-build up. Maybe we could get environment comm to help.

Actively make information more accessible. It’s online but can be confusing we can do breakdowns, infographics, etc. It will increase trust and understanding.

Increase financial mitigation and advertise participation fund better. The survey showed this was a priority. Improve communication about hidden costs between societies/the JCR.

Work with other independent common rooms. It’s a bit of a passion project for me… IndyComm already exists but as more JCRs join, the opportunities for collaboration grow. I want to explore ways we can help each other fill in gaps the University leaves such as training and joint investments, sharing knowledge, etc.

Hold the university to account/getting more out of it. The university relies on JCRs to fulfil fundamental aspects of the experience at Durham, not least frepping and open days, with very little compensation. I want to push the university not just to acknowledge the fundamentality of JCRs to the operation of Durham but also ensure this is central to future expansion and restructuring plans as well as their budgeting.

SU relations. To me the relationship between the SU and JCRs can be very wasteful. A lot of people feel only one or the other is relevant to their life despite the fact they often have very similar objectives. The SU and JCRs rightly have different spheres of influence, but sometimes we could achieve a lot more by communicating more frequently and working towards common aims. I will seek to enter into dialogue with the SU and other Common Rooms using common interests to make advances together, rather than weakening our collective power by each focusing on the same thing in different ways.

Why vote for me?

I’m passionate. If you can’t whip out “I love Cuth’s” in your presidential hust when can you? In fact it’s really an entry-level requirement…I really do love Cuth’s evidenced by the time I have put into its exec, board of trustees and sports and societies. It has become a home away from home and I want to offer the same feeling to as many people who come here as possible.

I’m pragmatic and self-reflective. Whenever I have seen something in Cuth’s that needs changing I have sought to put myself in a position to do something about it, whether in a society or on the management side. I was on the trustee board responsible for Cuth’s regaining compliance with the Charity Commission; I wrote a strategy combining the exec and trustees to enable greater cohesion; I set up and ran Cuth’s non-competitve rowing to help increase accessibility of college sport; and after a tough freshers week I worked with welfare to restructure the committee and introduce designated officer contact hours with college to ensure communication is maintained. I designed a forum with others to promote leaving DSO structure. I really think the future for JCRs is outside the system and the more become independent we are the better for us!

I’m responsible. When I was a trustee I handled sensitive documents and information as well as over £20,000 of Cuth’s money. I’ve led a team through a challenging two weeks frepping as well as a committee this year. Experience of being a trustee is so valuable: I have experience already of the side of Cuth’s a lot of people don’t have until they become president, e.g dealing with the charities commission and how the trustees work. I know this better than most as I wrote an operating framework for the trustee board and exec after a quite tumultuous year.

I’m level-headed. Throughout my time in Cuth’s I’ve had to deal with difficult situations, including mediating working relationships and welfare situations. Not only have I dealt with them effectively but I have also learnt from each experience.

I’m inclusive. I’ve tried to work closely with minority reps throughout the years including working with welfare to restructure the committee, had a meeting last term with minority reps to discuss how JCR Meetings could be made more inclusive, fought with others in the exec to make sure PGs who weren’t doing integrated masters but had returned to Cuth’s (without a break) didn’t have to pay another year of levy compared to those on integrated courses.

Broad statements

The presidency is about big and small things, ensuring Cuth’s is legally sound as well as helpjng individuals with any issues they might have. I’m aware that it’s much more than a 9 to 5 job in many respects. Nonetheless, I’ve spent huge amounts of time in the last two years dedicating myself to running and improving the JCR and I do believe I understand the responsibilities involved with running for president as much as I can at this point.

EXCITING times for Cuth’s!!! Having two sabbs opens up so many opportunities and I want to explore that as much as possible.

The JCR has given me so many opportunities to better myself and I do believe this is fundamentally what it exists for. I know university can be a challenging time. Durham isn’t the first university I went to. I spent half a year in London and really struggled with loneliness so I really believe the community Cuth’s offers can make the difference between someone finishing their degree and not.

I have learned in life the best way to make a difference is to start small in your own community. I can’t change things like inequality in education and opportunity growing up but I can try to make the playing field as level as possible once people get here. This community is for everyone and can offer different things to everyone. Whoever you are and wherever you come from Cuth’s should be here to make your experience here as fulfilling as possible by offering as much community and opportunity as possible.

Questions

TP: in three non-cliché words, can explain what Cuth’s means to you?

SWC: Community. Opportunities. Growth. It’s slightly different to giving people opportunities. Cuth’s gave me opportunities to become someone I’m proud of.

WN: Looks of things have happened this year that will have a negative impact on JCRs, that JCRs have been powerless to stop. What will you change in the way we approach these?

SWC: Ultimately, strength lies in collective power. That’s true of JCRs so it’s important to work together. JCR presidents only have so much power, but utilising relationships is powerful.

: Being president can very demoralising at points. The University are shit. Things you are passionate about are very easy for them to push out the way and neglect. How will you stop yourself being demoralised and maintain energy?

SWC: It’s important to be rooted in the smaller things that you make happen and that make a difference to people. I might not be able to achieve everything I want to, but I can still make a difference to people in Cuth’s.

RJ: Now that we’re in a more stable financial position, what do you see as the long term direction for Cuth’s?

SWC: I had a 5 point strategy. We’re already comfortably complaint, now is the time to look into utilisation of resources. Accessibility is very key, and we can always do more. That’s about being proactive and talking to people. We have a very high turnover in the JCR officers, so continuity is difficult. This strategy is probably less relevant even now than when it was written. Long term projects are down to each exec. Cuth’s in a wider context is the last point.

EO: When have you been most proud to be a member of Cuth’s?

SWC: Frepping as a team leader. It was a tough year but we really bonded. We’ve been able to see the difference in students we moved in.

: A lot of people say that Cuth’s is good at a lot of things but it’s a master of none. Trev’s lead for music, Collingwood for sport. What do you see our niche as, and how would further that?

SWC: A lot of our identity comes from our independence historically, and now. We’re also very diverse. Cuth’s has a real reputation in Durham for being one of the most open, diverse and friendliest colleges.

SW: Can you please name a quality the current president has that makes her good that you’ll try to replicate.

SWC: is very on top of things, particularly small things like replying to messages. I really appreciate that she communicates and is very present. I’d hope to be as present and on top of things.

AI: When I first arrived, the president was a really important figurehead of the community. What kid of impression would you like to give to new freshers?

SWC: Friendliness. I don’t want them to see me as someone scary that will shout at them. I’d like them to know I’m there for them. I enjoy spending time with people in Cuth’s. Freshers are friends too. It’s important to form strong relationships with freshers even as president.

WN: You said the JCR provides a lot for the University, such as open days and freshers’ week, but receives nothing back. Would you ever stop providing these?

SWC: I have considered this, but not without being absolutely sure it was the right thing to do which I’m not currently. I struggle to see a situation where I’d prefer to not to run open days than to get no compensation.

: The JCR exec being cliquey is a hard reputation to shake. How would you challenge that, and do more to engage people who aren’t already in the loop?

SWC: I understand where these ideas come from. I also think that what matters is that people have these ideas, not whether or not they’re true. I think communication and transparency is very important. Even just doing a survey shows that we’re keen to listen to people. That will help people feel like they’re being listened to. It’s not possible to have an exec that aren’t friends. Keeping it as open as possible, running drop ins around election time. We also tell people to get in touch with the position holder but that can be intimidating. I’m trying hard as chair to make things more open and accessible. Fundamentally, just listening to people. This needs more time to think about a good solution. But transparency is important.

SM: The job can be quite taxing, especially without set hours. How would you make sure that you do the job well without burning out?

SWC: It’s important to maintain what friends I had from before. Also planning some days when I’ll be out of Durham. That way you have something to look forward to. Rely on the FCO. Part of the reason they’re there is to help.

SP: Cuth’s is popular for engaging with student political movements such as ripped off. What role do you see the president as having in those movements?

SWC: It’s often brought up about whether the president is being political. Ripped off isn’t political because it affects everyone. Even the local community. It’s important to be clear to yourself about where the line is between party politics and activism. It’s also important to push the university when you can, and to work with the SU and other common rooms.

: I would describe the Brownie Bomber as a gourmet drink, but not everyone agrees. If you could redesign the college drink, what would it be?

SWC: I think it should be green. I don’t know what alcohol is green.

CG: Next year, it’s likely that some students may decide to rent strike. Would you support them and how?

SWC: I’m not entirely clear on the legality, so I’d need to do more reading. I have no issue with it, and it’s worked before. I’m a fan of action that works. Whether I could participate, and how much support I could offer are some things I’d need to research a lot more.

: What do you think the SU policy should be towards the rent differentiation policy?

SWC: I broadly support the idea of having differently priced accommodation and greater choice. I struggle with the fact there are 6 different types. We might manage that, but in some colleges the rooms are very standardised. Broadly, I’m in favour. The key thing about these kinds of policies is retaining the college’s identity while implementing these measures.

AA: What will you do to show students they are receiving value for the £160 they give up to the JCR? How will you give JCR members exclusive benefits non-members will not have access to?

SWC: It’s about transparency. A lot of people aren’t clear on the benefits. Being clear about the 50:50 sports and socs system is of massive value. But a lot of people don’t realise. Some infographics would also be useful.

CA: Do you think that it’s feasible for the society to extend its benefits to students who have always lived out throughout their degree (-i.e., locals in the north- east who always live at home)? From my experience with these students, they don’t feel part of Cuth’s or feel that they’ve experienced any benefits of college life. If you think it’s feasible, what would you put in place in order for these students to be welcomed in Cuth’s/meaningfully experience some of the positive of Cuthls?

SWC: The benefits that we offer are open to these students, but they may not feel engaged. Maybe even having a specific hour long drop in for local students to help them think about being more involved. Maybe offer a skype call or allow them to send in questions. Targeting them and saying we understand that it can be difficult for them to feel engaged. Communications is key.

: SP loves the elections, that’s clear to see. SP loves elections, especially democracy.

Song

Everyone was tired and already moving furninture, so the singing was rather lackluster. did attempt to sing into the microphone but it achieved little.

Meeting Adjourned

Cuth’s JCR

Registered Charity 1168134

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