Student Leaders Drive Change at Leeds University Union

How student officers have influenced campus life in recent years

Leeds University Union (LUU) has seen a series of student leaders take on roles that have brought about notable changes across the campus community. Each year, students at the University of Leeds have the opportunity to stand for election as Student Officers, taking on leadership positions that influence Union policies and initiatives for a full academic year.

Recent achievements by student officers

Over the past few years, student leaders have introduced a range of initiatives aimed at improving wellbeing, inclusivity, accessibility, and safety for the student body.

• Wellbeing and health provisions: In 2021-22, the Wellbeing Officer ensured that full-sized period and sexual health products were made freely available at the Union. This policy has continued in subsequent years, addressing period poverty and supporting student health.
• Equality and inclusion: The Equality and Liberation Officer in 2021-22 launched Liberate LUU, a programme designed to create a more inclusive and anti-oppressive environment within the Union, promoting equal opportunities and wellbeing for all students.
• Financial support for activities: In 2022-23, the Activities and Opportunities Officer introduced the ‘Allocated Plus Programme’ funding to assist financially disadvantaged students in participating in clubs and societies.
• Student safety measures: The Union Affairs and Communications Officer in 2023-24 introduced free on-campus drug testing kits, aiming to enhance student safety and preparedness.
• Healthcare access for minority groups: The International and Postgraduate Officer in 2024-25 worked to connect vulnerable and minority student groups with healthcare support providers, helping to improve access to necessary services.
• Sports and representation: The current Activities and Opportunities Officer has expanded access to mixed-gender sports and introduced a Womens+ Sports Coordinator role to ensure representation and inclusivity in campus sports.
• Cultural diversity initiatives: The Education Officer created The Diversity Blog, a platform for second and third generation immigrants to share personal stories, poetry, and articles reflecting their cultural experiences.
• Addressing sexual violence and trans rights: The current Union Affairs and Communications Officer launched SASHA Accreditation to combat sexual inappropriateness in clubs and societies and led the Union’s signing of a ‘Trans Open Letter’ urging the government to reconsider anti-trans legislation.

Ongoing commitment to student representation

These examples illustrate the range of issues student officers have addressed, from health and safety to equality and cultural representation. The Union continues to encourage students to participate in the LeadLUU elections to influence the future direction of the student community.

Students interested in standing for election or learning more about the roles available can find further information through the Leeds University Union website.