My name is Natalie Davidson and I’m running for Disabled Students Officer. I am a disabled student myself so I think that not only helps me empathize with other disabled student but also experience the campus in a way that most students can’t, and while the university is doing its best to cater to those with disabilities and additional needs, I feel that there are some areas that I can improve upon.

If elected the first policy I plan to implement would be to have all lectures and seminars recorded and uploaded to Moodle. This will support those students whose needs make reading the power points difficult and will support all students with their learning if they have missed a lesson. In combination with this I aim to make it so that all RSU information is also available in other formats such as Braille and large print and it’s my hope that the societies will do this too.

The next change I would make would be for disabled students to have the option of a blue stamp when attending events like Bop and Frigby. This would enable these students to be permitted to bring in items needed for their disability and priority serving for drinks and food. These stamps would also work in leu of medical alert bracelets as if someone with this stamp is acting strangely or has passed out, those around will be aware that this behavior may be a result of their medical condition and not simply because it is assumed they are drunk; this identification would be essential if emergency services are called to these events.

I also plan to raise awareness about the types of disability acknowledged and supported by the university and how to attain any support and assistance needed both on and off campus through information evenings and regular coffee groups to discuss myth busters and “how to”. In addition to this I plan to campaign for awareness of invisible disabilities and provide information about them around campus with parties and social events.

Next, I plan to make the campus a more accessible place and will target the library first. I aim to make it so that there are power access doors on each floor for the silent study rooms, the rooms available for bookings and the bathrooms. My target is to make it so that one of each of these facilities is adapted on every floor and are labeled so that students know where they are. I am aware that this will take the longest to put in place and therefore it will be one of the first things I start if elected.

In conclusion I feel I should be elected for this position because I’m enthusiastic about the improvements I can help to bring about; I’m not afraid to aim high but am still able to think realistically as I have short and long term goals that I believe will have positive impacts on the disabled student body.