Ahead of our annual Student Leadership Elections, we’ve put together this quick guide that breaks down the Student Leadership Elections, and what democracy is.
At Roehampton Students' Union, we recognise that the idea of democracy and democratic representation can sound quite intimidating and daunting for students. Ahead of our annual Student Leadership Elections, we’ve put together this quick guide that breaks down Student Leadership Elections, what democracy is, and some common myths and stigmas around democratic representation.
Led by students, for students.
Roehampton Students’ Union (RSU) is a charity, independent from the University, that is here to support you throughout your student journey. We’re a democratic organisation led by students, for students. The work we do is led by elected student representatives and supported by a permanent staff team.
All students at the University of Roehampton are automatically members of the Union, which means you don’t need to sign up and can access our services whenever you like!
What are Student Leadership Elections?
In our Student Leadership Elections, students can run by nominating themselves for elected student leader positions within the Students' Union. Students will also be able to vote for these candidates when voting opens. This includes our student group committee members and our paid full-time Sabbatical Officer roles. Elections are your opportunity to have your voice heard and choose who you want to lead the Students’ Union and represent your interests to the University and wider community.
As the Students’ Union is student-led, you inform the campaigns and work we do as an organisation to ensure we’re advocating and representing you on the issues that matter to you most. During Elections, you can also vote which priorities the officers should focus on in the 2026/27 academic year.
This is your time to tell the Students’ Union what is important to you and what our primary focus should be.
What is a Democratic Organisation?
As we are led by elected officials, the Students’ Union is a democratic organisation. We understand the terms “democratic” and “democracy” can sound daunting, so let’s break it down:
- A democratic organisation is one where power and decision-making are shared amongst its members rather than being concentrated between a few leaders.
- This means that all voices contribute to rules, strategies, leadership, and key decisions.
Why is this important?
As a student, you pay a lot of money to attend University so it’s important you’re happy with your university experience. By being a member of the Students’ Union, you can have your say in key decision making at the University.
You can do this in different ways, such as:
The SU then takes your feedback to the University and advocates on behalf of students, and lobbies for positive change. This takes place at all levels of the University with the SU having direct access to senior university staff like the Vice Chancellor and a position on the University’s top decision-making body, University Council. We also work closely with colleagues across the UK in other students’ unions and the National Union of Students to campaign for students on national issues.
Interested in learning more about our Student Leadership Elections? Head to our dedicated website here.