Hi, my name is Jenita and I would love to be your VP Welfare this year. Having worked for UPSU for almost two years, I have learnt and seen first-hand how important UPSU is in shaping the student experience.
I am hugely passionate about mental health and wellbeing. Having been diagnosed with depression and anxiety at the start of 2017, I did not really know who to go to for advice or where to turn to. I would love to set up a peer support scheme for students where they could speak to people their own age about any issues they may have. Perhaps even an online service, accessible via the SU app, where students could seek help anonymously.
Working as a nightclub cashier, I see a lot of students who need help that they feel they might not be able to get. With the introduction of club hosts, this has improved greatly, but there is still more that I feel can be done. I propose club hosts being present at all UPSU club nights, even at partner clubs such as Pryzm and Walkabout, offering a helping hand to students in need.
Exams and deadlines are stressful regardless of the time of year, which I why I propose “Feel Good Fridays” – regular events throughout the year which bring students together and help with the stresses of university life. Inflatables and food on the SU roof as well as pamper sessions and gaming rooms for all students to get involved with.