For over two years now, becoming University’s welfare officer has been my dream. My time at the University has been phenomenal and I would love the opportunity to make my own impact on such an important aspect of the guild. Helping improve the welfare system is personal to me, as almost a year ago, after struggling with finding someone I could trust and talk to, I was diagnosed with depression. For me it took a lot of bravery, and I know from this experience how challenging University life alongside any welfare related issue can be. I am a very approachable individual and a great listener, which can make opening up to me a little easier. Whatever problem you are facing, however big or small, matters to me. I don’t want any student at university to feel as though they should suffer in silence and am dedicated to working tirelessly to ensure the welfare system will support everyone.
Some of you may recognise me from my role as a student mentor. This has helped me realise my passion for helping other people and my love of supporting students throughout challenging circumstances.
I have also put a lot of time into promoting events run by the University of Birmingham’s Nightline. I have been inspired by the amazing work these volunteers and will strive to work alongside them as a welfare officer. This has also expanded my awareness of other public services, such as Mind for mental illness and Rape Crisis UK for victims of sexual assault. This knowledge will enable me to offer more for students at university than they would otherwise have been given.
One of my primary aims as welfare officer would be to develop a similar service to the Student Mentors (who do amazing work throughout halls) for students out of official accommodation. Talking to a specialist can be intimidating; sometimes just having a chat with a student about a housing problem, homesickness or health brings fantastic benefits. I will do this by working alongside the current mentor team, and the community wardens in my determination to achieve this.
I will seek to host talks and discussions for those close to someone experiencing welfare difficulties, particularly victims of abuse or mental health sufferers. I feel there is little help and advice available to students before University on such matters, and helping a close one without additional support can be tough.
Thirdly, I will replicate events hosted by the Hub, such as bereavement workshops, including students who have experienced similar issues to lead the discussion. This will avoid the daunting aspect of speaking in front of a professional while presenting the opportunity to open up in an empathetic environment.
No matter what you are going through, I will always care and I will ensure that I am available to talk and to offer further help and guidance. If you vote for me, I will give Birmingham University the welfare system it deserves and needs.