Better with Benson
When I came to university I was expecting a wonderland of cheap drinks in the Guild. Sadly Joes Bar fronts ‘London prices’, this is not acceptable as many of us end up spending far more then we should be paying on a Fab night. The guild has also disappointed me on several other issues as well. Things I would like to rectify when I am elected.
I am standing for the following:
- £1 Pints & cheaper drinks at the Guild
- Safer Selly Oak
- More events on campus
- Freedom of speech, and encouraged debate.
- Act on student grievances raised
Firstly Joes bar charges ‘London Prices’, something I would end. For many Universities the Student Union is a source of cheap drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Joes unfortunately is pricier then the pubs in Selly Oak. This will change when I am elected. Cheaper drinks, Pound Pints and the introduction of deals at Joes is something I feel passionately about, no doubt you do too.
Secondly the Guild has done a rather abysmal job of safeguarding student interests in Selly Oak. Crime is on the rise. I would press for an increase in Police patrols coupled with members of the University security teams to patrol what is essentially an all student area. The University has a responsibility towards the security of its students.
Thirdly when elected I will hold more events at the Guild so there is more to do during the week then just go to the pub. Lots of events based on successful ones held at other universities such as the infamous musical scene at UAE, Oxford Unions Guest Speakers, Dinners held at countless Universities, Exeter and Bristol’s Safer Sex Ball and a Founders day to name a few. All at affordable prices, because I know we’re all in enough debt as it is.
Finally the platform for debate has disappeared, with our university ranked one of the worst for freedom of speech in the country! I will tackle this issue and improve the image of Birmingham as a tolerant and friendly University, which engages with its students.
Of course there is a myriad of other smaller issues that I would also address, such as the need for free hot water in the food outlets, the extortionate price of said outlets food as well as the lack of drinking fountains on campus. When elected I will take any issue raised by students and act on it immediately, something we have yet to see happen.
A vote for me is more than just a vote for cheap drinks, it’s a vote for a better Uni experience!