What is Union Council? 

The Union Council is made up of student volunteers known as Community Organisers and the Full Time Student Leaders. 

Here at Christ Church SU, our highest democratic decision-making body is called Union Council.

Students’ Unions are amongst the most democratic membership organisations in the UK. Every one of them has its own structure for debating ideas and campaigns and making decisions. They’re run by students – and everyone can have their say.

The Council meets several times a year and discusses issues affecting students: your life, your university life or your union. It can pass policy, which requires the Union to work on specific things or can be a forum for students to raise issues for the Union to take forward in other ways.

What is a Community Organiser? 

At CCSU change starts with out students. Community Organising is our new way of making sure we hear your ideas, passion and voice to shape our campus. 

Previously to be a volunteer student representative at CCSU you had to be elected for a specific role. Based on feedback we have removed the election process so anyone can be apart of Union Council as a Community Organiser. Furthermore we have removed the Part Time named positions meaning for example one month you can focus on sustainability and the next you may feel passionate about LGBTQIA+ rights. 

The Community Organiser model is all about making things simpler, more inclusive and action focused, by embodying a Community Organiser approach moving away from bureaucracy towards community action. Community Organising focuses on addressing social injustices and using collective power to bring about positive change without the need to be elected in. Alongside this the Community Organiser Student Representatives will champion campaigns to ensure that the needs of students and the community are reflected through the activities of the Union. 

Benefits to running

• Voice Your Ideas: Represent your fellow students and bring their concerns to the forefront
• Shape the Future: Improve student life, and enhance campus experiences
• Gain Skills: Develop valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication & campaign work
• Earn Volunteering Hours