We are proposing disaffiliation from NUS for several reasons. NUS are currently conducting an independent investigation into allegations of antisemitism. As a response, earlier this year it was announced that the Department for Education would be temporarily disengaging with NUS over the antisemitism allegations. This meant that students were missing this vital access to lobby and influence at a time of critical change in higher education and during the cost-of-living crisis that is severely affecting many students. 

Other reasons for leaving include the fact that an NUS officer has not visited Christ Church in over 5 years, despite us reaching out numerous times. In 2019 NUS proposed a series of cuts and got rid of their Trans and International Officers. And other Unions have thrived after leaving, and other Unions have also proposed to leave and are currently having referendums.

The Sabbatical Officer Leadership Team have serious concerns regarding the lived values, reputation, and effectiveness of NUS (UK). CCSU is a values-led organisation that champions equality and diversity and the current alleged antisemitism in NUS (UK) is extremely concerning. CCSU, as everyone must at this time, needs to ensure it is utilising limited resources in the best interests of students and our belief is that the money currently allocated to the affiliation of NUS (UK), £14,000, could be more effectively utilised to deliver direct benefit to Christ Church students.