This year, the Yes to NUS campaign is advocating for remaining within the National Union of Students and defending the extremely important work they do for students across the UK to achieve national change for students.
The Yes to NUS campaign argues in support of the National Union of Students based on four reasons, National representation, Student Discounts, Student Support and National Campaign work.
Students at Newcastle University are currently represented by the NUS on a national and international scale! The National Union of Students represents the interests of over seven million students in the UK. The Yes to NUS campaign believes that we are stronger together, with 95% of all UK student unions being affiliated with the NUS.
The NUS represent our interests and affiliation with the NUS allows us to shape policy proposals at regional and national conferences. The NUS campaign to give students a fair deal for our future on issues such as minimum wage and student finance funding, alongside lobbying the government to give students access to safe and secure housing!
Throughout the cost-of-living crisis, the NUS have won over £500 million to support students and during the Covid-19 pandemic saved students £1 Billion through government lobbying. Student support hubs provided by NUS are extremely helpful for students needing advice or guidance, these hubs offer support in all aspects of student life, including the cost-of-living crisis, housing, workplace and climate change!
The NUS also offer discounts for students such as 15% off National Express! Through NUS-partnered discount cards such as the Totum+ and ISIC cards, students can access discounts on everyday shopping and food and drink items!
Disaffiliation with the NUS would be disastrous for students who rely on the student urgent action fund and these student hubs. Without representation at a national level, students at Newcastle will be unable to advocate for issues they believe in or gather support to help protect degree programmes and teaching staff that face cuts from Newcastle University.