VOTE ASHLEIGH FOR WELFARE OFFICER!

Hi, I’m Ashleigh! I’m a mixed-race, disabled woman, currently completing my master’s in Race, Education and Decolonial Thought. I have been with Leeds Beckett for many years, finishing my first degree, BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science in 2017. Honestly, I didn’t have the best experience overall; working alongside my studies to support myself financially was rewarding but stressful. Additionally, I had undiagnosed ADD and anxiety which impacted all aspects of my life. Ultimately, I finished disheartened by my lack of support and final grade. Before returning in 2020 to complete my PGCE in Secondary 11-16 Mathematics, I vowed I would increase my activism to improve the university experience for all students. And I did just that! I’m currently the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) ambassador and Student Academic Representation Assistant for School of Education. My familiarity with the university has enabled me to raise the voices of all students at School Academic Committees and Academic Board. My personal and professional experiences have empowered me to become a resilient, compassionate, and approachable leader. My emotional intelligence has positively impacted those around me, allowing me to emphasise with other people’s perspectives and communicate their needs effectively.

IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH AT LEEDS BECKETT

Creating an inclusive and exciting community

I will bring the university community together, creating inclusive and exciting events for both students and staff, involving food, music and culture. To challenge discrimination and bridge cultural barriers, I’m currently working on a cultural competency project that will be delivered to all course reps. I want to implement this across the whole university so all students can engage in creating an inclusive experience for all when starting their journey at LBU. We have an extensive global community that needs to be celebrated more! Particularly after the challenging experiences of the pandemic.

Improving mental health support processes

I want to improve the mental health support processes; students are currently experiencing extensive waiting times to receive mental health and wellbeing support. With NHS waiting times also increased, many students are finding it difficult to find and access the support they need, leading to an increase in requests for extensions and mitigation. This process requires justification and evidence from students. Why should students have to validate their own feelings and situations? When support is received, students receive limited sessions. I want to advocate for better support processes to help students throughout their entire university journey.

Improving financial wellbeing

I will also challenge the university to provide further financial aid to help students. The cost of living in the UK has severely increased, but maintenance loans will not cover this. Although employability is important to students, they should not have to jeopardise their university experience to remain financially secure. This is the largest contributor to mental health hence the need for better mental health support services including financial aid.