Survey reveals a measured view of UEA Students’ Union (SU) while identifying some clear areas for improvement. 

The all-student survey – conducted between the 28^th of October and 14th of November – saw many respondents describe the representative body as ‘Friendly’ and ‘Positive’, but many others said it was ‘Confusing’ and ‘Counterproductive’.   

At a time of significant change in the lived experiences of students at UEA, the survey details how many are keen to see a purpose-driven Union continue as part of the fabric of the Home of the Wonderful while calling for greater transparency in its decision-making processes and overall communication with the student body.  

Key Findings:  

Some confusion about Roles and Responsibilities: A large number of respondents reported feeling they needed clarification about the roles of the SU’s full-time student officers. 67% of respondents admitted to only ‘partly’ or ‘not really’ knowing what the 5 full-time SU officer roles entail, highlighting a potential communication gap between the SU and the student population. A further 30% said they had a ‘decent idea’, while the remaining 3% were unaware of the roles’ existence.   

An underlying lack of Representation: A recurring theme throughout the survey was the feeling that the SU does not consistently represent the needs and views of many students. Less than 10% of respondents chose ‘Representative’ as one of the top three words to describe the SU, and just 18% felt that the SU represents them ‘Very well’ or ‘Extremely Well’ on a scale of 0 to 5. 33% said they felt the body represented them ‘Somewhat Well’, 20% felt ‘Neutral’, and 26% selected ‘Not very well’ or ‘Not at all well’.   

Students want a purpose-driven Union: 97% of respondents identified distinct ideas of what a Students’ Union should be. 81% agreed an SU should exist “To best represent the views and concerns of students”. 75% agreed it should “work towards providing solutions to common problems faced by students while at university”; 58% agreed it should “provide students with a variety of extracurricular activities, opportunities and events” and 55% that it should “act as a political body to campaign for the rights and values of the student body.” 4% said they weren’t sure what the purpose of an SU was, and one person stated that “Students’ Union’s should not exist”.  

A distinct Disconnect with Mature and Postgraduate Students: While the survey did not specifically focus on mature and postgraduate students, their high level of negative responses indicated a greater sense of disconnect from and dissatisfaction with the SU. Several added comments highlighting a lack of consideration for the needs and concerns of these student groups on campus, with many PG and mature respondents criticising the management of the changing of the former Scholars’ Bar into a new LGBTQ+ space over the summer.   

The survey’s open-ended questions provided valuable insights into the specific concerns of students. Many expressed a desire for greater transparency in the SU’s decision-making processes and called for increased consultation with students on important issues such as changes in the use of SU space and the affordability of university life. There were also calls for the SU to be more proactive in addressing the diverse needs of the student population, including those of mature, postgraduate, and international students.   

A Positive Platform for Change  

Despite a large proportion of neutral or negative findings, the survey also presents an opportunity for positive change. By actively listening to student feedback and addressing the concerns raised, the SU can take meaningful steps towards rebuilding trust and improving its relationship with the student body. Our respondents suggest this should include:  

• Improving Communication: The survey suggests the SU needs to communicate its roles, responsibilities, and activities more clearly to the student population. Several students have told Concrete this could be achieved through various channels, including social media, student newsletters, and a broader range of events.  

• Increasing Representation: Many student voices are calling on the SU to actively seek out more ways to represent the diverse voices and needs of all students, including those from minority groups. This can be achieved by establishing focus groups, conducting regular surveys, and ensuring that all students have equal access to opportunities for participation in SU activities.  

• Enhancing Transparency: The SU needs to be more transparent in its decision-making processes, the survey suggests. Recommendations for addressing this include publishing and more actively sharing minutes of meetings, providing regular updates on SU activities via digital channels and physical forums, and actively seeking greater student input on important issues.  

• Addressing Student Concerns: Lastly, the survey suggests the SU should be more proactive in addressing student concerns and working towards solutions that benefit the entire student body, not just a “select few” or “distinct groups” with “the loudest voices”. Suggestions for improvements include establishing and promoting clearer channels for students to voice their concerns, and greater active engagement with all student groups and societies.  

Concrete’s survey makes clear that students appreciate and welcome many elements of a ‘Friendly’ and ‘Positive’ Students’ Union that is purpose-driven and actively aids and supports students as they navigate their university experience.  

In response to the survey, the 5 full-time Student Officers provided the following joint statement: 

“As your student representatives, we recognise that the Students’ Union is not perfect. If it were, we wouldn’t have the opportunity to make meaningful change. We believe that every organisation or system has room for improvement, and we embrace this reality as part of our responsibility to you.   

We welcomed the investigation conducted by the student newspaper, as it provides a valuable opportunity for reflection and accountability. The areas for improvement highlighted in the report will guide the work we do moving forward. Constructive criticism helps us grow and ensures we remain responsive to the needs and concerns of the student body.   

At the same time, we’re grateful for the positive feedback shared. It’s encouraging to hear what we’re doing well and motivates us to build on those strengths as we continue to develop and improve.   

We genuinely appreciate the transparency and honesty of everyone who contributed to this process. Through such open dialogue, we can continue to make positive changes and create a Students’ Union that better serves all students.” 

See the full results here.

To see the results of the Society and Club Committee members survey click here.

Image credit: UEA(SU)