Seasons Greetings everyone!

I felt compelled to write a blog this week about the recent release of the Mori research. As a member of last years ‘Year of Change’ group who endorsed and supported the move for independent research, I have been particularly looking forward to the release of the report and the strategy which will follow as a result.

After reading the report I’m extremely encouraged with the comments made by all of our participating stakeholders and importantly our members. I don’t really want to harp on about my thoughts on the individual aspects of the report but rather, what we need to do next.

While some continue to criticise the decision to commission this independent review for reasons based on both concept and the cost, they have been clearly shown that the membership, the people who lead the policy and direction of this Union are actually saying something different. I hope that now those who have reservations about this course of action are able to sit up and take note and support the next phase of the reform process. I recognise that in the current financial situation we are in spending around £50,000 must seem like a huge financial commitment, but now that the report is out its vital that we now focus on the way that NUS develops in light of its findings. I will be hot on the heals of the management team to make sure that this research does not get swept under the carpet. The findings must be fed into our strategic plan and give the national union some real direction for the future while giving us a wake up call about our democratic processes, member’s perception and of course our financial situation.

As I said the most important thing to concentrate on now is where and how this project moves forward but I would just like to make a comment about one on the aspects of the research- democracy. I found this the most interesting and surprising section of the report. It talks about a variety of issues from Media relations to Modern democratic trends. What’s very clear from the report is a need from both students and stakeholders about NUS’ approach to campaigning. On more than one occasion comments are made about the effectiveness of NUS’ recent campaigning. Do we continue to hold National Demo’s? Well my personal opinions on these issues are very clear. I believe that NUS must be more dynamic in its campaigning, I believe there are times and places for demos. They’ve proven effective in combating racism/fascism, mobilise against the war in Iraq and across the world and engage people of all ages and backgrounds in Making Poverty History. But it’s not always the most effective method of campaigning for change, I don’t have the answers, but it’s important that all options are thoroughly explored– which NUS has begun to do so with its expansion of its Public Affairs department. NUS officers now have more directed support for the public facing aspect of our work. After all, that’s what we’re here to do…campaign and make a difference. Changes and improvements to what NUS does can be a direct result of your influence.

So this project must move forward, and it must only be through consultation with you, which is why I believe the ‘Year of Change’ group must be continually consulted and continuing to champion the reform agenda so supported by most of the NEC. Please read the report and respond to it appropriately by getting in contact with any of your NEC or ‘Year of Change’ members.

Continue to let us know what you think, continue to stay involved and continue to talk to your execs about what we are doing.

A final reminder to those who are yet to fill out the ‘Sabbatical Work/Life balance Survey’. You have until around the middle of January by which time I will begin to compile the information into some form of report and presentation for regional conferences. You can find the survey on the front of www.officeronline.co.uk

I wish you all a very happy mid-winter break and New Year. Look forward to working with you all again in the New Year,

Stephen xx

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