What do Students' Unions do?

No two unions are alike, however, NUS and CLANUS generally accepts that most Students' Unions will be involved in the following:

Representation

The most important role of a Students' Union is to represent the interests and views of students. Whether it's at course, department and Board of Governors level the Students' Union is usually a recognised and respected spokesperson for students.

Welfare and Information

The advice and welfare services within your union cover all manner of things from student financial support through things like health awareness, accommodation and legal aid advice, to advice for overseas students or students with disabilities.

Commercial Services

Larger unions operate catering outlets and bars upon which colleges and students depend. They are run cost-effectively and provide products of very high standards. Many of the bargain prices are kept at such levels because the unions are able to buy through the NUS Services consortium, dependant on NUS membership.

Clubs and Societies

In both Higher and Further Education, unions fund clubs and societies which can operate on both an educational and recreational level. They are essential to expanding the educational experience of students while at college.

Entertainment

Ents is probably the service your membership know you the best for. Whether it's organising an End of Term Disco, to a Battle of the Bands.