How do I run for a position?

You can run by nominating yourself using the online survey. All that’s needed is for you to fill out some details, submit the form, and we’ll take it from there.

When do nominations close?

Nominations close 02 February 2018.

When can I start campaigning?

Candidates can begin online campaigning after Candidate Briefing on 15 February, and physical campaigning on 26 February.

When does voting open?

Voting opens on 26 February and runs until 28 February.

Am I eligible to run?

If you are a member of the Students’ Union (you’re automatically one unless you have opted out) then you are eligible. Undergrad, postgrad, first, second, third year, international student, mature student; anyone can run!

What happens if I win?

You will find out the results of the elections on results night. If you’ve won then congratulations!

What kind of support is available?

The Students’ Union is able to provide a variety of support. You can find various guides on the candidate hub, and workshops and training will be run in the spring term. Full time staff members will also be on hand to assist you during the campaigning process.

When is results night?

Results night will be held on the evening of the 28 February, and will run throughout the night.

Can I nominate a friend?

Yes! If you think a friend would be suited to a role, you can nominate them using our 'refer a friend' survey. We’ll do the rest.

How many people can I have on my campaign team?

As many as you’d like! Past candidates have usually had a small core team in charge of different areas (social media, ideas etc.), with a larger team for canvassing and campaigning.

How much is the candidate’s budget?

Each full-time candidate has a maximum spend of £50, and each part-time candidate can spend a maximum of £20. Candidates may not exceed this spending.

How much is the candidate’s printing budget?

Each candidate, both full-time and part-time, may print up to 100 A4 black and white posters and 50 A4 colour posters.

Can student groups endorse candidates?

No, student groups cannot endorse candidates in an official capacity.

How do I make a complaint about the elections process?

All complaints are considered by the Students’ Union Election team. To submit a complaint please complete the online form.

Submit Complaint

Do the other candidates stand a chance against an incumbent?

Every candidate stands a chance; just because the incumbent won one election doesn’t mean they will win another, especially if students don’t think they have done a good job.

I've seen someone covering up campaign posters, what can I do?

Firstly, posters are not the be-all and end-all of elections and if a candidate’s primary concern is posters then maybe they need to refocus their priorities. However, if you have any concerns you can contact the Assistant Returning Officer who will be able to advise you of the best way forward.

What do we mean by 'allowing students to cast their votes in private'?

We understand that candidates would want to make the process of voting easy and simple. However, they have to make sure that each person has the chance to vote for whoever they want. If they are allowing someone to use their tablet or laptop then they need to make sure they don’t cast the vote for them. Giving them a chance to sit down is a great way of making sure they have enough space and privacy.

Where can people vote?

Voting is open from 26 - 28 February and all votes are cast online through the Students’ Union website. There will be three ballot locations around campus - on the Union Plaza, outside The Hub, and outside the Union Shop.

What is the process if someone can't access the voting system?

First of all they need to check that they are a member of the Students’ Union. They can look through the logging in guide here if they are having problems, or contact the Assistant Returning Officer.