TW: Mentions of sexual and physical harassment and violence
Hi everyone,
I’m Abby, your Welfare & Community Officer and it’s my job to ensure students feel supported, safe, and able to thrive during their time at UOB. With this, I’ve been working hard towards improving access to welfare services, tackling inequalities, and building a stronger, more connected student community. Here’s a quick update on what I’ve been working on so far…
Chat for Change: Selly Oak Safety Event with MP Al Carns
I recently invited local MP Al Carns, West Midlands Police and community members to a roundtable discussion around Student Safety in Selly Oak. We discussed some of the key concerns raised by students, including harassment and violence of sexual and physical nature, anti-social behaviour, bin strikes and poor waste, and student and resident relationships. I raised the need for improved police presence, empowerment of students to report incidents and find support, and increasing pressure on the council to respond to these issues. These conversations are ongoing, and I’ll be working to ensure students are represented in any local safety initiatives.
Liberation Forum Engagement
I also set up the Liberation Forum this month, where I heard directly from students representing various liberation groups and communities. We talked about the different academic and wellbeing challenges facing marginalised students, including lacking campaign support and spaces to advocate for change. These conversations are helping shape my campaign work to be responsive and inclusive of all students’ needs, not just the majority.
Cost of Living Support
The rising cost of living is still a major issue for many students. I’ve been campaigning to expand support both financial and practical. This includes pushing for more hardship funding, working to expand Community Breakfast, and promoting support for renters. Your feedback has been key here, and I’m using what you share to advocate for better funding and support systems.
Looking Ahead
Over the next few months, I’ll be continuing to lobby for stronger cost of living measures, following up on safety commitments made by local stakeholders, and working with the University and Guild to improve welfare services across campus.
I want to hear from you! Whether it’s about safety, wellbeing, cost of living, or anything else, your input shapes the work I do.
You can email me or keep updated with my campaign work on Instagram.
Thanks for reading.