University of Portsmouth Students' Union Guide 2025-26: Overview of Membership, Leadership, and Student Representation

Key takeaways

• As soon as you study at Portsmouth, you automatically become a member of The Union (also known as UPSU or The Union). This membership unlocks access to a wide range of opportunities from day one, including student groups, events, academic advice, leadership chances, skill development, and exclusive student spaces. The Union positions itself as a student-first charity, independent from the University, dedicated to amplifying student voices and ensuring you feel at home during your time at university. (Page 1)
• For the 2025/26 academic year, the Union is led by a team of Elected Officers, each representing different areas important to student life. The officers listed include Simbarashe Dube (Inclusion), Blessing Okafor (Education), Verity Knight (Welfare), and Charday Stone (Opportunities), with contact emails provided for further information and a QR code available for more details. (Page 2)
• Student voice and participation are organized through democratic elections and structured channels. Elections run annually, allowing students to influence who represents them. There is also a possibility to take a placement year to serve as an Elected Officer, and further information can be requested via email. The Student Council comprises the four Elected Officers plus additional student reps, coordinated by a Chair of Council. (Page 3)
• Beyond elections, the Union offers mechanisms to influence policy and course experiences. Have Your Say (HYS) collects ideas from students, and if a small group of peers (typically 15) supports an idea, it advances to Student Council for consideration and potential policy adoption. Student Reps act as the primary advocates for academic interests, and tools like the StAR Tool help gather structured feedback. The Union Insights Team uses surveys (including a monthly Hot Topic and the Annual Survey) to capture member feedback and inform decisions. (Page 4)

University of Portsmouth Students' Union Guide 2025 - Flipbook by Fleepit