Durham Students' Union

Overview

The Durham Students' Union is a UK-based nonprofit organization that was originally established as the Durham Colleges Students' Representative Council in 1899. It was renamed in 1969 to its current form. The union is dedicated to representing and supporting the interests of students at Durham University.

Mission

The mission of the Durham Students' Union is to provide a unified platform for students from across the university to come together, discuss issues affecting them, and work collaboratively on these matters. As a collegiate university, Durham Students' Union supports students through various services and activities.

Structure and Governance

The union operates as a company limited by guarantee (07689815) and is registered as a charity (1145400) in England and Wales. It is governed by a Board of Trustees responsible for ensuring that the organization complies with both charity law and obligations under The Education Act 1994.

Activities and Services

• Representation and Advocacy: Durham Students' Union represents students' voices at all levels within the university, working to address issues that affect the student experience.
• Student Groups and Societies: The union supports over 200 student clubs and societies, covering a wide range of interests including academic, arts, culture, faith, and more.
• Associations: It acts as an umbrella for eight associations, which provide a space for students to advocate for issues specific to their identities and experiences.
• Events and Campaigns: The students' union organizes events like the Fresher's Fair at the beginning of each academic year and runs campaigns aimed at improving student welfare and services.
• Facilities and Spaces: Historically, it managed facilities such as the Kingsgate Bar and Café within Dunelm House, although this was temporarily closed due to financial constraints.

Charitable Activities

The Durham University Charities Committee (DUCK) is the charitable arm of the Durham Students' Union. DUCK organizes fundraising activities, including expeditions, challenges, and community events, to support various causes.

Relations with Durham University

While Durham Students' Union is a separate entity from Durham University, they work closely together. Each college within the university has its own student representative body, known as the Junior Common Room (JCR), some of which are affiliated with the central union.

Volunteer and Employee Structure

Durham Students' Union relies heavily on volunteers, with approximately 9,000 volunteers supporting its activities. It also employs a small number of staff members, with a few roles offering benefits exceeding £60,000.

Overall, the Durham Students' Union plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community among Durham University students while advocating for their interests and welfare.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durham_Students'_Union [2] https://www.durhamsu.com [3] https://www.durham.ac.uk/about-us/governance/governance-documentation/durham-students-union/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1145400&subId=0 [5] https://www.durhamsu.com/about