Relationship Building with MPs to Promote Student Interests
Relationship Building with MPs to Promote Student Interests
By President: Activities - Prince Ikechi
Over this academic year, I have fostered a collaborative relationship with our regional Members of Parliament (MPs) Lewis Atkinson MP and Bridget Phillipson MP, to ensure that students' voices are amplified at Parliament for the ongoing reforms in the Renters' Rights Bill and the Employment Rights Bill.
These reforms have the potential to significantly impact the living and working conditions of students, making active advocacy and engagement essential.
President: Activities Prince Ikechi and Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education
Renters' Rights Bill
Advocating for the amendment for reforms in the Renters' Rights Bill addresses student housing challenges, particularly the removal of guarantor requirements and capping rental increases. This raised concerns about the financial barriers faced by students due to guarantor requirements, disproportionately impacting international and low-income students. Lewis Atkinson MP expressed strong support for the Students’ Union's concerns, emphasised the importance of fair housing practices for young constituents and is committed to raising the issue during committee discussions and exploring amendments that could better protect student renters.
Employment Rights Bill
The meeting with Bridget Phillipson MP was productive considering her position as the Secretary of State for Education with clear interest on student issues, having an understanding of concerns raised about zero-hour contracts, protection for students in precarious jobs and ensuring fair treatment and pay equity for student employees. Advocating for the amendment for reforms in the Employment Rights Bill addresses the need for flexibility in employment contracts to support students’ academic commitments and build momentum for including provisions that prioritise students' employment rights in the final draft of the Bill.
In Conclusion
The engagements with MP Lewis Atkinson and MP Bridget Phillipson reflect significant progress in advocating for students' interests in housing and employment. With these relationships, the Students’ Union is positioned to ensure that students' interests remain a priority in policymaking and to drive meaningful change in improving the living and working conditions for students nationwide.
President: Activities Prince Ikechi and Lewis Atkinson MP for Sunderland Central
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University of Sunderland Students' Union
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Edinburgh Building, Chester Road
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Company limited by guarantee.
Company registered in England no: 07702161
Registered Charity no: 1148212
VAT no: 178592316
