Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

Hi everyone! I’m Caleb, a second-year Cuth’s English Literature student from Castledawson in Northern Ireland. When I joined Durham University, I saw my JCR as a fantastic opportunity to benefit the student body of Durham. I’ve worked with the Outreach, Welfare, EDI, Social, International, PGM, and Finance committees and seen firsthand both the issues that affect students and their ability to change things for the better. We have the power to make things better.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

I am enthuastic about student change and optimistic about its possibility. I believe in the importance of community action and organising and understood the necessity of being informed and educated on the issues. With the upcoming budget cuts, we will have to adjust but we must ensure that the university’s priorities align with our priorities. I want to work and assess every aspect of student life from inductions to PG funding to create a safe, comfortable and enjoyable environment for everyone. I want to continue to be proud that I go to a world-class university.

Why is this role important to you?

The role of SU President must be filled by somebody who will place students and their concerns first- which is what I plan on doing. The role’s importance is in what it can enact for students in every aspect of their life. I want to continue to the fight surrounding the housing crisis- be it continuing to push for the Renters (Reform) Bill or the rights and protections of students living in university accommodations. I want the role to prioritise students’ abilities to access support and the effectiveness of university support for all students. However, the university needs to be held accountable and so does the SU. The SU should act in the interests of all students and do what they ask, when they ask.

Action should be visible and prompt. While it’s important we are proactive, there are issues where students need action to be taking place right now.

What is your pitch to students?

Education does not have to be difficult, and it shouldn’t be. From accessing support to finding housing, we don’t have to struggle. We need to work together. The SU needs a strong voice to advocate for change, but it also needs to pay attention to students and what they want.