UCL Union is the oldest students' union in England (Scotland actually had them first), and it is run by elected student officers voted for by their peers.
Full Time Sabbatical Officers take a year out from their studies (or at the end of their degree) to run a particular aspect of the Union. They receive a salary and jointly become trustees of the Union, responsible for overseeing all aspects of its operation. UCLU elects six Full Time Officers a year, taking charge of finance and services; communications; clubs and societies; education and campaigns; student welfare; and medics and postgraduates respectively.
Along with these officers, there are twelve elected Forum Chairs who convene their respective Student Forum. Students elected as Forum Chairs carry out their responsibilities while continuing to study for their course.
Full Time Officers and Forum Chairs sit on Union Council, along with a number of other representatives such as Faculty Representatives. Council is the policy-making body of the Union, and considers all manner of student issues. It sets policy through the passing of motions, and can only be overruled by a members' meeting or referenda.
All officers and representatives are expected to debate matters of concern to the Union and its student members, and taken action where necessary. Such action - be it the implementation of a boycott, or the sending of a letter of disapproval - will usually be carried out by the Full Time Officers, aided by appropriate Forum Chairs. Mandating an officer to carry out a task requires them to act as instructed, on the Union's behalf.
UCLU Officers are there to represent you, so if you feel that there is an issue that your Union should address, then get in touch. All contact details are in the Student Officers section. And getting involved yourself is almost as easy - just keep your eyes peeled for the next set of elections, and prepare your campaign.
Speak to one of the current officers to find out more about what it is like (click here).