NUS UK Affiliation Referendum: Have Your Say

NUS UK Affiliation Referendum: Have Your Say

Aston Students’ Union will soon be holding a referendum giving students the opportunity to vote on whether the SU should remain affiliated with the National Union of Students (NUS UK).

This is your chance to have a direct say on an important decision about how your Students’ Union is connected to national student representation.

What’s the question?

Students will be asked: “Should Aston Students’ Union remain affiliated with NUS UK?”

The referendum has been called in line with the SU’s democratic procedures following a motion passed at Union Council.

What is NUS UK?

NUS UK is a national body made up of students’ unions from across the country. Affiliated unions pay a membership fee and can participate in national conferences, campaigns and policy discussions coordinated by NUS UK.

As with any external affiliation, membership involves both potential benefits and financial costs. The referendum allows Aston students to decide whether this affiliation should continue.

The SU’s role

Aston Students’ Union remains strictly neutral in this referendum.

Our role is to:

• Ensure the process is fair and transparent
• Provide accurate information
• Enable student-led campaigning on either side
• Make voting accessible to all eligible students

The outcome will be determined entirely by student votes.

Who can vote?

All eligible Aston University students will be able to vote online during the official voting period. Full details, including key dates and how to cast your vote, are available on the referendum page of the SU website.

Why your vote matters

Referendums are one of the most direct ways students can shape how their Students’ Union operates. Whether you feel strongly about this issue or simply want to take part in the democratic process, your vote ensures that the final decision reflects the student voice.

Keep an eye on SU communications for confirmed voting dates and further information on how to get involved.