Sophie Bean I am a 2nd year Medical, who is part of several societies at UEA including med soc, circus soc and Jamnesty. I have previously been a member of the UK youth parliament and represented disabled youths both locally nationally in a variety of roles. I think it is important that disabled students at UEA are fairly represented on the Union council, and that the person doing this should have an understanding of how each student has different needs. I also believe that some changes are needed in order for disabled students to have access to the same quality of university experience as the rest of the student body.
My aims as the Officer for students with disabilities: 1. Provide student lead support groups for individuals with dyslexia, mental health problems and physical disabilities. 2. Set up a buddy scheme for new students with disabilities. 3. Provide more accessible accommodation on campus, not just in the most expensive residences. 4. Have better lighting at night on the access ramps and stairs around campus. 5. Set up a facebook group for disabled students at UEA with the aim of improving the communication of students needs 6. Support the UEA Go Green Campaign and encourage lifts to only be used by individuals who need them. 7. Hold regular open forums with the DOS for students to bring problems to the universities attention 8. Arrange free sign language classes open to all students