Student union halts its activities over concerns

The SU says its aim is to "improve the overall experience" for students at the University of Oxford

A student union (SU) has announced it is scaling back activities while it addresses concerns relating to its ability to "effectively" operate and represent the student body.

Oxford SU said on Thursday 21 March that it was implementing a "transformation plan" that would see "operations cut back to all but the most essential activities" in the interim.

The Union said the transformation plan would focus on improved clarity about the SU's purpose, a "more responsive student representation system", and better support for sabbatical officers.

It is unclear how long the closure will last, but the Freshers Fair in 2024 is listed as a "key" activity which is currently set to go ahead.

In a letter to students, the SU said a review had been launched looking at the effectiveness of the body to represent students, as well as internal analysis of its "effectiveness, governance and financial stability".

"From this it was clear that urgent action was needed," the statement said.

"In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the SU’s ability to operate and represent the student body effectively.

"This has also created additional pressure on sabbatical officers."

The SU said the main goal of the transformation plan was to "create a fully functioning student engagement system which is fit for purpose and a sustainable organisation to deliver it".

The union is inviting input from students.

In the interim, "essential activities" will continue to go ahead, including welfare provision, the student advice service, and student representation on "important" committees.