Hi !
"Oh the Student Union? That’s just a bar right?" Eh, no.
We’re a lot of things to our members (that’s you!). Geordies. The Advice Hub. Freshers Week. But there’s loads more that you might not have even realised we do.
So to help you understand what we are and what we do, we've tried to simplify it into some straight forward phrases.
Which shouts out the most to you?
we are over 80 societies
Whether you're into K-pop, coding, or ultimate frisbee, we help you find your people. Our team supports over 80 student-run societies – from setting them up to helping them run events – so you’ll always find somewhere you belong (or we’ll help you start one).
we are cooking you our chicken goujon wrap
From your first coffee to your Friday treat, our food and drink team is here to keep you fuelled and happy. The famous Chicken Goujon Wrap is a student favourite – cooked up by a team who are mostly students themselves.
we are helping you if you have a problem
Stressed, stuck, or don’t know where to turn? Our Advice Hub is free, confidential, and run by professionals who’ll give you real, practical help when life throws a curveball.
we are listening to you
When you speak, we act. From class reps to Union-wide campaigns, we make sure your voice shapes everything from teaching to how services run across campus.
we are fluffy dogs licking your face
Sometimes you just need a cuddle from a golden retriever to get through the week. We run therapy dog visits and other feel-good events to boost your mood when uni life gets hectic.
we are your local
We’re more than a Union – we’re your student-friendly local hangout. A place to grab a bite, bump into mates, or catch a gig. All right on campus and run for students, by students.
we are fighting for you
We stand up for students – whether that’s pushing for policy changes at uni, lobbying decision-makers, or launching student-led campaigns on the issues that matter to you.
we are cuddling alpacas
We know how stressful uni can get, so we bring the unexpected. Like alpacas on the lawn during exam season. Because sometimes joy comes on four legs and with a fuzzy face.
we are selling you hoodies
Whether you need a comfy hoodie, a lab coat, or just a bag of crisps, our shop has you covered. Run by the Union, every penny goes back into student services.
we are the cheapest meal deal
Lunch shouldn’t cost the earth. Our Meal Deal is one of the cheapest around, helping you stretch your student budget without sacrificing your snacks.
we are keeping you entertained
From pub quizzes and karaoke to live DJs and craft nights, we bring the fun. Our events are all about helping you unwind, meet new people, and make campus life a blast.
we are supporting minority students
Everyone should feel safe and welcome here. We support minority student reps, run campaigns, and celebrate diverse voices to make sure all students are heard and represented.
we are helping keep money in your pocket
We get that money’s tight, so we work to save you cash – with budget-friendly food, community meals, and advice when finances feel overwhelming.
we are fighting to keep a roof over your head
We campaign for better, fairer student housing – from rent prices to safety standards. We’re in talks with local landlords, government, and the university to make sure students get a decent place to live.
we are destressing your exams
Exams are tough, but we’re here to help you breathe. From mindfulness events and free snacks to chill-out spaces, we make sure you’ve got support when it counts.
we are boosting your future career
From running a society to volunteering or becoming a student rep, we help you build confidence and experience that looks great on your CV – and shapes the kind of future you want.
we are celebrating your achievements
You’re doing amazing things – and we think that deserves a shout-out. Our annual awards and recognition events highlight student success across campus, from quiet heroes to big impact makers.
we are choosing your next student leaders
Students run this place – literally. Our elections give you real power to decide who represents your voice. Whether you’re voting or standing, it’s all about putting students in charge and making change happen from the ground up.
we are your Union, not your University
You elect our Officers each year, and they work closely with all parts of the University. It's through this partnership that we are able to do amazing things to make your Uni experience even better.