In a very stereotypical start to this blog, I can’t believe almost a third of this year has already passed. Having joined the full-time party a bit late as I was finishing my Masters, the first stretch of this year felt like playing a bit of catch-up. Turns out there was a lot I didn’t know, and everyday ends up as a learning experience.
I’m not really sure where the time has gone – we’ve nearly reached a third of the whole year already! The last few months have essentially been a massive trial by fire – I’ve been learning so many things and meeting so many people that I hadn’t even realised we’d reached 100 days.
Time passes really quickly when you’re a sabbatical officer. Time is an incredibly valuable inexhaustible resource, and I have learnt to make the best use of every precious minute I have in my current role, because once I reach the end of July 2023, that will officially be the end of my tenure. Last year was all about quick wins and short term changes – this year is going to be all about setting up the Union for success in the long term, whilst continuing to campaign on critical issues.
Jumping right into the deep end as the President of a multi-million pounds organisation as my first ever full-time job is not something I have ever expected. The role and the sudden responsibilities put on my shoulders are nothing short of challenging, and the learning curve has felt more like a rocket launch rather than the gentle hike that I may have liked more. But as with all rocket launches, a frame that can withstand unpredictability is required.
We are showing the FIFA World Cup 2022 in our venues as we know that a large number of our members want to watch and support their national teams compete in the competition, and want to do so in our venues which are operated for them. We also recognise that the hosting of the tournament in Qatar is controversial and has raised significant criticism internationally.
UK Disability History Month (16th November 2022 to 16th December 2022) is an annual event focusing on the history of disabled people's struggle for equality and human rights. This month strives to raise awareness to secure equal rights for all people with disabilities, whether seen or hidden.
Authors: Nan Fletcher-Lloyd, Nathalie Podder and Philippa Saunders
You may have seen some posts recently on the power of consent and why it is important. If you are a committee member of a club, society or project (CSP), you may also have completed the consent awareness training rolled out by the Union.
