Matters arising
Minutes:
It was confirmed that the actions detailed in the minutes of the previous meeting had now been completed.
Two university students, Tabitha Musa and Leah Glenday, were invited to the meeting to discuss their experiences of attending university during a pandemic. It was noted that there were 48 young people within the cared for service who had now started university and the team were very proud of their achievements. Beverley Hendricks, Assistant Director for Safeguarding and Social Care, felt that it was important for members to meet some of the young people who were attending university during a particularly difficult time, who had maintained their education despite these challenges.
The two young students gave an overview of their first year at university and applauded everything that their personal advisor had done for them, who had maintained contact throughout that time.
The Committee were interested to hear the challenges the students had faced during their time remote learning. In response, Tabitha stated that the start of the first year had been in person, until November 2020. This had enabled her to form some initial relationships before the learning had moved to online. Things were just starting to open up again, although it was acknowledged that January had been a tough time for students.
Leah stated that she was fortunate that her university had smaller groups initially which had allowed them to meet in person. She had continued to stay in her accommodation since the start of the first year, as all students had stayed in their individual colleges.
The Chair recognised the great achievements of the students and questioned whether there was anything that the Council could have done differently to assist them further. In response, Leah stated that she had found some of the membership fees to various societies were very expensive, around £200, which often prevented certain individuals from joining. She had also been asked to sign a declaration that she would not undertake any employment during term time, which prevented her from having a chance to build up funds.
The Committee felt that there was a need to challenge universities. It was acknowledged that steps were being taken towards promoting inclusion for everyone, however those individuals with insufficient funds for societies were being excluded from these opportunities. The Committee would look at how this could be followed up with the universities.
It was acknowledged that not all universities had the same support packages and that it was currently up to the individual to disclose their need for support. The Committee believed that some individuals may not feel comfortable in disclosing this and therefore could be a barrier for them.
The Chair, on behalf of the committee, thanked the students for their attendance and was very proud of all that they had achieved so far.