Sheffield Hallam Students' Union

Who we are

We're HSU, your gateway to exciting events, expert support, and opportunities that give you the edge. All students of Sheffield Hallam University are members of the Students'​ Union. Being a member means having unlimited access to all the events, activities and services we provide. As a not-for-profit organisation, social enterprise and registered charity, we reinvest our income straight back into improving the services we offer for the 35,000 students of Sheffield Hallam. We are committed to enhancing the student experience by making a positive difference through the development and delivery of student focused activities. The Students’ Union is student led. A team of five full-time Officers support 12 part-time Union Representatives, all of whom have been democratically elected by the student body. Officers help to ensure that everything we do is student centred and liaise formally and informally to ensure their views are represented to the University, the community and nationally. In addition, a dedicated and professional staff team provide operational and strategic support in the delivery of our services. There is a strong emphasis on developing students and providing them with the opportunities to gain new skills and experiences to enhance their employability. Students’ Union events, clubs and societies have also been established to enable students to meet new people and develop their skills and experiences.

Our culture and values

The culture and values of Sheffield Hallam Students' Union (SHSU) reflect its mission to support students during their time at the university and enhance their university experience. SHSU aims to create an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment where students can thrive both academically and socially.

Here are some key aspects of SHSU's culture and values:

1. Inclusivity and Diversity

• Welcoming Environment: SHSU strives to create a welcoming space for students of all backgrounds, ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging. The Union is committed to fostering diversity, equality, and inclusion across all its activities and events.
• Support for Marginalized Groups: SHSU actively works to support minority groups through campaigns, representation, and dedicated societies for LGBTQ+, BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic), and other underrepresented communities.

2. Student Representation and Advocacy

• Student Voice: The Union is a key advocate for student interests, ensuring students' voices are heard at the university level and beyond. Elected officers represent the student body and work on issues such as tuition fees, student welfare, and academic support.
• Campaigns and Activism: SHSU engages in various campaigns to bring awareness to issues important to students, such as mental health, climate change, sexual consent, and student welfare.

3. Community and Engagement

• Student Societies and Activities: SHSU is home to a wide range of student-run societies, clubs, and sports teams, allowing students to engage in extracurricular activities, meet new people, and build a sense of community.
• Volunteering and Social Action: The Union promotes social responsibility through volunteering opportunities, encouraging students to give back to the community, both locally and globally.

4. Support and Wellbeing

• Welfare Services: SHSU provides a range of services aimed at supporting students' mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. These include advice on housing, finance, academic issues, and personal support.
• Mental Health Awareness: The Union places a strong emphasis on mental health, promoting initiatives to reduce stigma and provide resources and workshops for students to manage their mental health.

5. Sustainability

• Environmental Consciousness: SHSU is committed to sustainability, running initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and ethical sourcing. The Union encourages students to engage in environmental advocacy and sustainable living.

6. Innovation and Empowerment

• Skill Development: The Union offers various opportunities for students to develop skills beyond the classroom, from leadership roles in societies to volunteering and part-time work within the Union.
• Entrepreneurship and Creativity: SHSU supports student entrepreneurship, creative initiatives, and social enterprises, helping students turn ideas into action.

7. Democratic and Student-Led

• Elections and Accountability: The Students' Union is run by elected student officers who are chosen by the student body. This democratic structure ensures that the Union is truly student-led and accountable to its members.
• Feedback and Involvement: Students are encouraged to participate in decision-making through forums, surveys, and consultations, making sure their input directly shapes the Union's services and priorities.

Overall, SHSU is a dynamic and student-focused organization that prioritizes inclusivity, representation, wellbeing, and personal development. Through these values, it seeks to empower students to make the most of their time at university and beyond.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

The Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Policy of Sheffield Hallam Students' Union (SHSU) is aimed at fostering a fair, inclusive, and diverse environment where all students, staff, and stakeholders are treated with respect and dignity. While I can summarize the general principles usually contained in such policies, it's always a good idea to refer to the official SHSU website or policy document for specifics.

General Principles of SHSU's EDI Policy

1. Commitment to Equality:

   • SHSU promotes equal opportunities regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, socioeconomic background, or other characteristics.
   • SHSU works to ensure all students and staff can participate fully in all aspects of union life without discrimination or harassment.

2. Diversity and Representation:

   • The Students' Union strives to reflect the diversity of its student population and ensure that all voices are heard and represented.
   • It aims to celebrate and promote cultural, religious, and individual diversity through events, campaigns, and initiatives.

3. Inclusivity:

   • The Union actively seeks to break down barriers to participation, ensuring that everyone, including minority and underrepresented groups, has access to its services, activities, and leadership opportunities.
   • SHSU promotes an environment that welcomes students with disabilities, mental health issues, and learning difficulties, ensuring the necessary adjustments are made to facilitate their participation.

4. Zero Tolerance of Discrimination:

   • SHSU has a strict zero-tolerance policy on all forms of discrimination, harassment, and bullying, ensuring that any reports are taken seriously and handled according to their procedures.
   • The policy encourages bystander intervention and proactive actions to prevent discrimination.

5. Training and Awareness:

   • The Students' Union provides training and education to its staff, volunteers, and student representatives to promote understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
   • It regularly updates its practices to align with legal requirements and best practices in EDI.

6. Accountability and Reporting:

   • SHSU has procedures in place to handle complaints and grievances related to discrimination or inequality. This includes confidential reporting channels and clear steps for resolution.
   • The union continuously monitors and reviews its policies and practices to ensure they remain effective and relevant.