Student Representative Council (SRC) Restructure

If you’ve seen DUSA’s socials over the past few weeks, spoken to us at the Exec stall, or caught us at the welcome talks, you’ll know SRC election nominations are now open!

This year, the SRC looks a little different. We’ve had some students reach out with questions about the restructure, so we want to explain what’s changed and why. For new students, this should give you a clear picture of how the SRC works. For returning students, we hope this clears up any worries and shows how the changes are designed to strengthen student voice.

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Q: Why the change? Where did it come from?

A: Every year, the Executive can review the composition of the SRC as part of its Standing Orders. This summer, the Exec took that opportunity to strengthen the SRC, making it more effective and impactful. We examined how the SRC operates, how it engages with students, and how it could better represent the student body.

Following consultation with the incoming and outgoing SRC Chairs, and the returning Independent Member of Court(IMC)/former Vice Chair of SRC, the Exec submitted a paper to the Board which formally approved the changes.

The SRC hasn’t had a significant restructure in years, aside from adding more roles. A long list of titles might look representative, but if those roles don’t have a clear purpose or support, they risk becoming symbolic rather than meaningful. The restructure wasn’t about scrapping opportunities – it was about creating a model where every position has real influence and is better supported.

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Q: Why are there fewer positions? Does this reduce student voice?

A: Previously, there were many very specific roles, which sometimes led to low uptake, overlap, or lack of support. This year, similar roles have been grouped into broader Councillor positions. That way, each Councillor role is more visible, has a clearer purpose, and can carry more influence within the Council.

Even with fewer voting roles, there are still 23 votes in the room – made up of:

• SRC Chair
• 7 Executives
• 8 School Presidents
• Sports Union President
• Independent Member of Court
• 5 elected Councillors

Where roles have been merged, the original positions haven’t disappeared – they’ve become deputy roles. Deputies provide additional support and input, meaning more students can get involved, while keeping the overall structure streamlined and effective. Deputies (and any student) are always welcome to attend SRC meetings and contribute to discussion.

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Q: What are deputies? How do I become one?

A: Deputy Councillors are a new addition this year. Unlike elected Councillors, they’re appointed by co-option at the first SRC meeting. If you’d like to stand, you’ll be asked to give a short speech on why you’d be a good fit, and Councillors will then vote.

Deputies don’t have voting rights, and they’re not required to attend every SRC meeting, but they can shape subcommittee discussions and support Councillors in their work. It’s a great way to get involved and have your say while balancing other commitments.

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Q: How will subcommittees work with fewer people?

A: Subcommittees have also been refreshed. Previously, they were chaired by members of the Exec. This year, Councillors will take the lead, with Exec members attending in a supportive role (for example, taking minutes).

This change is designed to give Councillors leadership experience and ownership of their areas, which can be a great stepping stone to running for other positions in future. Deputies will also be part of subcommittees, contributing to discussions before issues are brought to the full SRC.

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Q: This was done without student input – why should we support it?

A: The changes were developed with input from a range of voices: the past and incoming SRC Chairs, the current IMC/former Deputy Chair, experienced student representatives, and DUSA staff with long-standing involvement in student governance.

We know no restructure is perfect on day one – which is why this is being treated as a pilot year. If it works well, it can be built on. If it doesn’t, it can be adapted. The goal is to strengthen the SRC, not weaken it, and your feedback will help shape how it develops.