The QMU Students' Union this year will focus on building upon its success last year as runner-up in the national NUS Participation Awards 2007/8.

The exec seeks to furthermore increase student participation with greater surveying amongst the student body to gauge the needs and expectations of our members on student welfare and service provision.

In a period of economic uncertainty the Exec are acutely aware of student finances. We are aware of the issues that prohibit students from enjoying a sustainable period of study and the breathing space to contribute to and enjoy the wider activities associated with the student experience.

Building upon our manifesto mandate to introduce a "cheaper and healthier" student experience and promote greater integration amongst different cohorts of students, our biggest initiative for the year will be our Volunteer Recognition Programme (VRP). The programme aims to recognize and unite 200 volunteering roles in students' union and university related activities. Students participating in the programme will enjoy concessions for university and union commercial services, in addition to training and accreditation opportunities.

New opportunities for volunteers will include a student survey team, borrow-a-bike scheme, Re:Use project, ambassadorial roles, international hosting, campus cinema, DVD production and a new QM social networking website. Current members of the student parliament, sports and societies captains/chairs, vice captains/co-chairs and treasurers, editorial members of The Echo newspaper, Raise and Give (RAG) members and Rights, Advice and Welfare (RAW) centre volunteers will also be recognized under the VRP.

Plans are also underway to introduce a campaign promoting positive mental health through awareness raising, education and preventative measures. In addition, we are keen to work with NUS on promoting responsible drinking campaigns, tenancy issues surrounding students, and funding issues in higher education.

One particular goal is to harness the energy amongst our students to contribute to local community projects and seek involvement in projects and activities overseas. Andrew McClean, Vice-President, plans to lead a team to Malawi next summer to continue links already made this summer with different health and social projects in that country. The annual sports tour will be reintroduced this year and union social events will focus on fundraising for union, local, national and international causes that our students can get directly involved in.