Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

I’m Kerrie, a second year Politics & International Relations student, originally from West Yorkshire. I’m from John Snow College, where I am currently disability agent and president of Art Society & Crochet Society, secretary of Plant Society and participant in Dance Society. Outside of this, I’m really passionate about hiking, cats, health, & music. I’m very easy to spot with my bright pink hair so feel free to come chat if you see me!

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

If elected, you can expect an officer with both lived experience and work experience in welfare. Having accessed support inside and outside of university as well as having worked with the NHS, I know the significant impact bad mental health and well-being can have on someone and the difficulties accessing support. As an officer, I will ensure all students have the opportunity to get involved and be seen, using campaigns, working with college welfare & providing welfare events in the wider community to make welfare accessible for all. From me, expect passion, experience, ambition, involvement, & a friendly face.

Why is this role important to you?

This role is important to me because within university, we still do not have an open dialogue about health and well-being. Around 1 in 5 students in higher education report a disability or long-term condition and 1 in 6 report a diagnosed mental health condition. Everyone has the right to equal education, but these figures show a significant amount of us are incredibly disadvantaged. As someone with lived experience, it is vital that all members of our community get to make the most of their education and university experience, not having to sacrifice their wellbeing for it. I will use this role to further work towards creating an environment where all students feel comfortable talking about their health, making the university community safe and happy for all of us. All in all, making Durham truly a home away from home.

What is your pitch to students?

Visibility accessibility, passion - that’s what my campaign is all about. I will highlight accessible, visible information to allow all students to have autonomy over their welfare, fuelled by passion & determination to get the community involved in improved mental and physical health.