Your Vote, Your Voice: Understanding Your Rights as a Voter in the SU Elections

Every year, RSU elections gives you (the students) a chance to shape the direction of your Students’ Union (SU). These elections aren’t just about choosing leaders—they’re about amplifying your voice and making a tangible impact on your student experience. This blog will help you understand your rights as a voter and why it’s so important to take part in the election process.

What Are Your Rights as a Voter?

When you participate in the SU elections, you are exercising important democratic rights that empower you and your peers. Here’s what you’re entitled to as a voter:

1. The Right to Vote Freely
   Your vote is your choice, and no one can pressure you to vote for a particular candidate. The SU enforces strict campaigning rules to ensure that your decision is made independently and without undue influence.
2. The Right to Fair Representation
   Every student has an equal say in the election process, whether you’re a full-time, part-time, or online learner. Your vote contributes to electing leaders who will represent the diverse needs of the entire student body.
3. The Right to Access Information
   You have the right to learn about each candidate before voting. Candidate manifestos, campaign events, and social media campaigns are there to help you make an informed decision. If you need support accessing this information, the SU is here to assist.
4. The Right to Confidentiality
   Voting is done via a secure, online platform, and your ballot is entirely confidential. No one will know who you voted for unless you choose to share it.
5. The Right to Challenge Misconduct
   If you notice any violations of election rules—such as harassment, bribery, or tampering with the voting process—you have the right to report it to the SU. Complaints are taken seriously and addressed swiftly to protect the fairness of the election.

Why Is It Important to Vote?

Voting is more than just ticking a box—it’s about shaping the future of your university experience and the wider student community. Here’s why your vote matters:

1. You Decide Who Represents You
   The SU leaders you elect will advocate for your needs on key issues like tuition fees, campus facilities, and mental health support. By voting, you’re choosing who will champion the causes that matter most to you.
2. You Influence Change
   Every vote contributes to decisions about how the SU is run, the services it offers, and the events it hosts. If you want to see changes or improvements, voting is a direct way to make that happen.
3. You Strengthen Democracy
   By participating in elections, you’re reinforcing the democratic process. This helps build a stronger, more inclusive SU that truly reflects the voices of all its members.
4. You Set an Example
   When you vote, you inspire others to take part too. The more students who participate, the more representative the election results will be.

How to Make the Most of Your Vote

• Stay Informed: Read candidate manifestos and attend campaign events to understand what each candidate stands for.
• Engage with Candidates: Ask questions, share your ideas, and get to know who you’re voting for.
• Vote Early: Don’t leave it to the last minute—log in and vote as soon as the polls open.
• Encourage Others: Spread the word and encourage your friends to vote too.

How to Cast Your Vote

Voting is simple and convenient. All you need to do is:

1. Log in to the SU voting platform using your student credentials.
2. Review the candidate profiles and rank your choices in order of preference.
3. Submit your ballot!

Remember, voting opens on Tuesday 25 February at 11:00 and closes on Thursday 27 February at 11:00. 
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Final Thoughts

Your vote has the power to shape the SU and create a better student experience for everyone. Whether it’s improving mental health resources, organising exciting events, or advocating for inclusivity, the leaders you choose will play a key role in making it happen.

So, when the polls open, take a few minutes to make your voice heard. Because at the end of the day, your vote is your voice—and it matters.

Ready to make a difference? Head to Elections page and vote starting Tuesday 25 February at 11:00!

Let us know what issues matter most to you in the comments or reach out to the Elections Team at elections@roehampton.ac.uk. Together, let’s shape the future of the SU!