What do they do?

Local associations/unions are there to do the same kind of job as UHISA, but on a local level; as UHISA is the representative body for UHI students only (which means just those studying at HNC-level or above), there needs to be representation for students who study in the UHI colleges, but who don't study at a UHI level. It is also difficult to change elements of one college or another on a UHI level, so having your own group in your own college who make efforts to develop the student experience in their neck of the woods is very sensible.

How can I join?

As a student, you are automatically a member of your local association/union (assuming you have one in your college), so you don't have to go through any process to join the association, and you certainly don't have to pay any membership fees. There is always a decision-making body at the head of the association (usually called an 'Executive Committee') who will make decisions on your behalf, so it is wise to find out what their plans are for the year - that way you can check whether or not they are taking your needs/views into consideration.

To be part of the running of your local association, you will need to either go along to their meetings (every student in your area should be welcome to attend) or make sure they have made the minutes of their meetings available so that you can find out what has been discussed. Elections for Executive posts should be well advertised and open to all who want to be involved, so even if you don't want to run for one of the office-bearing posts, you can still vote in them and make your voice heard.

What is UHISA's role?

Members of the UHISA Executive Committee spend time throughout the year liaising with local associations, which can be very useful. Your UHISA college rep should be invited to take part in college association meetings; this provides them with information about some of the issues relevant to UHI students in their college, and also provides the local association with information about some of the issues and activities that are going on at a UHI level. 

There is no financial assistance available from UHISA for local association activities, but there is plenty of practical advice and information at hand to give to those who need it.

What if there isn't one near me?

If you find that there is no local students' association or union in your UHI college, you have every right to go about the business of trying to set one up. There should be support (hopefully both financial and practical) from your college if you are trying to get one going, but the UHI Student Development Officer, Emma Corbett, is also available to give advice if you need it. Bear in mind that it is the job of the students themselves to stand up for their rights, so don't rely on staff members to do all the donkey work for you!

Emma Corbett can be contacted using Emma.Corbett@uhi.ac.uk