Gusrc Constitution

GLASGOW UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL CONSTITUTION

Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL CONSTITUTION

CONSTITUTION ................................................................................................ 2

SCHEDULE 1 – Membership............................................................................. 9

SCHEDULE 2 – Elections ................................................................................ 10

SCHEDULE 3 – Code of conduct .................................................................... 19

SCHEDULE 4 – Services & finance................................................................. 25

SCHEDULE 5 – Clubs & societies ................................................................... 27

SCHEDULE 6 – Student support groups ......................................................... 28

SCHEDULE 7 – Regulation of meetings.......................................................... 30

SCHEDULE 8 – Council policies...................................................................... 32

SCHEDULE 9 – Complaints procedure ........................................................... 33

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY ................................................................ 34

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

CONSTITUTION  1.

NAME

There will be a students’ association known as the ‘University of Glasgow Students’ Representative Council’ (‘the SRC’).

2.

DEFINITIONS

In this Constitution, schedules and any standing orders: ‘Academic session’ has the same meaning as given under the University of Glasgow’s regulations. ‘Code of Practice’ means the Code of Practice issued by the University from time to time in accordance with the Education Act 1994. ‘Council’ means the governing body of the students’ association known as the University of Glasgow Students’ Representative Council. ‘Executive’ means those Council members elected to implement and represent Council policies. ‘Member’ means a matriculated student of the University of Glasgow who has not opted out of representation by, or membership of, the SRC under the terms of the Education Act 1994. ‘Semester’ has the same meaning as given under the University of Glasgow’s regulations. ‘SRC’ means the students’ association known as the University of Glasgow Students’ Representative Council. ‘Student’ means a member. ‘University’ means the University of Glasgow. Reference to any statute or regulation includes reference to any legislation which repeals and re-enacts with or without modification. Words in the singular include the plural.

3.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the SRC are to: 3.1

Represent and promote the general interests of students of the University.

3.2

Advance civic responsibility by providing a recognised means of communication between students and the Court and Senate of the University.

3.3

To prevent and relieve poverty and advance health by providing welfare services for students and potential students.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

3.4

To advance the arts, culture, education, heritage, science and sport by providing amenities and supporting activities for students.

3.5

To promote equality of opportunity amongst students and challenge all forms of discrimination whether based on sex, age, race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, religion, cultural background or other such status.

4

EDUCATION ACT 1994

Every matriculated student of the University will be represented by the Council and will be a member of the SRC unless a student exercises his or her right not to be, in accordance with the Education Act 1994. Procedures for opting out of representation and/or membership are outlined in Schedule 1 and are in accordance with the Code of Practice.

5

COMPLAINTS

The procedure for complaints about any aspect or activity of the SRC is set out in Schedule 9.

6

MEMBERSHIP OF THE SRC

Membership of the SRC is automatic for all students of the University.

Any member of

the SRC may seek nomination to, and participate in, the election of the Council in accordance with Schedule 2. Members are subject to the Code of Conduct in Schedule 3. 7

MEMBERSHIP OF THE COUNCIL

The Council is representative of all students of the University. All Council members are subject to the Code of Conduct in Schedule 3. The Council will: 7.1

Be elected by students in accordance with Schedule 2.

7.2

Consist of ex officio members in accordance with Schedule 2.

7.3

Set the strategic policy and audit the financial and business affairs of the SRC in accordance with Schedule 8.

7.4

Consist of no more than 37 members.

8

MEMBERSHIP OF THE EXECUTIVE

An Executive of no more than 12 Council members will be elected in accordance with Schedule 2 and will have responsibility for implementing and representing SRC policies within the University and externally in accordance with Schedules 4 and 8. The Executive

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

may determine the procedure for affiliation and grants for clubs and societies in accordance with Schedule 5 and student support groups in accordance with Schedule 6.

9

OFFICE OF PRESIDENT, DEPUTE PRESIDENT, & VICE-PRESIDENTS

A President, Depute President and Vice-Presidents will be elected in accordance with Schedule 2.

The President will chair meetings of the Council and Executive subject to

Schedule 7. The President will be the spokesperson on behalf the SRC.

10

OFFICE OF PERMANENT SECRETARY

The Permanent Secretary will be appointed by the Executive and will undertake responsibility for the day-to-day management of SRC services on behalf of the Executive in accordance with Schedule 4.

The Permanent Secretary must not be a full-time or

sabbatical student of any educational body. 11

POWERS

Subject to paragraph 12, the Executive on behalf of the Council will have the same powers as Trustees under Scots law and in particular will have power: 11.1

To lease or rent land or buildings from the University.

11.2

To operate within the University shops or other facilities to provide students with such goods and services as it or the Council may decide.

11.3

To borrow and to raise money in pursuance of any of the Council’s functions.

11.4

To invest the monies of the SRC not immediately required for the performance of its functions in or upon such investments, securities or property as may be thought fit.

11.5

To employ such staff as it believes necessary in order to implement the SRC’s policies, and to determine the terms and conditions of employment.

12

FINANCE

The Executive must ensure that all funds provided to it by the University are used only in accordance with the Education Act 1994, the Code of Practice, the objectives of the SRC set out in paragraph 3 of the Constitution, and other statutory requirements or such conditions which the University may from time to time decide. In particular the Executive must through the Permanent Secretary: 12.1

Keep any and all bank accounts in the SRC’s name.

12.2

Keep accounts and accounting records in accordance with ordinary professional accounting principals.

12.3

Maintain a sound system of internal financial management and control.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

12.4

Plan and conduct the SRC’s financial affairs so as to ensure that annual income is sufficient to meet total annual expenditure, with any divergence from this requirement requiring prior approval of the University.

12.5

Obtain the prior written consent of the University to any transaction involving land, buildings and equipment worth in excess of the sum prescribed in the Code of Practice.

12.6

Obtain the prior written consent of the University to the borrowing of money for a period in excess of twelve months.

12.7

Not give any guarantee or indemnities incurring contingent liabilities other than in the normal course of business.

12.8

Maintain adequate property and public liability insurance cover.

12.9

Not proceed with any expenditure decision exceeding the prescribed sum without the prior agreement of at least one financial observer.

The Secretary of Court

shall appoint two financial observers who will be invited to, receive papers for and have the right to attend, all meetings of the Executive Committee in a non-voting capacity. The prescribed sum for the purpose of this sub-paragraph will be no less than £1,000 or such higher sum as may be authorised in writing by the Secretary of Court. 13

SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTS AND LEGAL DOCUMENTS

13.1

All contracts and legal documents must be signed on behalf of the SRC by the President and the Permanent Secretary. The Depute President may act as a substitute signatory for the President where the President is not available. Where the Permanent Secretary is absent he or she, or the Secretary of Court, may appoint another member of SRC staff as a substitute signatory, subject to such conditions as appropriate.

14

MEETINGS OF THE SRC, COUNCIL & EXECUTIVE

14.1

No meetings of the Council, including a Yearly Reporting or Extraordinary General Meeting of the SRC, will be held outwith the University semesters or on a University holiday.

Ordinary Meetings of the Council 14.2

The Council will meet a minimum of six times each calendar year, the first meeting being not later than two weeks after the annual Council autumn elections have taken place.

Subject to room capacity, any student, may attend a Council

meeting but may only participate with the permission of the Chair.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

14.3

The Permanent Secretary, appropriate SRC support staff and the University’s Financial Observers may attend meetings of Council.

14.4

Three ordinary meetings will take place in the first semester and three in the second semester. Subject to paragraph 14.2 the Executive Committee will set the precise dates for Council meetings and notification of meetings will be provided to all Council members through the Permanent Secretary.

Yearly Reporting Meeting of the SRC 14.5

A Yearly Reporting Meeting of all members of the SRC will be called in each academic year no later than three weeks after the Council spring elections.

All

members will be given at least two weeks notification of the Yearly Reporting Meeting through SRC publications or general notices.

The purpose of this

meeting is to provide students with a report on the work and finances of the SRC over the last year, including details of subscriptions and donations made to affiliated organisations.

Extraordinary Meetings of the Council 14.6

The President, whom failing the Permanent Secretary, must call an Extraordinary Meeting of Council if requested by at least one third of the current membership of the Executive or Council, or two per cent of the total membership of the SRC. Fractions are rounded up.

All requests must be in writing and indicate the

purpose of the meeting. An Extraordinary Meeting of Council must be held within two weeks after a proper request is received and Council members will be given one weeks notice of this meeting through the Permanent Secretary. 14.7

No business other than the original purpose of the meeting detailed within the written request will be discussed at an Extraordinary Meeting of Council

Chairing of meetings 14.8

The President, or where he or she declines, an Executive member selected by the Executive in accordance with Schedule 7 and paragraph 14.9, will chair council and Executive Committee meetings. If the President or Chair is absent, meetings will be chaired by the Depute President, whom failing a member of the Executive as may be agreed by Council.

Voting at meetings of Council 14.9

Each member of the Council is entitled to cast one vote on any decision put to the Council.

Votes are not transferable and only members present at the time a

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decision is put to a meeting may vote.

The method of voting for elections to

committees is at the discretion of the Chair.

In the event of a vote of no

confidence in the Chair the Permanent Secretary will chair Council for the purpose of that vote.

Where a vote of no confidence is upheld a new Chair will

be appointed in accordance with Schedule 7.

Conduct of meetings 14.10 The conduct of all meetings is set out in Schedule 7.

Minutes 14.11 Minutes of meetings of the Council, the Executive Committee and any of its subcommittees, will be kept by the Permanent Secretary and will be open to inspection by any student or member of the public subject to paragraph 14.12. 14.12 No information falling within the Data Protection Act 1998, or information which in principle could be exempted from disclosure in terms of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 may be released to any student or third party.

15

AFFILIATION TO EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS

15.1

The Council will be able to affiliate to external organisations so long as this is compatible with paragraph 3 of this Constitution, the Education Act 1994 and the Code of Practice.

15.2

The Permanent Secretary will keep a record of all affiliations to external organisations with details of any subscriptions or donations made.

This list will

be published annually.

16

SCHEDULES AND STANDING ORDERS

Council may make or amend such Schedules and Standing Orders as may be necessary for implementing the provisions and aims of this Constitution subject to the following conditions: 16.1

The approval of two-thirds of those present and voting at a properly called meeting of Council provided that at least fourteen days written notice of the precise terms of the order has been given to all members of Council through the Permanent Secretary.

16.2

In the case of a Schedule, no amendment will come into effect unless and until the University Court gives its written approval to the President and the Permanent Secretary.

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16.3

Where a proposed amendment or addition to a Standing Order or Schedule has been unsuccessful, a proposal of a similar outcome may not be moved again until a period of at least 3 months has elapsed. The Chair, whose decision under this sub-paragraph is final, will decide the question of whether a proposal is similar to an unsuccessful proposal.

In reaching a decision the Chair should have regard

to any advice given by the Permanent Secretary. 16.4

The Executive may make or amend such Executive Standing Orders as may be necessary for implementing its remit under this Constitution subject to the approval of two-thirds of those present and voting at a properly called meeting of the Executive provided that at least seven days written notice of the precise terms of the order has been given to all members of the Executive

by the

Permanent Secretary. 16.5

The provisions of 16 to 16.3 do not apply to paragraph 15 of Schedule 2.

17

AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION

This Constitution may be amended with the approval of two-thirds of those present and voting at a properly called meeting of Council subject to the following conditions: 17.1

The Permanent Secretary has given Council members at least four weeks written notice of the precise terms of the amendment, and advertised the details of the proposed change on the appropriate SRC and University notice boards;

17.2

No less than two-thirds of the actual membership of Council are present;

17.3

No amendment to the Constitution will come into effect unless and until the University Court gives its written approval to the President and the Permanent Secretary.

17.4

Where a proposed amendment to the Constitution has been unsuccessful, a similar proposal may not be moved again until a period of at least six months has elapsed. The Chair, whose decision under this sub-paragraph is final, will decide the question of whether a proposal is similar to an unsuccessful proposal.

In

reaching a decision the Chair should have regard to any advice given by the Permanent Secretary. 18

REVIEW OF THE CONSTITUTION

The Constitution will be subject to review by the University at intervals of not more than five years.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

SCHEDULE 1 – Membership  1

Every matriculated student of the University is automatically a member of the SRC and will be represented by the Council.

2

Students have the right to opt out of membership of the SRC and/or representation by the Council.

This right may be exercised after matriculation

but before the call for nominations for Council elections.

A decision to opt out

may be exercised once per academic session and will be valid for the duration of that academic session only.

3

Any decision to opt out in terms of this Schedule will be notified to the Permanent Secretary who will keep a record of this decision and will advise the Council and University Court of the number of students opting out, from time to time.

4

Members who opt out in terms of this Schedule will continue to enjoy full access to SRC services but will not be entitled to participate in Council affairs as a voter, electoral candidate and/or officer.

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SCHEDULE 2 – Elections  Entitlement to vote 1.

Every member is entitled to vote in the online polls for the Sabbatical, Welfare and Equal Opportunities and General Student constituencies and nominate candidates within those constituencies.

Members are also entitled to vote and

nominate candidates in those Academic constituencies where they are eligible to stand in principle. Voting must be by secret ballot.

Eligibility for election 2.

Only members, as defined in paragraph 2 of the Constitution, may stand for election to the Council.

2.1

No member can stand for more than one position on the Council at the same election.

2.2

No member is eligible for election to a Sabbatical seat which they have already occupied or where they have been a Sabbatical officer or paid elected Union Officer at the University for two years.

2.3

All members are eligible to stand for a post in the Welfare and Equal Opportunities and General Student constituencies. Members should only stand for a post with which they can self-identify.

2.4

No member is eligible for a seat in the Academic Convenors’ constituency unless they are a student in the faculty to which the seat relates.

Dates of elections 3.

Unless the retiring council, with the written agreement of the University Court, directs otherwise, the election of the Sabbatical, Academic and Welfare and Equal Opportunity constituencies will be held in the Second Semester, not later than four weeks after, the end of the spring break. The Sabbatical constituency elections, at the discretion of the Executive, may be held on a separate date from the Academic and Welfare and Equal Opportunity Constituencies provided they are within the aforementioned timescale.

When the elections are held on

separate dates they shall not be deemed the “same election” as per 2.1 above.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

Successful candidates will take up office on the first day of July in that same year. These elections are called the ‘SRC Spring Elections’.

3.1

Elections to all other seats will take place not earlier than three and not later than five weeks after the start of the First Semester. These elections are called The ‘SRC Autumn Elections’.

3.2

Subject to paragraphs 3 and 3.1, the precise date of elections shall be decided by The Executive Committee.

3.3

The procedure for notifying students of elections may be made by Executive Standing Order and will ensure that prominent notification of elections is given at least two weeks before the opening of nominations and until the closing date for nominations.

3.4

Where insufficient candidates are nominated in any constituency or where a vacancy occurs, such vacancies may be filled by a by-election as the Executive Committee may decide.

The procedure to be followed for by-elections may be

made by Executive Standing Order.

Nominations & publicity 4.

The procedure for nominations will be made by Executive Standing Order subject to the following basic requirements.

4.1

Nominations will be made on a prescribed form by candidates who must show their matriculation card to the Returning Officer, or authorised depute.

The

prescribed form must be signed by the candidate and the Returning Officer, or authorised depute, before it can be accepted. The candidate will then be issued with a receipt.

4.2

Nomination forms must be submitted on the days specified by the Executive Committee, which will end no later than seven days before the election. Submission of nominations will remain open for ten consecutive working days from 9.00am on the first day to 4.00pm on the tenth day. The Returning Officer will declare any nominations received after this time invalid.

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4.3

Nominations for the following seats will be signed by the following members who will append their matriculation numbers to the nomination form: •

Sabbatical Officers: thirty members;

•

Academic Convenors and Welfare and Equal Opportunity Officers: fifteen members; and

•

4.4

All other seats: six members.

Each member must be eligible to vote for the seat for which he or she is making a nomination.

The decision of the Returning Officer regarding the validity of a

nomination is final.

4.5

The procedure for election publicity will be made through Executive Standing Order subject to the following basic requirements.

4.6

Candidates may, before close of nominations, submit a manifesto of not more than 300 words in the Sabbatical Constituency and not more than 150 words in other constituencies.

Candidates must also submit two passport size

photographs. It shall be the duty of each candidate to ensure that the submitted manifesto does not contain any offensive or factually inaccurate material and does not exceed the prescribed length. Should this occur the Executive Committee will report the matter to the Returning Officer who may, at his or her discretion, request the candidate to amend the manifesto accordingly or direct that it be displayed subject to the deletion of any infringing material.

4.7

For the spring elections only: where a candidate remains unopposed after the time period for nominations has closed, there will be a ballot offering the options of re-opening of nominations and election of the unopposed candidate. For the avoidance of doubt the terms of this clause shall only apply for the main spring elections and not for subsequent by-elections or autumn elections.

4.8

Candidates, whether opposed or not, shall not be deemed to be elected until the close of the ballot on the day of election

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Canvassing 5

It is illegal to chalk, paint or affix notices on walls or pavements or otherwise display them except on noticeboards provided for student use. Offenders are liable to prosecution and the SRC is in no way responsible for them.

5.1

Candidates are not allowed to be canvassed for or financed by persons other than matriculated students of Glasgow University, who have not opted out of SRC representation for this academic year under Schedule 1.

5.2

Canvassing is not permitted inside the University Library, the Round Reading Room, other University computer clusters, or within Council’s Offices on the day(s) of the election.

5.3

With the exception of bought photocopying services, candidates are not permitted to use SRC property for the furtherance of their campaign.

5.4

The use of loudhailers on Gilmorehill campus is prohibited by order of the University Court.

5.5

Whilst reasonable use of private electronic mail, over and above the official election message sent out by Computing Service on behalf of the SRC is acceptable, any additional use of electronic mail for the furtherance of a candidates campaign must be referred to, and approved by, the Returning Officer, University Postmaster and Permanent Secretary. Any unsolicited mass electronic mail shot/s (i.e. addressed to 500 people or more), sent with the specific intention of canvassing are not permitted.

5.6

No candidate or person campaigning for him or her will deface, cover or remove any opponents’ publicity material from display. Any breach of this rule will lead to disqualification from the election.

5.7

It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that his or her publicity material is removed and disposed of sensibly after the election. Failure to do so may result in disqualification in accordance with paragraph 6.

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Infringement of election rules 6

Any malpractice leading to an infringement of these or other rules governing an election should be reported to the Permanent Secretary, who will immediately inform the Returning Officer who has the power to invalidate the nomination of the offending candidate, or disqualify a successful candidate.

Returning Officer 7

Prior to each election the Executive Committee will appoint a Returning Officer who will be responsible for – •

The proper conduct of elections.

•

The observance of the contents of this Schedule.

•

No person shall be eligible to be appointed Returning Officer if they are – •

A member of Council.

•

An SRC employee.

•

A matriculated student of the University of Glasgow.

•

A close relative of any candidate in a SRC Election.

The University Court must approve the appointment in writing.

7.1

After every election the Returning Officer will submit a written report on that election to the University Court and Council, and will be invited to attend the meeting of Council following that election to answer any questions on his or her report.

7.2

The Returning Officer may be removed or suspended from office on good cause at a General or Extraordinary General Meeting of Council where two-thirds of those present and voting agree, and the prior written approval of the University Court has been obtained through the Permanent Secretary.

Poll 8

All elections will be held by secret ballot which will normally be online and will be decided by the following single transferable voting system: •

Online ballot papers will be marked in order of preference

•

Voters will have the option to spoil their ballot paper by clicking on the appropriate box

•

The number of votes required to secure election shall be:

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Total No. of Votes Cast - (Total No. NTS) +1 Number of Vacancies +1 This figure will be referred to as the quota. NTS = Non-Transferable and spoilt votes. •

If a candidate receives more than the quota all that candidate's votes will be split according to the next available preference.

•

If no candidate in any count fulfils the quota the votes cast for the bottom candidate in the count will be divided according to the next available candidate. If more than one candidate ties for bottom place in the count, the candidate with fewest first preferences will be eliminated.

8.1

The results of the election will be supervised by the Returning Officer, who must publish them as soon as they are known. The data and basis for the election results may be inspected and independently validated by the Secretary of Court.

8.2

In the event of a tie, a by-election will be held for the seat in question.

All

questions relative to the validity of an election must be submitted to the Returning Officer within 48 hours of announcement of the result. Decisions on any such questions shall be made by the Returning Officer, who may consult with the Secretary of the University Court. If any election is declared invalid, a by-election will be held.

Membership of Council 9

The Council is representative of all students of the University and will comprise of the following elected member positions: Four members in the Sabbatical Constituency (subject to paragraph 12): •

President

•

Vice-President (Learning and Development)

•

Vice-President (Media and Communications)

•

Vice President (Student Support)

Eight members in the Academic Constituency: •

Arts Convenor

•

Education Convenor

•

Engineering Convenor

•

Social Sciences, Law & Financial Studies Convenor

•

Medicine Convenor

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council •

Science Convenor

•

Veterinary Medicine Convenor

•

Postgraduate Convenor

Nine members in the Welfare and Equal Opportunities Constituency: •

International Students’ Officer

•

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Students’ Officer

•

Mature Students’ Officer

•

Minority Ethnic Officer

•

Students’ with Disabilities Officer

•

Women’s Interests Officer

•

Charities Officer

•

Clubs & Societies Officer

•

Part-time Students’ Officer

Nine members in the General Student Constituency who will be Council members without portfolio and must comprise of at least two first year students and two postgraduate students.

9.1

The Past President of the SRC will be an ex officio voting member of Council. The Past President is the elected member who held the office of SRC President prior to 1 July in a current election year. In addition the President of the following bodies (or their legal successors) will be ex officio members of Council but may only vote if that body has a reciprocal Council ex officio voting member: •

Crichton University Campus Students’ Representative Council

•

Glasgow University Sports Association

•

Glasgow University Union

•

Queen Margaret Union

•

Glasgow University Postgraduates’ Club

Court Assessor 10

At its first meeting the Council will elect a non-Sabbatical Council member to be the SRC Assessor on the University Court.

President-elect, Vice Presidents elect and Depute President 11

A member elected to a position in the Sabbatical Constituency at the SRC Spring Elections will be known as the President-elect or Vice-President elect, as appropriate, until he or she takes office on the first day of July in that same year.

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The President-elect and Vice-Presidents elect are entitled to attend and speak at meetings of the Council and Executive but not to vote. When members of the Sabbatical Constituency take office they will elect a Vice-President to be known as the Depute President.

The Depute President’s role is to substitute for the

President in the chairing of meetings and signing of contracts and legal documents in his or her absence.

The Depute President may not act as

spokesperson for the SRC without the prior consent of the President.

Sabbatical Constituency 12

The remit and number of Sabbatical Constituency posts may be altered or deleted by Executive Standing Order to come into effect in a following election year: subject to endorsement by a simple majority of Council and the requirement of at least two Sabbatical Constituency posts, of which one will be known as the President. The maximum number of sabbatical posts shall be five.

Membership of the Executive 13

On the first day of July all members of the Executive Committee will vacate office and the members elected to the Sabbatical Constituency at the SRC Spring Elections in that same year will join the Executive Committee and assume

their

paid positions.

13.1

At the first meeting of the Council after 1 July the following members will join the Executive Committee: •

two members from the Academic Constituency elected by the eight members of that constituency on a show of hands; and

•

two members from the Welfare and Equal Opportunities Constituency elected by the nine members of that constituency on a show of hands.

Where there is a tie the Chair of the Council may cast a deciding vote.

13.2

At the first meeting of the Council following the SRC Autumn Elections the following members will join the Executive Committee: •

two members from the General Constituency elected by the members of that constituency on a show of hands; and

•

one non-Executive member of Council elected by the members of Council on a show of hands.

Where there is a tie the Chair of the Council may cast a deciding vote.

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Committees of the Council 14

The Council may by Standing Order create and delegate functions to such committees as it thinks necessary in order to progress its remit as set out in the Constitution.

This provision cannot be used to delegate any functions which are

within the remit of the Executive Committee as described in the Constitution. Sub-committees of the Executive 15

The Executive Committee may by Executive Standing Order create and delegate functions to such sub-committees as it thinks necessary in order to progress its remit as set out in the Constitution, subject to the following: Complaints or matters related to SRC staff must be dealt with by the Staff sub-committee.

The Staff

sub-committee will comprise of the President, no more than two sabbatical members of the Executive Committee and the Permanent Secretary.

It will be

chaired by the President. All matters discussed at the Staff sub-committee must be kept confidential to members of that sub-committee.

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SCHEDULE 3 – Code of conduct  Conduct of members generally 1.

All students must treat other members with courtesy and respect. They must show the same consideration to SRC and University employees or guests. They must act in accordance with the SRC’s Equal Opportunities Policy.

Conduct of Council members 2.

In addition to the requirements of paragraph 1, Council members must also adhere to the following additional standards –

2.1

Act in the interests of students and in doing so uphold the aims of this Constitution and act in accordance with its Schedules and Standing Orders.

2.2

Contribute to and share responsibility for collective decisions, and represent the Council’s policies on appropriate public occasions.

Any Council member

unwilling to so do should resign.

2.3

Prepare for and attend all meetings of committees of which they are a member. Members who miss more than three meetings of Council will be deemed to have resigned unless they have provided good reason to the satisfaction of the Chair.

2.4

Be accessible to the people whom they have been elected to serve and to represent their interests conscientiously. In representing people’s interests, Council members have a duty to respect individual privacy, unless there are overwhelming reasons in the wider public interest for disclosure to be made to a relevant authority.

2.5

Ensure that confidential information acquired as a result of their position is not disclosed to anyone other than those who have a right to that information. Ensure that confidential information is not used for the personal advantage of either he or she or of others known to them.

2.6

Take decisions solely in terms of the interest of students. They must not act in order to gain financial or other material benefit for themselves, their family or friends. Where a financial or material conflict of interest arises during a decision

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or discussion this should be disclosed and the Council member should refrain from participating further on the matter.

2.7

Council members have a duty not to place themselves under any financial or other obligation to any individual or organisation that might reasonably be thought to influence them in the performance of their duties.

2.8

Act honestly and declare any private interests relating to their duties and take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the interest of the SRC.

2.9

Be accountable and open about their decisions and actions to students. To consider issues on their merits, taking account of the views of others.

2.10

Abide by the SRC’s staff-student protocol.

2.11

Ensure their actions do not cause a nuisance or harassment to others. Never use language that is likely to offend the reasonable person, such as racist or sexist terms. Avoid any language or behaviour likely to cause offence to others.

2.12

Foster mutual respect between fellow Council members and SRC staff.

2.13

Not consume or be under the influence of alcohol or any illegal drugs during SRC meetings or whilst representing the SRC whether in an official capacity or otherwise (with the exception of alcohol where it is provided as part of a social event).

Complaint procedure 3.

The procedure for dealing with a Code of conduct complaint consists of four stages.

3.1

Stage 1 - (admissibility) – A complaint should be set out in writing and sent to the Permanent Secretary who will investigate and determine the admissibility of the complaint.

The Permanent Secretary may remit a complaint, in whole or in

part, to the University or appropriate agencies for investigation.

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3.2

Stage 2 - (investigation) - If a complaint is admissible, and has not been remitted to the University by the Permanent Secretary, an investigation into the complaint will be carried out by the President, whom failing the Depute President or such person as may appointed by the Executive (‘the Reporter’) where the President or Depute President are the subject of the complaint, decline to act, or have a conflict of interest. The Reporter will then report his or her findings in fact to the Standards Committee. The Standards Committee will comprise of two members of the Executive and at least three non-Executive members of Council. It will be chaired by the Permanent Secretary. The Reporter must not be a member of the Standards Committee.

3.3

Stage 3 – (decision) – The Permanent Secretary will invite the person complained against to respond to the Reporter’s findings in fact before the Standards Committee reaches its decision. Where a complaint is upheld the Standards Committee may impose sanctions against a member.

3.4

Stage 4 – (appeal) – Where a complainer is dissatisfied with a decision made by the Permanent Secretary or Standards Committee they may appeal to the University Court.

Where a complainee is dissatisfied with a decision of the

Standards Committee they may appeal to the University Court.

The University

Court’s appeal complaints procedure is set out in the Code of Practice.

Notification 4

After receiving a complaint, the Permanent Secretary will notify the member who is the subject of the complaint. Notification will inform the member of the nature and details of the complaint.

In considering whether or not it would be

appropriate to inform the member of the name of the complainer, the Permanent Secretary will have regard to whether or not the complainer is or appears to be a vulnerable person; any reasons given by the complainer as to why the member should not be given the name of the complainer; and, whether giving the name of the complainer would prejudice an investigation into the complaint.

Stage 1 - admissibility 5

The Permanent Secretary will investigate and determine whether or not a complaint is admissible. A complaint is admissible if it appears that the complaint is not trivial and is relevant, which means the complaint is about the conduct of a member and if proved, the conduct complained about would amount to a breach

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of this Code. Complaints relating to an alleged breach of the University’s rules or criminal law will generally be referred to the appropriate authorities.

A decision

of admissibility will be notified in writing to both the complainer and complainee within one month of receipt of the complaint unless the complaint has been remitted to the University in accordance with paragraph 3.1.

Stage 2 - investigation 6

The Reporter will investigate any complaint which has not been dismissed or remitted to the University or other agency at Stage 1 with a view to making findings in fact as to whether or not the conduct complained about was committed, and reaching a conclusion as to whether or not, as a result of the conduct complained about, there has been a breach of the provisions of this Code of conduct.

Interviews 7

If the Reporter interviews any person in the course of an investigation, the Reporter will have regard to whether that person is or appears to be a vulnerable person; allow that person to have a third party present at the interview; allow that person to have his or her views conveyed through an interpreter if that person so requests; and may record the interview.

Stage 2 - report 8

At the conclusion of an investigation into a complaint at Stage 2, the Reporter will make a report to the Standards Committee upon the outcome of the investigation. The report must be submitted no later than two months from notification of the decision on admissibility. The report by the Reporter to the Standards Committee will include•

details of the complaint;

•

details of the investigation carried out by the Reporter;

•

copies of any written statements and recorded evidence;

•

the facts found by the Reporter in relation to whether or not the conduct complained about was committed by the member; and,

•

the Reporter’s conclusion in relation to the complaint.

Before making a report, the Permanent Secretary will give the member concerned a copy of the Reporter’s draft report and will give the member concerned the

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opportunity to make representations about any alleged breach and on the draft report. The representations of the member will be annexed to the report in as far as they are not given effect to in the report.

Stage 3 – consideration by the Standards Committee 9

A copy of any final report to the Standards Committee will be made available to the member concerned by the Standards Committee. The Permanent Secretary will ask the member to confirm in writing whether or not the member agrees with the Reporter’s findings in fact or the conclusion. The Permanent Secretary will also ask the member whether or not the member wishes to appear before the Standards Committee to make representations about the Reporter’s findings in fact or conclusion. The Standards Committee may consider in private any report of the Reporter and any representations by the member concerned in order to ensure the privacy of any further investigation into the complaint.

Following

consideration of the report and any representations by the member, the Standards Committee will decide whether – •

to agree with the Reporter’s findings in fact and conclusion;

•

to refer the complaint back to the Reporter for further investigation or clarification; or

•

to conduct its own investigation into the complaint.

The Standards Committee will determine the procedure to be followed in relation to any investigation which it wishes to carry out itself. If the Standards Committee finds that there has been a breach of the Code of Conduct it will make a decision as to whether or not to impose sanctions against the member. If the Standards Committee decides to recommend the imposition of sanctions it will also decide in public which sanctions to recommend.

Stage 3 – sanctions 10

In the case of a member, the Standards Committee may impose one or more of the following sanctions, a record of which will be sent to the member by the Permanent Secretary: •

A request for a written or verbal apology from the complainee;

•

A verbal or written reprimand; and

•

Suspension or removal from membership.

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In the case of a Council member, the Standards Committee may impose the following additional sanction: •

Suspension or removal from the Council, Executive, other SRC committee, or ex officio position.

In the case of Sabbatical members, the Standards Committee may impose one or more of the following additional sanctions insofar as compliant with employment law: •

Suspension of part or all of financial allowances for a period of time;

•

Suspension or removal from the Sabbatical post.

Withdrawal of complaints 11

A complaint may be withdrawn at anytime by a complainer prior to the Standards Committee imposing sanctions at Stage 3. A request to withdraw must be in writing and given to the Permanent Secretary.

Where a complaint is withdrawn

investigations and further procedure will stop.

The Permanent Secretary will

inform the member concerned of that fact and of any reasons given by the complainer for the withdrawal of the complaint.

Temporary suspension and Stage 4 appeal 12

The Executive may suspend any member from attending any meeting or representing the SRC on a temporary basis whilst a complaint is being determined by it or the University, but only where this is reasonably necessary to safeguard the reputation of the SRC or for the purposes of health and safety. Where the University advises the Standards Committee that a complainee has lodged a Stage 4 appeal any sanction imposed under paragraph 10 (Stage 3) will be suspended pending the outcome of the appeal.

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SCHEDULE 4 – Services & finance  Services 1

Subject to SRC policy and resources, the SRC will provide a range of services for students including: •

Welfare, money and legal advice for students and prospective students

•

Advocacy for students in university appeals, disciplinary hearings and complaints

1.1

•

An overnight listening service staffed by student volunteers

•

A centre for co-ordinating student volunteers and community projects

•

Support for clubs and societies in accordance with Schedule 5

•

Support for student support groups in accordance with Schedule 6

•

Editorially independent student media

•

Notice board space for student notices and advertisements for jobs

•

A mini-bus service between campus and halls of residence

•

A second-hand bookshop, and

•

Fax and photocopying facilities.

Day to day management and administration of SRC services is the responsibility of the Permanent Secretary.

The allocation of SRC resources, including

financial and human resources, is the responsibility of the Executive Committee.

1.2

The Executive Committee may provide such additional services in fulfilment of Council policy.

Finance 2

The Executive is responsible for the finances of the SRC in accordance with, and subject to, paragraphs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Constitution. It may delegate this responsibility to a Finance sub-committee, established in accordance with paragraph 15 of Schedule 2. Where it does so the minutes of any Finance subcommittee will be made available to all members of the Executive Committee. The Permanent Secretary will provide a written financial report to one meeting of the Council each Semester.

2.1

The powers of the Executive Committee in accordance with paragraphs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Constitution may be delegated temporarily to the Permanent

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Secretary where urgent action requires to be taken in the interest of the SRC. Power may only be delegated temporarily where the President or in his/her absence one Vice-President provide permission and any written approval must be reported to the next meeting of the Executive Committee.

2.2

The Executive Committee will appoint solicitors and auditors each financial year. Solicitors must be qualified in Scots law and hold an unrestricted practising certificate. Auditors must be persons qualified for appointment as auditors of a company registered in Scotland.

The auditors will report to Council on their

audit of SRC accounts for the financial year. The auditors will report to Council whether or not all expenditure has been properly authorised and incurred in accordance with the Constitution. The audited accounts will be presented to Council.

A copy of the audited accounts must be sent to the University Court

and be made available for inspection by any student.

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SCHEDULE 5 – Clubs & societies  Affiliation and grants 1.

Decisions regarding affiliations and grant applications for clubs will be made by the Executive. In this schedule the word club includes

societies.

The

Executive may by Executive Standing Order publish a Clubs & Societies Code of Practice, which will include: •

an affiliation form

•

details of the facilities provided by the SRC to affiliated clubs and the rules on using them

1.1

•

the procedure and criteria in allocating grants, and

•

disciplinary and appeals procedures for affiliated clubs.

•

the procedure and criteria in making and allocating special submissions.

Any club on University campus is entitled to apply to the SRC for affiliation. Only affiliated clubs may use SRC facilities and apply for funding.

1.2

Conditions of SRC affiliation are as follows: •

Clubs must abide by the SRC’s Constitution, Schedules, Standing Orders, Clubs’ Code of Practice, and Equal Opportunities Policy.

•

Full membership of the club must be open to students in accordance with the SRC’s Equal Opportunities Policy. Clubs may restrict their membership only insofar as is necessary to facilitate their purpose, function and aim.

•

Associate membership of a club may be open to non-students at the discretion of the club’s governing body.

•

The club must be under the democratic control of its full membership and have a written Constitution to that effect.

The Constitution must limit

associate membership to no more than 20% of the total membership and provide that associate members should account for no more than 10% of the total number of voting members at an annual or extra-ordinary general meeting of the club. •

1.3

A club must have at least two officer bearers who are students.

Money allocated to a club from the SRC must not be used to purchase alcoholic drink, or be used to make donations to any external organisations.

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SCHEDULE 6 – Student support groups  Affiliation and grants 1

Decisions regarding affiliations and grant applications for student support groups (SSG) will be made by an Executive sub-committee to be known as the Student Support Group Committee. The SSG committee may submit a code of practice to the Executive Committee which if approved will be published by Executive Standing Order. The SSG Code of Practice will include: •

an affiliation form

•

details of the facilities provided by the SRC to affiliated student support groups and the rules on using them

1.1

•

the procedure and criteria in allocating grants, and

•

disciplinary and appeals procedures for affiliated student support groups.

Membership of the SSG Committee will comprise of the President, Vice-President (responsible for Equal Opportunities), who will chair, International Students’ Officer, LGBT Students’ Officer, Mature Students’ Officer, Minority Ethnic Students’ Officer, Students with Disabilities Officer, and Womens’ Officer. In the absence of the Vice-President (responsible for Equal Opportunities), the President will chair.

To qualify for affiliation as a SSG a group must meet the

conditions for clubs at set out in paragraph 1.2 of Schedule 5, and the following requirements: •

The group’s aims and objectives must include a commitment to further the interests of a specific group of students at the University of Glasgow.

•

The group must make provision for welfare and social needs of the specific group of potentially vulnerable or excluded students with which it is concerned.

•

The group must inform its members of issues of specific concern to them, and campaign on such issues.

1.2

•

The group must be non-party political.

•

The group must not charge a membership fee.

•

The group must abide by the SRC’s equal opportunity policy.

The SSG must submit its Constitution to the SSG Committee. The Permanent Secretary will keep copies of the Constitutions of all SSGs. The office bearers of the SSG must keep a membership list which does not need to be disclosed to the

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SRC.

The membership list must be kept confidential to the office bearers of the

SSG.

1.3

SSGs will normally be entitled to the maximum grant available to Clubs and Societies. SSGs will be entitled to make a special submission for specific projects to the Executive Committee in the same way as Clubs and Societies.

1.4

Money allocated to a SSG by the SRC may not be used to purchase alcoholic drinks.

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SCHEDULE 7 – Regulation of meetings  Quorum and general rules 1

This Schedule applies to all SRC meetings. The word committee in this Schedule includes the Council, Executive, sub-committee and any other meeting of the SRC. The quorum for any meeting will be one third of the actual membership of that committee. Fractions are rounded down.

Only committee members may

speak at meetings unless the Chair agrees otherwise. Votes are not transferable and only members of a committee who

are present at the time a decision is

put to the meeting may vote.

Chair 2

Council and the Executive Committee will be chaired by the President, or in his or her absence by the Depute President. Where the President declines to be Chair, or the Chair has lost a vote of no confidence, the Executive Committee may elect a new Chair by a simple majority vote on a show of hands at a meeting of the Executive Committee or Council. Only a member of the Executive Committee is eligible to stand for election as Chair.

Motions to Council 3

Motions may be submitted to the Chair through the Permanent Secretary in writing no later than 5pm, two days before an Ordinary meeting of Council. word motions in this Schedule include any amendment to a motion.

The

Motions

under this Schedule require the written support of two Council members or fifteen SRC members.

The Chair may invite the proposer of any motion to speak in

favour of same.

In the case of fifteen or more SRC members one member may

be permitted to speak on behalf of the proposers.

A proposer may withdraw a

motion at anytime. The Chair may invite other members of Council to comment on the proposed motion. The Chair may allow each proposer to make a short closing speech. The Chair may allot such time to speakers as he or she sees decides. Council may approve or reject any motion on a simple majority.

Any

rejected motion may not be submitted again until three months has elapsed. Council may remit any motion to one or more of its committees for further consideration. A committee which receives a remitted motion must provide a report to Council with its recommendations on that motion within three months.

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Conduct of meetings 4.

The purpose of meetings is to conduct the business of that meeting as set out in the meeting’s agenda.

Standing agendas for meetings should be decided in

advance by the meeting. No later than one week before a meeting any member may submit an item to the Chair for his or her consideration as an agenda item. The Chair through the Permanent Secretary will circulate agendas for Council and Executive Committee meetings. The Chair’s decision on the conduct of a meeting is final.

Any person who ignores the Chair’s decision on conduct or

disrupts a meeting may be expelled from that meeting on a simple majority vote. The Chair may adjourn any meeting subject to disruption or abusive language for such period as he or she decides.

The Chair may also submit a complaint under

Schedule 3 where any member disrupts a meeting or uses abusive language at a meeting.

Further procedure for the conduct of meetings may be made by

Standing Order in the case of the Council, or by Executive Standing Order in the case of any other committee.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

SCHEDULE 8 – Council policies  Adoption of Policies 1

All Council policies must have been passed by Council in accordance with such procedure as may be made by Standing Order.

Recording of policies 2

The Council will maintain a Policy Document, in which all its current policies shall be recorded. This document will be made available to all members and to all employees of the SRC upon request.

2.1

The Permanent Secretary will enter all policies, upon adoption by Council, into the Policy Document.

2.2

Any policy adopted by Council, which contradicts an earlier policy, will be deemed to amend the earlier policy.

The Permanent Secretary will ensure that such

amendments are recorded in the Policy Document.

Duration of Policies 3.

Any two members of Council or fifteen SRC members may, in accordance with Standing Orders, make a proposal to revoke or amend any policy contained in the Policy Document.

3.1

All policies will automatically be revoked four years after being adopted or last amended. Notice will be given at Council meetings of those policies which are due to be revoked at the following Council meeting. A motion may be proposed, in accordance with Standing Orders, to retain, with or without amendment, any such policy for a further period of up to four years.

3.2

Any policy revoked in accordance with 3 or 3.1 above will be deleted from the Policy Document.

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SCHEDULE 9 – Complaints procedure  1.

Any student or group of students who feel dissatisfied in their dealings with the SRC, including SRC Publications, may make a complaint.

Any complaint

concerning the conduct of a Council or SRC member must be dealt with in accordance with the Schedule 3 (Code of conduct) complaints procedure.

Any

complaint concerning SRC staff must be dealt with by the Permanent Secretary and where appropriate the Staff sub-committee.

1.1

The student(s) concerned will send their complaint in writing to the President detailing the nature of their complaint and the desired redress.

1.2

The President, whom failing the Depute President, will investigate the complaint and report to the Executive Committee within fourteen days of the complaint being made.

1.3

The Executive Committee will determine what action, if any, will be taken to remedy the matter.

1.4

The President, whom failing the Depute President, will write to the complainer(s) within seven days of considering the complaint and will notify them of the outcome, giving written reasons for the decision.

1.5

Student(s) have the right to appeal to the University Court. This right will be notified to them by the President, whom failing the Depute President, in writing.

1.6

This complaints procedure will be advertised in all SRC publications.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY  Membership, employment and service provision

1.

Employment

The SRC recognises that Scotland is a multi-racial society. It is also a society in which women account for nearly half of the working population and increasingly it is being acknowledged that people with disabilities can make a full contribution to working life. Yet people from these groups and many others frequently suffer discrimination in employment. The SRC therefore does not discriminate against any group of persons on the grounds of age, disability, ethnic or national origin, family circumstances, marital status, political or sexual orientation, race, religion or gender. The omission of other groups should not be interpreted as condoning discrimination against them. The SRC recognises that discrimination can be direct or indirect and can take place at a personal or at an institutional level and can manifest as: •

direct discrimination: treating a person less favourably on grounds of race, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation.

•

indirect discrimination: applying any requirement or condition which, though applied equally to everybody, is such that a considerably smaller proportion of people of one group can comply with it than the proportion of other people, unless the requirement or condition can be shown to be justifiable irrespective of race, sex, disability, age or sexual orientation.

Statement of policy 1.1

The SRC is opposed to discrimination in any form and at all levels and is committed to take all steps within its power as an employer to counteract it.

1.2

The SRC will seek to ensure that no one receives less favourable treatment or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements that cannot be shown to be justifiable.

1.3

The SRC will seek to ensure that all individuals will be treated fairly and equally and any decisions on recruitment and selection will be based on the essential job criteria.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

1.4

The SRC will respect community diversity and will seek to ensure that all vacancies are accessible to all sectors of the community.

1.5

The SRC will provide equal opportunities training for all members of staff and committee members and will encourage active participation.

1.6

The SRC will comply with existing relevant anti-discrimination legislation and codes of practice in employment.

1.7

The SRC will ensure that this policy will be a condition of service and all members of staff and committee members will abide by it.

1.8

The SRC's policies and procedures will be monitored regularly to ensure they comply with this policy.

Legal and statutory obligations

2.

This policy is a condition of service in accordance with the relevant legislation concerning discrimination. •

Disability Discrimination Act 1995

•

Employment Rights Act 1996

•

The Equal Pay Act 1970 as amended by Equal Pay (Amendment) Regulations 1983

•

The Housing (Scotland) Acts 1987, 1988 and 2001

•

The Local Government Act 1988

•

National Health Services & Community Care Act 1990

•

The Race Relations Act 1976 as amended by the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000

3.

•

The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

•

The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (as amended) Responsibility & accountability as an employer

The Permanent Secretary will have daily responsibility for the implementation of the policy. The President will have overall responsibility for the successful implementation of

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the policy. In addition, the SRC will abide by the terms and conditions of this policy to ensure no discrimination occurs in the services it provides. 3.1

Employment

The SRC recognises some employment practices may create barriers which prevent individuals obtaining employment, therefore restricting these individuals from full and equal participation in economic, cultural, social and political spheres of life. The SRC will therefore adopt positive action measures that will help redress any imbalance. Such measures will consist of: •

Good conditions of employment such as flexible working hours, and appropriate leave for religious holidays.

•

Positive statements in advertisements, e.g. disabled people are underrepresented within the SRC.

All disabled applicants who meet the essential

criteria are encouraged to apply. •

Access to training.

•

Access to premises.

•

Access to information in suitable format.

•

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an employer (from 1 October 2004, regardless of the number of employees: The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (Amendment) Regulations 2003) to discriminate against a disabled job applicant or worker in the selection for jobs, terms and conditions of employment, promotion or transfer, training, employment benefits and dismissal or any other detrimental treatment.

3.2

Terms and Conditions of Service

All staff in similar jobs shall be employed under the same terms and conditions of employment. 3.3

Resources

The SRC will, wherever possible, provide all employees with the necessary aids and adaptations to enable everyone to carry out duties on equal terms. Where the SRC cannot honour this commitment financially, it will liaise with appropriate agencies with a view to obtaining the necessary resources. In addition, provision will be made for the additional resources that will be required to ensure effective implementation of this policy.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

3.4

Communication

Good communication is an important part of equal opportunities. For communication to be effective, the SRC will provide, where appropriate, materials in suitable format, e.g. computer disc, tapes, Braille, translated materials in community languages, interpreters and translators. To encourage meaningful communication and participation, the SRC will look at creating different structures for meetings and will be sensitive to: •

Religious and cultural requirements, e.g. women only meetings, early meetings.

•

The needs of those with young children, e.g. provision of transport, crèche, child friendly rooms, appropriate opening and closing hours.

•

The needs of people with disabilities, e.g. provision of transport, access for disabled people.

•

Language differences, e.g. appropriate communication format, assistance with forms and questionnaires, use of interpreters and translators.

3.5

Publicity

The SRC will seek to ensure that: •

Its publications will not perpetuate discrimination.

•

Language used will be non-discriminatory and concise.

•

All relevant materials will be accessible to its target population.

3.6

Staff development

The SRC is aware that staff development takes into account numerous factors such as education and training. This section will concentrate on training. The SRC will provide training for staff at all levels as it is an important factor leading to opportunities and career development and in return work will be carried out more efficiently and benefit the SRC.

Training will reflect a structured and constructive approach and will be carried out in order to promote good practice. Furthermore, training sessions will place no unjustified conditions upon individuals that may prevent them from playing a full part.

Where

attendance at training events might cause problems as a result of difference in sex,

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religion, diet, venue or child care arrangements, different provisions will be considered and provided.

3.7

Equal Opportunities training

All members of staff and Council members will undertake equal opportunities training. The training will concentrate on identifying discrimination and taking action that counters its effects.

3.8

Support

All members of staff, but particularly those from disabled groups, black/minority-ethnic groups, may need access to support structures within or outwith the SRC. Time and resources, as appropriate, will be made available to attend such support groups. In addition, supervision sessions with line managers will be used to provide positive support on personal and career development.

The SRC will provide appropriate contact people with whom employees can discuss suspected harassment or discrimination. The SRC will seek to ensure that the needs of all groups are recognised and dealt with reasonably and sympathetically. 3.9

Harassment

Harassment is considered to be unwanted behaviour, e.g. jokes, language, abuse (physical and verbal), graffiti, exclusion, withdrawal, discomfort, offence, hostility or an intimidating working environment, which may hinder the employee in his/her work performance and affect his/her dignity. Individuals or groups can perpetrate harassment. The SRC can also perpetrate it when, knowingly, it fails to take action to stop the harassment. When the SRC is aware that harassment is taking place, the SRC will carry out a formal investigation to establish the facts and take all appropriate action.

Sexual and racial harassment can constitute unlawful discrimination.

The Equal

Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality recommend that harassment be regarded as a disciplinary offence, which can lead to dismissal. Harassment often occurs as a part of racial or sexual discrimination, but not exclusively. It can also be directed against, e.g. lesbians and gay men, people with HIV and disabled people. Harassment will be dealt with sensitively, speedily and firmly and may require to be resolved through a disciplinary procedure.

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Constitution of the University of Glasgow Student’s Representative Council

3.10

Disciplinary procedures

Breach of Equal Opportunities Policy will be considered a serious disciplinary offence. The SRC will seek to ensure the well being of all members of staff. For this reason, it is important that disciplinary procedures exist to ensure that disciplinary rules are clear and that employees are given clear and consistent opportunities to overcome any problems. Disciplinary procedures are designed to support standards of conduct and capability at work and should act as effective safeguards for all employees. Disciplinary action should only be used once the matter is fully investigated and when all other means of resolving the issue have failed. 3.11

Grievance procedure

All members of staff have the right to take action under a grievance procedure. Where any grievance or cause for complaint arises, employees will have an opportunity to raise such matters through a structure process that is clear and fair. The SRC will seek to ensure that such problems are dealt with quickly and efficiently. Where possible, the employee will be given the necessary support and guidance for the proper resolution of the grievance.

3.12

Monitoring, reviewing and record keeping

The SRC will seek to set targets (for measuring performance) and introduce a monitoring system, which will collect relevant data on everyone who approaches the SRC for employment or services.

The data will be assessed on a regular basis to monitor

progress.

The SRC acknowledges that monitoring, reviewing and record keeping will be an ongoing process requiring continual examination and review of existing procedures and criteria as the society in which we live evolves.

3.13

Initiatives

The SRC will undertake to review its policies and practices to take into account changes as the society in which we live evolves.

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3.14

Confidentiality

Confidential information will be respected and maintained as such.

3.15

Responsibilities of employees and Council members

The success of any policy depends on the degree of commitment of all employees and Council members; consequently it is the responsibility of all employees and Council members to ensure this policy is applied in practice. All staff and Council members will be expected to challenge discriminatory behaviour and draw the attention of management to any instances of discrimination. 4.

Access to services

The SRC will take positive action measures to ensure that all members of the community are aware of the services it provides. The SRC will seek to ensure within its means that a wide range and diversity of people benefit from its services.

The SRC will have

maximum openness about the nature of its work

The SRC will avoid being seen as inaccessible and take any necessary action as reasonably practical to meet individual requirements.

The SRC will ensure that no

communication barriers are put in place or maintained.

5.

Conclusion

The SRC is striving to ensure that equal opportunities permeate all areas of its activity. The SRC recognises that passive policies will not, in themselves, provide equal outcomes. The SRC will endeavour to meet the needs of all its existing and potential stakeholders.

The SRC will do all in its power to ensure that the principles of equal

opportunities apply in all of its policies and employment practices.

The SRC also

recognises its broader responsibility to promote equal opportunities in every aspect of its work and will therefore seek to promote equal opportunities and challenge discriminatory practice at every opportunity.

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