Victoria Singleton

My name is Victoria Singleton, though I prefer Vic, and I’m currently in my final year studying English. I am autistic, and I have suffered with poor mental health since GCSEs, so welfare and community at the university is something I care deeply about. I have personally experienced the extension and special considerations processes, engaged with the disability service and wellbeing teams, and in 2022 made the difficult decision to suspend and retake the third year of my studies. As a result, I am very passionate about making sure no one feels isolated or left behind.

Throughout my years at university, I have faced personal struggles with mental health and disability, and especially with accessing the support available to me. If elected, I will make sure that students are aware of the support available to them at the beginning of the year, and throughout. I would gather resources, from the university, the wider community and elsewhere, so that every student has a straightforward directory of information that is not only available to those who look for it, but actively sent and recommended to students by lecturers and tutors. I know how difficult it can feel to reach out for help from the university. I am interested in providing safe spaces to go for dedicated support, drop-in sessions with university and community-based providers and a remote service to contact for those uncomfortable reaching out in person.

I also believe that it’s very important for the SU to represent all students. Because of this, I would create a branch of communication with societies, for example those representing BAME students, the LGBTQ+ Society and the Feminist Society. It is crucial for students to feel comfortable relating concerns, issues, and worries, and to be approached by the SU for criticism and recommendations. Southampton University is so culturally diverse, I think there should be more engagement with events and opportunities for education and appreciation.