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Established with a mission to go beyond raising awareness, Liberate LUU is a hub of resources – including books, films and podcasts – for and about the following liberation groups: Black, LGBTQ+, Trans, Women, Disabled, Working Class, and Asian.

We also host a programme of educational Liberate LUU events, and you should definitely take a look at the Liberation Library to access texts by authors from marginalised groups, outside traditional reading lists.

If you are passionate about providing a voice for marginalised groups on campus, you can join the Liberation and International Student Network (LISN) to lead on liberation issues within the Union, the University and the city of Leeds. This panel of students is here to listen to your concerns, opinions and ideas on how to improve LUU for you.

“I’m really proud of the friendships I made at LISN. I’ve met truly amazing, kind, and caring individuals. I’m also proud of all my personal growth that happened as a result of LISN. I have become a better communicator and a more confident person in general. LISN has broadened my perspective of the world and greatly increased my social awareness. I’m really grateful I got to be part of LISN – it has truly been one of my favourite experiences at Leeds.” – Merna from LISN

Wanna make a real change in LUU, in University, or in the city of Leeds?

Every student is able to present their idea to a student panel to be voted on. There are three forums – Better Union, Better University, and Better Leeds, and they take place in November, March and May. Even if you don’t have an idea, you can attend the Better Forums to see student pitches and the panel’s votes in person.

Fancy leading a Students’ Union? We have four main election periods every academic year, so there is always an opportunity to get involved in democracy at the Union. Anyone is able to vote and to stand, and you don’t have to be a campaigning expert to get involved. Just bring your passion, ideas, and a drive, and we will provide further support, guidance and training.

Lead LUU is the annual Student Exec leadership race – the biggest opportunity to become a leader at LUU, and a major event in the Leeds campus calendar. Every student is able to nominate themselves and to lead their campaign with a goal to encourage other students to support and vote for them. The winning candidates become the Student Exec for the upcoming academic year. It is a paid full-time role, which can be taken as a sabbatical or as a placement year during their studies or after they have graduated. The Exec lead the Union for a year, by representing the voice of the whole student body in high-level decision making at the Union and University. Even if becoming a leader doesn’t suit you, you should still take part in the elections by voting for the next student leader who represents your needs.

If your heart is set on improving the student experience in your course or school – consider becoming an academic rep.

Course reps represent the students on their course/programme of study, school reps speak on behalf of students at school, faculty and university level, and PGR Reps raise ideas, issues, and concerns regarding postgraduate researchers. We support every rep with training and guidance, and every rep plays a role in changing the educational experience for their peers.

Sustainability is embedded in our strategy at LUU, and we offer initiatives, resources and opportunities for our students to stay informed and take action to leave a positive impact on our planet.

You might be interested in getting involved with Climate Week, joining our litter-picking volunteers, or checking out our student-led Green Action Food Co-Op where you can pick up ethical, low-waste good essentials.

“Green Action Society is for real social and environmental action close to home and then outwards. As a co-operative, we value community and egalitarian decision-making. We enable each other in taking control back over our life practices – consuming, working, and living consciously. Our mission is to create a sustainable future together.” – Rufus, Green Action Society

Throughout the year, we send out surveys to gather your feedback on our campaigns and services. Take the opportunity to share your thoughts, so we can continue improving LUU for you!

You might also want to consider joining their focus groups to share further insights.

If you’re looking for a more personal change, such as improving your CV and picking up useful skills for your future career, visit our job shop, Joblink. It is the go-to stop to find the perfect student job to work alongside your studies. If you want to stay close, there are always vacancies to work in the shops, cafes, offices and events at LUU.