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The Union announces that drastic cuts may have to be made next year.

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Just days after UEA was named first in a Times Higher Education survey for best student experience, it has been announced that the Union is facing a series of cuts unless its financial situation drastically improves.

The uni failed to mention the cuts in this flashy Guardian advert.

A blog post on the union’s website this morning confirmed that the university has refused to give the extra funding of £320,000 that the Union has asked for, instead chosing to donate the block grant by a measly £12,000. This move could  result in extreme cutbacks for students.

No more cheap Jaegerbombs?

Already facing the prospect of increased alcohol pricing due to lack of sales in the union bars, the cutbacks could extend to increasing the cost of Sports Association Membership from £40 a year to up to £100. It could also mean slashing the societies budget, which would mean an end to the print edition of Concrete, the Union’s official newspaper.

The end for Concrete?

Prices could also be raised across all Union outlets on campus, including the Hive and the UFO and the bars.

Students who work at these outlets may face a cut in their wages, which will come as a blow to campaigners across campus who have been trying to push the Union to provide a Living Wage for its staff.

Union Communications Officer Matt Myles told The Tab: “Officers are having on-going discussions with UEA to ensure that the Union continues to be a dynamic organisation that meets the needs of students so we continue to vote the UEA student experience number one.”

This perplexing decision by the university raises questions as to its interests regarding the experience of students at UEA. Our student union is instrumental to providing a well-rounded education.

It ensures all students are represented and are given access to the first class opportunities which enabled this university to compete for the best student experience in the first place.

The decision announced today seems to be a step in the wrong direction when considering the excellent work our union does on its already tight budget.

The Tab will keep the students of UEA updated with the progress of this important issue.