VP Democracy and Creative Industries Candidate Interview: Chris Hartland

What made you want to run for this position?

In my roles in Creative Industries and as just student, it’s clear that there’s changes needed in both parts of the DCI job. I’ve got a very clear picture of what needs doing and the areas, particularly in CI, that haven’t had much attention for the last few years

What’s your favorite point in your manifesto?

I want to make SUSU much more direct about getting information to people about what they do. So if you’re a member of a society, you’ll get the minutes for the Zone you’re in sent directly to you as an email, and you’ll also be sign up to get minutes from other zones; and all students will get the minutes of things like the Union Senate. At the moment you’ve got to go through a million drop-downs on the SUSU website to get to stuff like this and it really puts people off getting involved; that needs changing!

What do you say to people who say Sabb’s do nothing?

Sabb's do an awful lot more than I think anyone realises; If you elect me then you’ll find out more about what they do do!

What’s your favourite Southampton club night and why?

The Edge – nice chilled vibe and lots of nice people. Everyone’s always friendly in the Edge!

Why should people vote for you?

I’ve got lots of experience and I’m extremely passionate about the role; but I’m also very aware of the general perception of SUSU and why people tend to think it’s a bit useless, or doesn’t represent their interests. I want to make SUSU really work for everyone but I’m not afraid to make big changes and shake things up to get that done.

What do you think is currently the weakest area of SUSU?

Engaging with students is definitely still an issue. SUSU does some really great work but it also isn’t always very good at gauging what we, as students, actually want and need from it. There’s sometimes a feeling that SUSU is a bit cliquey, as well, and that does put people off. I want to see a Union that’s open and accessible for everyone.

What’s your favourite thing about Southampton uni or the city in general?

Southampton’s got a lot of green spaces and I’m quite an outdoorsy guy; I really love being able to get out of the feel of the city whilst not actually going very far.

If there’s one thing you would want to be remembered for in the elections, what would it be?

My passion and commitment to making some real and effective change in the role.