Have you heard of Better Forums?
Better Forums are how you make change at Leeds University Union.
You submit your idea and pitch it. Students vote. If it passes— we make it happen.
And yes, we’re held accountable for delivering real change!
This academic year's Better Forums at a glance:
- 4 forums hosted.
- 14 idea holders
- 15 ideas presented
- 13 successful ideas passed into policy
- 64 total student panelists
- 205 “yes” votes | 21 “no” votes
- 19 student reps involved in feedback process
Here’s the highlights of the ideas that’s passed this year. We have focused on supporting our vibrant multi-faith student communities, amplifying student voices, and stepping up our efforts on anti-racism.
Should the university improve the visibility, accessibility, and maintenance of multi-faith prayer spaces to better support students of all faith backgrounds?
Passed: 17 March 2025
12 Yes | 1 No
Should LUU support local and national anti-racist mobilisation?
Passed: 20 March 2025
15 Yes | 1 No
Should LUU do more to amplify the student voice through changes to its democratic engagement model?
Passed: 25 May 2025
18 yes | 2 no
Meanwhile, our Student Officers have been busy pushing forward the ideas passed in previous years. Here are some updates:
Should the union actively support alternatives to the current higher education funding system?
Passed: November 2024
Progress Update – from Lucy Hart (Union Affairs & Communications Officer):
With support from LUU, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Students has launched a Commission on Higher Education Funding. The aim is to influence the Government’s Higher Education Review and contribute to the national conversation on student maintenance and affordability.
Should the University of Leeds formally recognise extra and co-curricular activities?
Passed: May 2024
Progress Update – from Lydia Shale (Activities & Opportunities Officer):
In collaboration with Kenny McDowell (Dean for Student Education), Lydia has worked to develop an elective module allowing student leaders to gain academic credit for their extra- and co-curricular involvement. This has been implemented during the 2024/25 academic year.
Should LUU increase the number of student panellists that vote on Better Forums policy ideas in line with the increase in student numbers?
Passed: May 2024
Progress Update – from Lucy Hart (Union Affairs & Communications Officer):
In February 2025, a paper was submitted to the Board of Trustees and approved, increasing the number of student panellists from 15 to 20. This change aims to create a broader and more diverse student representative body for Better Forums. This was implemented at the May 2025 Forums.
Got an idea that could improve the Union, the University, or Leeds?
We want to hear it!
The Passing of Melz Owusu
