Our elections are an opportunity for growth, leadership, and meaningful change. Whether you’re standing as a candidate, supporting a campaign, or casting your vote, you are part of shaping a student community where everyone can thrive.

As we head into the 2026 Student Leadership Elections, we’re committed to creating a campaign environment that is empowering, fair, and positive for everyone involved.

🌟 Setting the tone: Positive campaigning

We want every candidate and voter to have the best possible experience throughout the election process. That starts with the culture we build together.

We ask all candidates to champion the following principles:

Dignity and respect
Treat fellow candidates, students, staff, and the wider community with kindness and respect at all times.

Do not take advantage
Fairness matters. Campaign in a way that reflects integrity—don’t seek or use unfair advantages.

Focus on you
Your campaign is your story. Stay grounded in your ideas, your values, and your goals, and avoid comparing yourself to others.

Support one another
Elections are competitive—but they can still be collaborative. A friendly word, checking in on others, or offering encouragement can make a real difference to someone’s wellbeing. We’re building a culture where candidates uplift each other as well as represent students.

These principles guide not only candidates, but also how we make decisions as a Students’ Association—ensuring fairness and consistency throughout the election.

✅ Candidate responsibilities: Campaigning with integrity

To help keep our elections fair, transparent, and inclusive, candidates are expected to follow these key guidelines:

Campaign budgets
Stick to the allocated budget and submit your expenses within 24 hours of voting closing. Your campaign budget is £66 (UK) or €76 (Germany).

Campaign teams
Campaigning is an individual journey. Candidates must not form joint campaigns, share budgets, or combine teams or materials.

Endorsements
Endorsements should come from students only. Support from staff or external organisations is not permitted.

Campaign supporters
You are responsible for your supporters. Make sure anyone campaigning on your behalf understands and follows the rules.

Follow policies and guidance
All Students’ Association and University policies apply. Please follow all guidance related to campaigning activities.

No negative campaigning
Celebrate your ideas—don’t criticise others. Healthy debate is encouraged, but personal attacks or comments about another candidate’s character are not acceptable.

Independent voting
Voting should always be free, fair, and confidential. Never attempt to influence someone while they are casting their vote.

Campaign materials
You may only alter or remove your own materials during the campaign period.

Be reasonable and fair
Campaign in a way that others could reasonably replicate—keeping things accessible and fair for everyone.

🤝 We’re here to support you

We’ll be providing clear guidance and resources throughout the elections to help you feel confident and prepared in your campaign.

Remember: this is your opportunity to grow, to lead, and to make a difference. By working together to create a positive campaign culture, we ensure that our elections reflect the very best of our student community.

Let’s make Election 2026 a space where everyone feels respected, supported, and inspired to lead.