College’s Student Association recognised for tackling student poverty
West Lothian College’s student association has been recognised at this year’s NUS (National Union of Students) Scotland Award’s ceremony.
The annual celebration highlights the work of college and university student associations, elected officers and staff across Scotland.
Held on Wednesday 27 March at the Stirling Court Hotel in the University of Stirling, the NUS Scotland Awards ceremony showcased the excellent work of college and university student associations across the country, as well as a spotlighting their achievements over the last year.
West Lothian College’s student association won the Club/Society of the Year award for their commitment to providing much-needed help to students experiencing poverty.
After witnessing an increase in food poverty, the student association spoke with students to understand their individual circumstances so that they could help support immediate needs through working with local charities.
Micole Cochrane, Student Association Development Officer, herself a finalist for the Students' Association Staff Member of the Year award, said: “We are delighted to be recognised for the work we do to help our students. We are extremely proud of the partnerships we have created, the support we offer and the impact we have made. This support enables students to remain on their course without the need to worry about food insecurities and the cost of living crisis."
Principal of West Lothian College, Jackie Galbraith, added: “It’s terrible that so many students continue to live in poverty and I am so proud of how hard student association works with college staff and local organisations to help students impacted by poverty. They make a real difference. I know of many students who were only able to complete their courses with help from the student association, the college and our partners.”