Lindsay Turner

As Welfare Officer I ensure the well-being of the members of the M.C.R. This position requires meeting with M.C.R. members to confidentially discuss and help with any issues (personal, academic, etc.) that they may have, and ensuring that the welfare needs of all members are met. In addition I am involved in the promotion of University and College welfare campaigns.

Email: lindsay.turner@durham.ac.uk

Manifesto

Having spent three years as a member of Castle JCR, I firmly believe that Welfare is the greatest strength of Durham's collegiate system. Having just joined the MCR to study an MA in Culture & Difference I have already grown to appreciate the unique nature of the MCR community and would love to support students in the MCR and maintain the supportive and compassionate atmosphere which encouraged me to remain a member of University College.

Why Vote for Me?

• I have received extensive training in welfare/student support including:
  • Durham University Counselling Service.
  • Durham University Nightline.
  • SAFE (suicide awareness and prevention).
  • Red Cross First Aid training.
• I have experience in a welfare capacity:
  • Working as a mentor during my time at sixth form, with students who had often come from particularly troubled backgrounds and had a range of behavioural problems.
  • Working in a pastoral role at the Durham University English Language Centre with students who have just arrived in the UK – so am experienced in supporting international students' welfare – which is particularly important due to the cultural diversity of Castle MCR members.
• As a new member of the MCR, I have no preconceptions about other MCR members, will be entirely non- judgemental and confidential, and will hopefully be seen as neutral person to talk to.
• Yet as a continuing Castle student, I have extensive knowledge of the support systems in place elsewhere both at College and University level, and can advise MCR students of different sources of advice and support. As a recent JCR member, I am also in a good position to work together with the JCR Welfare Officer to integrate the MCR into college welfare campaigns (such as the ever-popular unlimited free ice cream in Easter term...)

If Elected, I Would...

• be available via skype, email, mobile phone or in person seven days a week to offer specific support or just a listening ear to any member of the MCR.
• keep the MCR fully stocked with welfare supplies; update the welfare section of the MCR website & use the MCR noticeboard to raise awareness of University welfare campaigns; send regular emails to members highlighting support which is available.
• collaborate with the JCR Welfare Officer in raising the profile of Welfare issues in college and dispel the myth that welfare is just for those with 'serious' problems or a history of mental health issues.
• propose to establish an MCR 'college parent' system similar to that at JCR level – giving new MCR members a direct point of contact with a student studying in their department who can offer tailored advice and help to welcome new members into the MCR.
• organise weekly welfare walks along the riverbanks with my puppy Benji.
• the perfect opportunity to take a break from the stress of postgraduate study. Benji will endeavour to maintain good relations with Otto the college dog to ensure pet therapy is available at both MCR and college level.

Thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto. If anyone has any questions I'd love to answer them!