NUS Referendum Results

On March 24th, 2026, Goldsmiths’ Students Union conducted a referendum to determine the student body’s vote on disaffiliation from NUS. The Referendum was called by the trustee board following a student-submitted motion and in accordance with our governing documents.

Key Dates

• Friday March 13th, 11am-12pm - Online Referendum debate
• Monday March 16th, 4pm  - Question and both side arguments published
• Tuesday March 24th, 9am - Voting opens
• Friday March 27th 5pm - Voting closes

Voting Details

Voting Method: Online through the Student Union's secure voting platform

Eligible voters were all currently enrolled students. Voting was anonymous to ensure privacy and encourage honest opinions. In accordance with GSU Constitution, a quorum of 5% of Members was required to validate the referendum and vote in favour of the motion for the motion to be approved.

Referendum motion

"Goldsmiths Students’ Union disaffiliation from the National Union of Students"

Results

The voting turnout was as follows:

• Total Votes Cast: 78
• Voter Turnout Percentage: 1.1%

Voting Breakdown:

• Yes: 58 votes (75.32%)
• No: 18 votes (23.38%)
• Abstain: 1 (1.30%)

Votes could only be casted by current students through our website, which required students to log in in order to vote. Votes were validated by our Returning Officer.

The results of the referendum indicate that although a majority of votes were in favour, the referendum did not pass, as the total number of votes did not meet the required quorum.

Conclusion

Based on the referendum results, the motion on NUS disaffiliation has not passed. Although a majority of votes were in favour, the referendum did not pass, as the total number of votes did not meet the required quorum.

We would like to thank all students who participated in the referendum.