REF:66-2012-8651202 - Prize vouchers

Your comment: I wanted to say that me and other students do not like that every prize draw or similar things always give out Amazon vouchers. Instead, we think it would be better if you gave out vouchers for local restaurants or takeout (especially good during the pandemic to support the local businesses), or maybe to some more ethical businesses. Thank you.

Our response:

Thank you for your comment regarding the engagement prizes. The University recognises your ethical concerns regarding the use of Amazon for the prize vouchers, and it is something to which we have given thought in the past. However, while would love to offer AberCard payments or local business vouchers as prizes, we are concerned that since these prizes will be won by final year students who are on the verge of leaving Aberystwyth (or indeed, as in this particular year, living and learning away from Aberystwyth), and who will find it difficult to use effectively. Nonetheless, we will make sure that we consider a mix of prizes, taking into consideration that not everyone will be in the area and we will also be looking into sourcing ethical companies. I hope this goes some way to meeting your concerns.