The Student Community Partnership, which comprises of the Council, Bath Spa University, University of Bath, and their Student Unions, is starting its Good Neighbour campaign for the new academic year.
The SCP gives practical advice on making the right impression with neighbours, such as introducing themselves to neighbours, considering noise levels, hints and tips about waste collections, safety information, how to get involved in the local community by volunteering.
To raise awareness of these issues, the Partnership will be knocking on doors in student locations around Bath to speak with new student residents to welcome them to the local community, promote the messages of how to be a Good Neighbour and encourage them to meet their new neighbours.
The SCP has also produced a Moving In Checklist for all students moving into privately rented accommodation to assist with the transition of moving from halls.
The campaign aims to promote good communication between neighbours which is key to preventing tensions and misunderstandings arising.
Councillor Will Sandry, Chair of the Student Community Partnership, said: “The checklist is a useful guide for both new and existing students wanting to play a positive part in their communities after moving into independent or shared accommodation. Practical advice on issues like noise and waste collections is invaluable as these matters can avoid tension between students and permanent residents in some areas.
“Bath & North East Somerset Council is delighted to continue our support for promoting good communication between neighbours which is key to preventing tensions and misunderstandings arising.”
Sally Williamson, University of Bath Student Union Community Officer, said: “This campaign supports students who may have never lived in private accommodation to become good neighbours. We believe that through mutual cooperation and understanding, students, families and other long term residents can belong to vibrant and supportive communities.”
Emma Weskin, Bath Spa University Student Union, said: “Moving in can be a daunting time for students as there is a lot of information to take in. These initiatives are designed to provide students with all the information and support they need but also to develop a positive relationship between students and the wider community in Bath. I’m really looking forward to going out with the team, giving out important information and meeting the local residents.”
The SCP will be making it even easier for residents to introduce themselves by giving out Good Neighbour postcards, designed by local children, as a way of new neighbours introducing themselves and giving their contact details to their neighbours.
Along with B&NES Waste Awareness Officers, Jenny Dean, the Community Liaison Co-ordinator for the SCP, has also been holding an information stand at the Co-op in Oldfield Park for students to visit to find out about their local area including information on B&NES waste and recycling services. The SCP will also be at both Universities Freshers Fairs.
Council Connect is the contact for residents and students so that they can offer any praise or report any issues or complaints to be reported, logged, and investigated www.bathnes.gov.uk/reportit or [email protected] or Text SMS 07797 806545 or call 01225 39 40 41
To find out more about the Student Community Partnership or view the Being a Good Neighbour booklet go to www.townandgown.org.uk Follow the SCP on Twitter @townandgownbath Email:[email protected]
