University students reach out to the Brighton community

The student community ambassadors spoke to 7,000 Brighton residents last year in a bid to improve relations between students and residents, and are planning activities to being communities together.

A group of 12 students started to visit residents in Coldean, Hollingdean, London Road and Lewes Road yesterday (April 9), listening to the experiences and suggestions of residents in these areas as well as sharing information about the services provided by the university, community projects and upcoming local events.

Councillor Emma Daniel, chair of the neighbourhoods, inclusion, communities and equalities committee at Brighton and Hove City Council, said: "I am really pleased that the University of Sussex is continuing with the scheme.

“It is great to see students going out into the local community to meet with their neighbours and listen to their suggestions. The scheme was a great success last year and I look forward to hearing more positive feedback about this year’s student community ambassadors.”

One of last year’s ambassadors is taking part again after having seen first-hand the positive impact that the community ambassadors can have on their local area.

Calum Upton, a third year genetics student, said: "I decided to return as you meet some really cool people and hear some really interesting stories."

As well as talking with local residents and their families, the ambassadors will give advice to student residents to help them settle into their neighbourhoods. They will particularly encourage students to find ways to make a positive contribution to their local communities.

Rebecca Nash, housing services manager (communities and development) at the university, said: “The scheme was a great success last year and we’ve had some really positive feedback from local residents.

“We want to continue to strengthen our connection to the local community and the community ambassadors have an important role in this.”

The community ambassadors scheme will run until the end of June.

To find out more, click here.