News article
Community ambassadors scheme returns after reaching 7,000 residents last year
By: Daniel Chard
Last updated: Thursday, 5 April 2018
Student community ambassadors from the University of Sussex will soon be visiting Brighton residents as part of a scheme to promote positive relationships in the community.
From Monday 9 April, a group of 12 students will visit households in Coldean and Hollingdean, as well as areas around London Road and Lewes Road. They will listen 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.
After making contact with more than 7,000 local residents last year, the ambassadors will now focus on arranging activities in response to suggestions made by residents. With the support of the University, the students will organise events that help to bring communities together.
“I am really pleased that the University of Sussex is continuing with the scheme” says Councillor Emma Daniel, Chair of the Neighbourhoods, Inclusion, Communities and Equalities committee at Brighton and Hove City Council.
“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:
“I decided to return as you meet some really cool people and hear some really interesting stories,” explains Calum Upton, a third year genetics student.
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.
“The scheme was a great success last year and we’ve had some really positive feedback from local residents,” said Rebecca Nash, Housing Services Manager (Communities and Development) at the University. “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. You can read more about the students taking part on the University’s website.