Local Help

Students play a vital role in the vibrancy of the city of Cardiff. There are many positive benefits of the student population, but no one denies there are negative associations too. This section looks at the role that students play in the community, advice of who to contact if you have a problem and tips on how to make good relations.

Many people are unaware that Cardiff has one of the largest volunteering organisations in the country. Click on the Unity news link above to find out how students are making a positive impact in the community.

Students in the community – they need your guidance….

Each year students arrive in the city, often this is the first time they have lived away from home. Make them feel welcome and safe as good community relations can make a positive difference to living in the area.

The housing pack and poster found at http://www.cardiffdigs.co.uk/living.htm is a resource for your student neighbours containing useful information and practical tips about living in rented accommodation.

The PDF contains sections on:  

Things to do as soon as you move in including community relations, Ground rules and tips for shared living, Rubbish and Bin Days, Maintenance, Home Safety, Living in the property, Useful contacts among other sections.  

The poster ‘You’re in. Now what?’ has been produced to support Cardiff Living.

You can help your new neighbours settle in by making them aware of these resources.

Display this advice poster for everyone to see in your window or business.

Introduce yourself to the new student neighbours.

Help them get to know the area and when their bin days are. Students are often unaware of when collection days are so a helpful reminder will set them on their way.

Reason with them if they are causing you a grievance. Explain the situation and why it’s an issue to you as they may not realise the impact they have.

Try and speak to students in the daytime. Rather than late at night when alcohol has been flowing as this might exasperate the situation.

Agree a reasonable finishing time or time when any loud music or loud noise will stop when a party is planned.

If their garden is becoming a mess offer your garden tools as many students might have the inclination for green fingers but not the tools.

Students work to an academic calendar so may be around when you are not. They could help look after your property when you are away. So make yourself and your family known.

Come along to PACT meetings http://www.cardiffdigs.co.uk/pact.htm – often held at the union to help everyone understand your concerns.

If you are still having problems then the contact information page is there to direct you to the right person to turn to. http://www.cardiffdigs.co.uk/contactcomms.htm