City Universities join forces to find the best student neighbours

Newcastle and Northumbria Universities are asking residents to nominate students who go the extra mile for their community.

The Best Neighbour On Campus award, established last year by Newcastle University and its Students’ Union, celebrates the great work students do within their communities, either through volunteering, supporting local residents or being considerate, responsible neighbours.

A successful first year saw 17 students recognised, receiving up to £1,000 to help towards their rent and living costs in recognition of being good neighbours.

In further recognition of the good work done by students for the whole of Newcastle, this year sees Northumbria University and their Students’ Union join as partners in the campaign.

Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said: “Improving student-resident relationships can only be a good thing for our students and the permanent residents they live alongside. The different lifestyles of students means that this will always be a challenge, but we are committed to doing as much as we can and working with residents in order to create harmonious relationships.

“We are delighted to be working with Northumbria University on the BNOC campaign. This shows our joint commitment to rewarding the hugely positive contribution students from both universities make to our city.”

Professor Andrew Wathey CBE, Vice-Chancellor of Northumbria University, added: “Students are a real asset to our local communities and help make Newcastle the diverse, culturally rich city that it is today.”

“We already know that our students contribute to business and the community, whether through internships or placements, in cultural organisations, at local NHS trusts or by offering free consultancy through Northumbria’s Business Clinic or Student Law Office.

“This joint campaign with Newcastle University will help to highlight the positive work done by students in our local communities.  I look forward to seeing nominations from across the city.”

Each month from March, the aim is to find Newcastle’s Best Neighbour On Campus. 

Leaflets are being distributed to residents living in student areas across the city giving information on how to nominate, and a panel of judges will decide which of the entries they feel has had the most positive impact on the community.

The judging panel includes local residents, local councillors and representatives from the Universities.

More information and details of how to nominate and the terms and conditions of the competition can be found on the awards website bit.ly/bnocvote