University can be challenging at the best of times. It can sometimes feel like an overload of information and reaching out to meet new people can be intimidating.
Many of you may be finding settling into University even more daunting in the current climate. Knowing where you can meet new people, how you can get advice from returning students who've done it all before and how you are able to interact has become more challenging as we keep our distance to protect each other and our community. But the most important thing to remember is that you are not alone.
If you’re looking for someone to meet for a coffee, to try a new sporting or cultural activity with or just to have a chat with (in person or virtually), then sign up as a participant in the UPSU Buddy Scheme.
The Buddy Scheme is designed to be very informal – it’s just a chance to meet someone new, boost your wellbeing and combat loneliness through the support offered by a student just like you.
If you have any questions or just want to find out more, please get in touch with our Volunteering Team here.
Please note, the UPSU Buddy Scheme does not replace existing UPSU or University services. If you need support that cannot be offered by your Buddy they will signpost you to other appropriate services, such as:
Who can sign up for the buddy scheme?
The buddy scheme is open to all current University of Plymouth students.
If you’re a first-year student or you’ve recently transitioned to study at the University of Plymouth we’d recommend that you sign up to become a participant here so that we can match you up with a Buddy.
Sign-ups are open until 16th November.
If you’re a returning student and think that you can provide peer to peer support to other students and help to combat loneliness then we’d love you to join us as a Volunteer Buddy here.
If you’re interested in becoming a Volunteer Buddy, applications have been extended and are now open until Wednesday 4th November.
How do I sign up?
To sign up as a participant for the Buddy Scheme all you need to do is fill out this form.
This form will be sent to the Volunteering Department who will read through and pair you up with a Buddy.
Why do I need to answer these questions?
Based on your answers in this form we will assign you a Volunteer Buddy, trying to take into account as much of the information given as possible. We will let you know who they are before they make contact with you, to arrange your first meeting either virtually or in-person at a venue on campus.
If you have any problems completing this form please contact volunteer@su.plymouth.ac.uk
How will you use the information I provide?
Please note all data collected within this form will be securely stored in line with the policies of UPSU. The data will be kept in a secure area with access limited to relevant members of staff. Your contact details will be shared with your Volunteer Buddy, so they can contact you.