Measures in place to minimise disruption during Freshers' Week

The University of Exeter Students’ Guild is gearing up to manage the impact of the influx of some 7,000 new arrivals. Aware that the presence of several thousand new students presents a challenge for the city of Exeter as well as the Students’ Guild, a team of 180 volunteers will be recruited to provide a community link.

The Guild’s Welcome Team comprises 180 student volunteers trained to signpost, support and help new students around the city during the hectic ten day ‘freshers’ period, this year beginning on 14th September. The team works in partnership with police, venue managers and Exeter City Council to reduce night-time noise disturbance, encouraging students to use non-residential walking routes in and out of the city in the evening, and reminding them to be quiet when making their way through the city at night. All volunteers undergo rigorous training and adhere to a strict code of conduct that includes remaining teetotal.

The Welcome Team has been formally recognised by Devon and Cornwall Police and in 2012 received a High Sheriff of Devon Award for services to the police and local community.

University of Exeter Neighbourhood Beat Manager PC Ian Lugg has worked closely with the Welcome Team since 2011:

“The Welcome Team plays a vital role in prioritising student safety and managing the noise levels of students returning to halls from the city centre that can affect local residents. The team has been recognised nationally by other universities who intend to model the Welcome Team approach. These dedicated volunteers are a real asset.”

Students’ Guild Vice-President for Welfare & Community, Chris Rootkin, says:

“The Students’ Guild recognises the impact on Exeter of the arrival of several thousand new students. We greatly value our relationship with local communities and our incredible Welcome Team are invaluable in maintaining these strong links. The team works tirelessly to minimise disruption, particularly to city centre residents, and especially at night.

“Our volunteers will be highly visible in their bright pink uniforms around Exeter during the freshers’ period and will be very happy to speak to members of the public and answer any questions.”

For more information about the Welcome Team follow @ExeWelcomeTeam on Twitter or contact j.l.taylor@exeter.ac.uk