Tips for new students on being a good neighbour

First-year students at the University of Leicester are being given guidance to help them get on with their new neighbours.

City wardens, firefighters and police officers working in Clarendon Park, in the city, have launched a scheme for the newcomers, many of whom may be living away from home for the first time.

Supported by the university's welfare office, representatives will be visiting homes and businesses offering safety advice and tips to avoid common problems that tend to crop up with each year's new intake.

They include anti-social noise, the threat of arson from bins or rubbish dumped on the street, personal safety, preventing burglary, fire safety and consideration for neighbours.

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Firefighter Rob Perrin said: "Hopefully, this campaign will help residents and students to happily live side-by-side.

"As first-time householders, many students may not have an awareness of issues such as fire safety, smoke alarm maintenance, the rules on recycling, rubbish collection and home security.

"We want to speak to them to reduce common problems which tend to flare up every year.

"Newcomers may also be unfamiliar with issues facing the area and our job is to make them more aware of the community around them.

"It's not just for their benefit, but to promote a better understanding of their neighbours who might live a very different lifestyle to them."

Homes will also receive informative leaflets with advice and useful contact numbers at the council and university.

Pc Emma Jayne, of the Clarendon Park beat team, said: "We understand crime prevention isn't always at the forefront of a student's mind and that's why we have taken it upon ourselves to take the advice direct to them.

"There are plenty of simple ways new students can keep themselves safe, it's just a case of knowing what to do.

"I think there are very few new students who realise some easy mistakes can leave them vulnerable, such as leaving their bedroom window open.

"We hope that by offering some simple tips they will be able to enjoy their time at university and not be the victim of a crime."

Leicester city warden team manager Barbara Whitcombe said: "With so many new arrivals settling in, we are keen to ensure they know about any issues, such as bins on streets, and the services available to them, including the city warden service and bulk waste collections.

"We hope this work will encourage both students and permanent residents to be mindful of each other and to be aware of the help available."