From this summer, the Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU) will deliver the ResLife programme within Bournemouth University (BU) student accommodation.
SUBU will be the first Students’ Union in the country to deliver a ResLife programme on behalf of the university, marking an innovative approach within the higher education sector.
ResLifeBU plays an important role in supporting students’ sense of community, belonging and wellbeing, by providing opportunities for students to socialise and develop their skills whilst living in halls.
SUBU delivers a broad range of student-facing activity across clubs and societies, student voice, advice, volunteering and social events. By bringing ResLife into SUBU, students can access support, activities and development opportunities within their halls, connecting more easily with the wider student experience from the outset.
Wellbeing provision within halls will continue to be delivered by BU through Student Services, with SUBU working closely alongside colleagues to ensure a joined-up and high-quality experience for students.
This change has been carefully considered by colleagues across BU, ResLife and SUBU, and aligns with BU’s 10-year strategy, BU2035, as well as SUBU’s own strategy to make students at BU the happiest in the country.
Andy Squire, Chief Executive Officer at SUBU, said: “ResLife plays a vital role in helping students feel connected and supported in their student accommodation. Bringing this service into SUBU allows us to better integrate that experience with the wider opportunities we already offer students, from representation and support to skills and social activity.
“With our team bringing a combined 300 years of expertise in student experience, this change is about strengthening what students encounter day to day and working closely with BU colleagues to ensure a smooth and positive transition.”
Professor Niamh Downing, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, added: “This change puts students at the heart of the services we provide through ResLife and especially supports those making the transition to university in their first year of independent living. By drawing on the expertise of SUBU and the Student Support teams, we can provide students with a cohesive, supporting experience in BU accommodation.”
This transition builds on the existing strengths from both ResLife and SUBU, and aims to ensure students benefit from a cohesive, supporting experience in BU halls of residence.
SUBU will work closely with BU colleagues to ensure a smooth transition. Updates will be shared as plans develop ahead of the official switchover in July.