Making sure everyone's stay is as positive as possible

Although some of you will be living in Halls for a small part of your University journey, this is your new home where you and everyone else around deserve to live comfortably. Everyone has a part to play in making sure that you’re surrounded by good, friendly and considerate neighbours. So, try asking yourself:

🎶How loud is your music?

If it can be heard outside of your room this might disturb others in your flat, especially late at night. Be mindful of noise levels. Lower your music or use earphones.

💤How quiet are you when coming home late?

The chances are that everyone in your flat has different courses and schedules meaning that although you live in University Halls, not everyone wants to be awake until late. Take extra care to be quiet when coming home late or in the early hours.

🤔Is anyone in your flat excluded?

Do you often host groups of friends? Consider who lives in your flat and whether this will isolate anyone e.g. if someone doesn't drink alcohol. Invite them to join in or consider finding somewhere else to meet up with friends if you often use your flat's social space.

🧼Do you clean up after using the kitchen and living space?

Regularly keeping on top of your own mess means that your flat will stay tidy and can save awkward conversations on who didn't wash up! Make your flatmate's day and leave the kitchen sparkly clean and ready to use. Catch our kitchen cleaning tips here!

🚮 Do you use the bins outside of your Hall too?

Be mindful of getting rid of litter and leaving no trace - lots of our Halls are surrounded by the local, residential neighbours which means it's just as important to be a considerate within your local area.

If you're experiencing any issues with neighbours, remember your Residential Adviser is here to offer support and advice. You can find your RA's contact details on your kitchen poster. You can find the out of hours duty phone number in your hall's handbook here.

Have 'that' chat...

It might seem a little awkward to lay down some flat rules but doing this sooner rather than later can save a whole load of issues. Knowing what everyone's boundaries and expectations are mean that you be a considerate flatmate.  Here's some topics you can approach:

• Cleaning - share out the cleaning chores in your kitchen and living area to make sure the cleaning is shared between everyone (if you haven't already got a copy, your RA can provide a cleaning rota for your flat - just drop them a message)
• Guests - if friends are coming over for the evening or if someone is staying over, discuss whether you want to let each other know beforehand, especially if they'll be using the shared areas
• Sharing food items - everyone feels comfortable with different ideas around sharing food but letting each other know where you stand beforehand will save a headache later

These might feel a little tricky to approach but, trust us, it's all part and parcel of independent living and will become easier with time and experience. If any of these flat-related issues start to get in the way of your everyday, reach out to your Residential Adviser for a chat or some advice - it's what they're here for!

Three simple ways that you make a neighbour or flatmate's day...

1. Offer your flatmates a cup of tea because a simple tea and chat can go a long way!
2. Suggest a flat meal, movie night or coffee or matcha trip to help get to know each other better 
3. Check in with your flatmates - a simple ‘how’s things?’ or ‘how’ve you been keeping?’ can mean a lot, especially during stressful times such as exam season 

If you are ever concerned about a flatmate, contact your Residential Adviser or Halls team who can pop in and check in on them. There’s lots of support available in Halls and at University, find out more here.