Community relations

We work with residents and city partners to keep neighbourhoods safe, clean and welcoming - and to resolve student-related issues quickly and fairly.

A group of people litter picking in Crookes Valley Park
Off

Working with partners across the city

Community relations works best when it is joined-up. We work closely with Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Hallam University, local residents’ groups, landlords and letting agents - and, where needed, South Yorkshire Police - to understand concerns, coordinate responses and improve how we support neighbourhoods.

Sheffield Student Neighbours

We co-run the Sheffield Student Neighbours website with Sheffield Hallam University. It provides a single place to find practical guidance and clear routes for reporting concerns relating to students living in the community.

Sheffield Student Neighbours includes:

  • advice on noise and anti-social behaviour, including who to contact and when
  • waste and recycling guidance and local information
  • key dates when student activity can have a larger impact on neighbourhoods
  • community resources and ways for students to get involved locally
  • information on the Sheffield Student Good Neighbour Forum

Reporting noise or anti-social behaviour

The Sheffield Student Neighbours website explains the best way to report different issues, including when to contact the Council or the police.

If you believe the issue involves University of Sheffield students, you can also contact our 24-hour Security helpline on +44 114 222 4085. Security officers can attend to speak with students and, where appropriate, escalate repeat or serious concerns through University processes.

Helping students be good neighbours

We share clear information with students about how to live considerately in residential areas - including being mindful about noise, taking responsibility for their property, and managing waste properly. We also encourage students to get involved in local community activity and volunteering, recognising that positive relationships are built through everyday actions.

Sheffield Volunteering

Waste, recycling and end-of-term clear-out

Waste and recycling can be a particular challenge at the end of term, when many students move house at the same time. We work with partners to reduce disruption, promote reuse and donation, and support street cleanliness across student neighbourhoods.

Donate, Don't Waste

Working with landlords and letting agents

Good-quality housing and responsible property management are essential for good community relations. We work with landlords and letting agents to encourage high standards and to help resolve issues linked to student properties.

Smart Move Sheffield

Staying in touch with local communities

We engage proactively through local forums and residents’ groups, and we meet regularly with community representatives in neighbourhoods with large student populations. This helps us listen, share updates, and respond to concerns early.

Sheffield Student Good Neighbours

Our sustainability strategy

We have set the principles and direction for our sustainability strategy