Triangle

Frequently asked questions

If you are a current student living off campus or a member of our amazing local community and you have a question to ask, we may be able to answer it below. Check out our frequently asked questions for advice and guidance. 

These questions are updated on a regular basis as we receive queries and as we move through the academic year.

If you do not find your question or need further help you can reach out to us on our contact page.

Do you need to report an incident in the coomunity?  You submit a report to us here.

 Community Complaints Form

0P8A9281-1280x1280
 

 

Student Questions
What do if you receive a noise complaint?

If you receive a noise complaint, here are some important steps and considerations to keep in mind:

1.      Understand the Context:

Noise issues can disturb your neighbours, including families with children, professionals with early work schedules, students studying, and vulnerable residents. It's essential to be considerate of everyone in your community.

2.      Responsibility:

As a resident, you are responsible for the noise made by yourself and your guests. Ensure that any gatherings are held in safe, licensed venues rather than at home to minimise disturbances.

3.      Noise Levels:

There is no specific time when noise becomes a nuisance; loud music or conversations can be disturbing at any time of the day or night, not just after 11pm.

4.      Minimising Noise:

Always strive to keep noise to a minimum, especially when leaving your property in the evening or returning late at night. Ensure you and your guests enter and exit quietly and be mindful when using taxis or other transportation.

  1. Acknowledging the Warning:

It’s important to remember that you live in a diverse student-resident community. If appropriate, apologise to your neighbours and ensure them you’ll be extra mindful moving forwards with respect to noise levels. You should also respond to the Community Engagement Team to confirm receipt of your warning. 

 
What to do if you receive a warning as a result of a party?

If you receive a warning due to a party at your residence, it's important to understand the steps to take and the guidelines to follow to prevent future issues:

1.      Acknowledge the Warning:

Understand that the warning was issued because the party at your address caused a disturbance to the community.

2.      Guidelines for Hosting Gatherings:

Only Hold Gatherings in Licensed Venues: As a resident, you are responsible for the noise made by yourself and your guests. Ensure that any gatherings are held in safe, licensed venues rather than at home to minimise disturbances.

Respect Curfews: End gatherings at a reasonable hour to prevent late-night disturbances.

Invite Known Guests Only: Only invite people you know personally to avoid losing control over the event.

Be Mindful of Outdoor Areas: Minimise outdoor activity late at night as noise carries further and is more likely to disturb neighbours.

3.      Consequences of Disruptive Behaviour:

University Action: Repeated disturbances can lead to formal disciplinary action in line with the University's Code of Discipline for Students.

Local Authority Action: Persistent disturbances may result in Community Protection Notice Warnings (CPNWs) from Nottingham City Council, which can lead to further legal action if breached.

4.      Moving Forward:

Cooperation and adherence to these guidelines are crucial for maintaining a peaceful and respectful living environment. If you have any questions, concerns, or need further support, please feel free to contact us.

 
What to do if you receive a CPN warning?

If you receive a Community Protection Notice Warning (CPNW) from Nottingham City Council, follow these steps:

1.      Understand the Notice:

The notice indicates that your behaviour has had a detrimental effect on the local community, in accordance with Section 43(5) of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This can result in:

  • Community Protection Notice Warning (CPNW)
  • Community Protection Notice (CPN)
  • Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN)

2.      University Expectations:

The University of Nottingham expects students to be good neighbours and comply with the Code of Discipline for Students, which ensures communal life standards are maintained. By registering with the University, you have agreed to adhere to these regulations and show respect for the community.

3.      Actions to Take:

Modify Your Behaviour: Accept this notice as a formal direction to change your behaviour to avoid disturbing those around you. Non-compliance without good reason is considered an offense under Section 8.3(21) of the Code of Discipline for Students.

4.      Potential Consequences:

The standard University process for dealing with community-related student misconduct involves:

  • CPNW: Advisory email and direction for future conduct. Depending on the severity, a disciplinary process might be initiated.
  • CPN: Disciplinary meeting with potential financial sanctions.
  • FPN: Further disciplinary meetings with enhanced jurisdiction, including possible house closure notices.

5.      Avoiding Escalation:

Take steps to avoid any further incidents. Continued misconduct will lead to a formal University disciplinary investigation and potential financial sanctions ranging from £250 to £1,500.

6.      Reflect on Your Actions:

Consider the impact of your behaviour on the community, which includes young families, professionals, and elderly or vulnerable residents who are affected by antisocial behaviour.

7.      Resources and Support:

Review the Community Engagement webpages and the Community Information Video for more guidance.

For independent advice on the warning, contact Students' Union Advice at suadvice@nottingham.ac.uk or call 0115 84 68730.

Your cooperation in modifying your behaviour is essential to maintaining a harmonious and respectful community.

 
What to do if you’re experiencing waste issues?

If you're experiencing waste issues, here are the steps to address and manage them effectively:

1.      Identify the Issue:

An excessive build-up of general waste that cannot be contained within your green bin (general waste) has been noted. This waste accumulation may be in the frontage, on the street, or in the side areas of your property.

2.      Why It's Important:

This build-up is unsightly, attracts vermin and pests, and is harmful to the environment. Community Protection Officers (CPOs) can apply sanctions for improper waste management and may contact your managing agent or landlord about the issue.

3.      Immediate Actions to Take:

Re-bag Loose Waste: If loose bags of waste have been torn open, re-bag and pick up all associated litter, then dispose of it properly. Double bagging is recommended.

Decontaminate Recycling Bins: If recycling bins are contaminated with non-recyclable items, ensure the lids are down and present them for collection. Contaminated bins will be picked up by a general waste crew. Alternatively, remove non-recyclable materials from the recycling bin and place them in the general waste bin.

Proper Waste Disposal: Ensure all properly bagged waste is placed in a green bin or presented for collection on the day of collection only. Do not leave waste in the front garden, side passage, porch, or any other exposed area.

4.      If You Need Help:

Contact your managing agent or landlord for assistance if you are unable to manage your waste.

5.      Prevent Future Issues:

Dispose of waste in a timely manner to avoid build-up. It is your responsibility to manage waste effectively. Regular patrols and checks will be conducted by Community Protection Officers to monitor progress.

6.      University Sanctions:

The University can apply sanctions for community misconduct, including improper waste management, under the Code of Discipline for Students. Failure to address waste issues may put you in breach of section 8.4 (19) of the Code.

7.      Useful Information:

Bin Collection: Know your bin day and bring your bin back in to avoid fines: Check My Bin Collection Day.

Recycling: Learn what can and cannot be recycled to reduce general waste. Recycle right here.

End of Term Waste Management: Start using bins and charity banks weeks before moving out to manage waste effectively. Learn more here.

8.      Further Assistance:

For any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 
What to do if your recycling bin is contaminated?

If your recycling bin is contaminated, follow these steps to address and resolve the issue:

1.      Understand the Issue:

Nottingham City Council has identified that your recycling bin contains improper items, which may prevent it from being collected.

2.      Steps to Correct Contamination:

Clean: Rinse out any food or drink residue from containers.

Dry: Ensure all recyclables are free from liquids.

Loose: Do not place recyclables in plastic bags; keep them loose in the bin.

3.      Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Do not dispose of dirty or greasy fast-food packaging, such as takeaway pizza boxes, in the recycling bin.

4.      Avoiding Fines:

Leaving your bin on the street outside of collection day may result in a Nottingham City Council fine.

5.      Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Consistent failure to properly manage your waste and recycling can lead to action by the City Council enforcement team and may be referred to the University under the Code of Discipline for Students.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your recycling is collected without issue and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable community.

 
What to do if you receive a parking warning?

If you receive a parking warning, here’s what you should do:

1.      Understand the Issue:

The warning indicates that your parking practices may have caused inconvenience to local residents.

2.      Follow Respectful Parking Practices:

Avoid Blocking Driveways and Access Points: Ensure your vehicle does not obstruct driveways, gates, or emergency service access points.

Respect Parking Restrictions: Adhere to local parking signs and restrictions, including permit-only areas and no-parking zones.

Minimise Noise: Keep noise to a minimum when parking late at night or early in the morning to avoid disturbing residents.

3.      Reflecting University Values:

Your actions reflect on the University of Nottingham. Cooperating with local parking rules helps maintain a positive relationship with the community.

4.      Consider Alternative Parking Solutions:

Public Parking and University Facilities:

Ensure you are following guidelines correctly if using a resident permit. Use apps like JustPark or Park-on-my-driveway to find private parking facilities. Check your eligibility for a University parking permit.

Public Transportation & Hopper Buses:

Nottingham offers excellent public transportation, including buses and trams. More information on routes and schedules can be found here. University Hopper buses are a great (free) option for traveling between campuses.

Bicycle Use:

Cycling can be a convenient and eco-friendly option. The university offers secure bike storage facilities and showers for cyclists. Transport Nottingham also offers bike storage facilities for as little as £12 per year; find out more here.

Car Sharing:

Consider carpooling with friends or classmates to reduce the number of vehicles needing parking space.

1.      Resolution and Moving Forward:

We aim to resolve these issues amicably and appreciate your cooperation in ensuring respectful and considerate parking practices. By following the guidelines above, we can help maintain a positive environment for both students and local residents.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued efforts in representing the University of Nottingham positively within our community.

 
What to do if you’ve received a suspected drug use warning?

If you've received a suspected drug use warning, here’s what you need to know and do:

1.      Allegations of Illegal Drug Use:

The University of Nottingham has been alerted by a community member or public service report that there is reasonable suspicion of illegal drug use or possession at your residence. The University upholds a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drug use, as stated in the Code of Discipline for Students.

2.      Formal Directive:

This communication serves as a formal directive to cease any use or possession of illegal drugs at your residence. Failure to comply with this directive will result in a disciplinary hearing according to Section 8.4.19 of the Code of Discipline for Students.

3.      Potential Consequences:

University Disciplinary Actions: Non-compliance with this directive may lead to serious disciplinary actions by the University.

Tenancy Agreement Violations: Your actions may also violate your tenancy agreement with your private accommodation provider, potentially leading to significant consequences. It is crucial to adhere to the terms and conditions of your accommodation contract.

Legal Repercussions: Any criminal activity, including drug use, may be escalated to the Police, leading to legal consequences.

4.      Support and Resources:

The University of Nottingham offers support and advice to students who are engaged with or contemplating drug use. We strongly encourage you to review the information available here, which includes details on how to access various support services.

5.      Final Warning:

This email serves as an official warning. No further action will be taken if you comply with the directive outlined above. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 
What to do if you’ve experienced a burglary?

Immediate Steps and University Support

If you’ve experienced a burglary, the University of Nottingham Community Engagement Team advises the following immediate steps and offers support to enhance your safety:

1. University and Police Collaboration: The University is collaborating with Nottinghamshire Police to increase patrols in high-risk areas and has launched a “Safety in the City Campaign” for additional resources. Please contact the Community Engagement Team who can work with the Police to support you.

2. Secure Your Home: Ensure that all doors and windows are locked at all times. Consider upgrading your locks or installing security devices for added protection.

3. Stay Vigilant: Be alert to any unusual activity around your neighbourhood and report any suspicions to the police or campus security without delay.

4. Illuminate Your Property: Use outdoor lighting, especially motion-sensor lights, to discourage potential burglars.

5. Protect Your Valuables: Keep expensive items and important documents out of view and use a safe if possible.

6. Join Neighbourhood Watch: Get involved with local neighbourhood watch programs to stay updated and contribute to the safety of your community.

Resources Available to You:

Campus Security: Reachable 24/7 at 0115 951 3013 or 0115 951 8888 for emergencies. Email: security@nottingham.ac.uk

Student Support Services: For emotional support or advice, access the student support services here.

Crime Prevention Advice: Visit Nottinghamshire Police Crime Prevention for more tips.

Moving Forward: Your well-being is our top concern. By adhering to these guidelines and remaining watchful, we can collectively lower the risk of burglaries and ensure a secure environment for everyone.

For any further concerns or assistance, please contact the University of Nottingham Community Engagement Team.

 
What to do if you need signposting to welfare services?

A: Accessing University Support Services

If you’re seeking support for your wellbeing, the University of Nottingham offers comprehensive services to assist you:

1. Student Support and Wellbeing Services: Our team provides confidential support and guidance. You can contact them to discuss any concerns and explore available support options. Login to your Student Life account to access these services.

2. Counselling Service: Professional counsellors are at your service to help address personal challenges. This is a referral service; therefore, you will need to contact Student Support and Welfare Services.

3. Togetherall: Join a 24-hour support network of anonymous members who share and understand mental health struggles. You can download the app or visit togetherall.com

Additional Resources:

Wellbeing Workshops and Events: Participate in workshops focusing on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience. The University of Nottingham Wellbeing homepage has details of upcoming events.

Peer Support Programs: Connect with trained student peers for a supportive listening ear and shared experiences. Search ‘University of Nottingham Peer mentoring’.

Stay Connected:

Engage with student groups, university events, or maintain contact with friends and family to bolster your wellbeing. The University have over 200 societies and 70 sports clubs to get involved with.

We are Here for You:

You are not alone. The University is dedicated to supporting you. For assistance or more information, reach out to the Community Engagement Team or the support services.

 
What to do if you’re having tenancy issues?

University Support and External Resources

If you’re facing challenges with your living situation, the University of Nottingham offers support and resources to guide you through resolving these issues:

1. University Support Services:

Student Advice Centre: Offers guidance on housing issues such as tenancy agreements, disputes with landlords, and cohabitation concerns. They provide confidential, tailored advice.

Residential Experience Team: Assists students living in university accommodation with any residence-related issues.

2. External Resources:

Shelter: Provides comprehensive advice on housing matters, including landlord interactions, tenancy agreements, and tenant rights.

Citizen’s Advice: Offers detailed housing and legal advice for tenants, including dispute management and further assistance.

Tenancy Deposit Scheme: Guides you through questions and disputes related to tenancy deposits.

Taking the Next Steps: Utilize these services for support. The Student Advice Centre can offer an initial consultation to help you identify the best course of action.

We are Here for You: You are not alone. The University is committed to supporting you and aiding in improving your living conditions.

For further assistance or questions, please contact the University of Nottingham’s support services or reach out directly to the Community Engagement Team.

 
How can I be a good neighbour?

Respecting property: 

  • As a Tenant: Report maintenance issues as soon as they arise, provide detailed information and photos to your landlord. Use the Landlord’s preferred communication method and keep record of all conversations.
  • Landlord Responsibilities: It’s the Landlord’s responsibility to maintain structural integrity, keep major systems in working order and address repairs. It’s also essential that they comply this Health & Safety regulations and respect tenants’ privacy. If you are facing difficulties with you landlord, please contact the University for support/
  • Cleaning Tips: Create a weekly/monthly cleaning schedule. Assign tasks to specific days or roommates. Use checklists to stay on track.

 

Parking considerations: 

  • Permit Parking: If a permit is required to park at your address there will be signs located at all zone entry points. They will confirm the hours during which parking is controlled in the area and restrictions in place. To apply for a permit, search ‘Nottingham Resident’s Parking Permit’.
  • Carpool: We encourage carpooling to reduce parking issues. Misuse of permits may result the issue of penalty charge notices.
  • Alternatives: Consider Public transport or Cycle facilities.
  • Legal parking: It’s important to park legally and considerately, this means respecting driveway entrances, ensuring your vehicle is not blocking others, avoiding taking up multiple spaces, and making sure your vehicle is properly aligned. For further information please refer to the highway code on Gov.com.  

 

Community Involvement & Cultural Celebration: 

  • Embrace cultural diversity by visiting local landmarks, attending workshops, and learning about different traditions.
  • You could attend Nottingham Mela, a South Asian festival of culture with music, dance, food and arts.
  • Or why not illuminate your imagination by attending Light Night, an annual event where the city comes alive with light installations, music, and performances that celebrate Nottingham’s creativity and community spirit.

 

There are so many opportunities to get involved with your local community, this approach will not only help you settle into your neighbourhood, but also enrich your university experience. Take a look at ‘Visit Nottinghamshire’ to immerse yourself in all the city has to offer.

 

Conflict Resolution: 

  • Clear Expectations: Agree on clear expectations with neighbours and housemates from the offset.
  • Regular Communication: Encourage check-ins with your neighbours and housemates. These don’t have to be formal, a simple ‘Hello, how are things’. Open communication can aid to address small issues before they escalate.
  • Respectful Behaviour: Always remain respectful towards others’ space, belongings, and differences.

 

Noise Awareness: 

  • Keep music, TV and other electronic devices at a reasonable volume at all times.
  • Use headphones or earbuds for personal listening.
  • There are also simple methods of sound proofing, such as adding rugs, curtains and furniture to dampen noise.
  • Be mindful of how daily activities like vacuuming and moving furniture can impact your neighbours – nobody want to hear your hairdryer at 1AM.
  • If you are hosting others, make sure it’s always close friends ONLY, be sure to inform neighbours in advance, and set a time limit for wrapping up!

 

Waste Management: 

  • Waste segregation is a vital aspect of its disposal. You need to know the difference between general waste, recyclable waste, organic waste and so forth. Your bins will be colour coded and only accept specific types of waste. Different bins will also be collected on difference schedules.
  • If you’re unsure what goes in which bin, take a look at the government website; here you’ll also be able to find a calendar of your bin collection days. If you’re struggling with waste disposal due to broken bins or lack of collection, you can report this online and also put a request in for a new bin.
  • Busting myths: PIZZA BOXES CANNOT GO IN THE RECYCLING. That’s right, any takeaway containers with residue or food remains will not be accepted as recyclable material. In these scenarios, your bin will be considered ‘contaminated’ and simply won’t be collected. To avoid build-up of waste, be sure to rinse containers, flatten boxes and put your takeaways in the general waste! 
 

What are my responsibilities as outlined in the Code of Conduct?

 
 

 

Resident Questions
What to do if a student-neighbour is being unreasonably noisy?

If you are experiencing noise disturbances from a student neighbour, here are the steps you can take:

1.      Report the Noise:

Contact us to report the noise issue. Provide the specific address and date of the disturbance. You can email us at: communityengagement@nottingham.ac.uk or click the following link to fill out our complaints form: XXXX

2.      University Actions:

We take these complaints seriously and will communicate with the students involved, reminding them to:

Maintain a Quiet Environment: Keep noise levels low inside their homes and when arriving or leaving, especially during late hours.

Respect the Community: Be considerate of the diverse neighbourhood, including families, professionals, students, and vulnerable residents.

Avoid Large Gatherings: Host large gatherings in licensed venues instead of residential properties.

3.      Preventative Measures:

The University of Nottingham is committed to preventing future disturbances by:

Awareness and Education: Providing students with resources and guidelines on being considerate neighbours.

Regular Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the situation and working with local authorities to ensure community standards are upheld.

4.      Our Commitment:

We strive to create a supportive and peaceful environment for all residents. Open communication and collaboration with the community are key to achieving this.

If you have further questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to maintain a respectful and enjoyable neighbourhood for everyone.

 
What to do if a student-neighbour is hosting a loud party in the early hours?

If a student-neighbour is hosting a loud party in the early hours, here are the steps you can take and the measures we have in place:

1.      Report the Noise:

Contact us to report the noise issue. Provide the specific address and details of the disturbance. You can email us at: communityengagement@nottingham.ac.uk or click the following link to fill out our complaints form here.

2.      University Actions:

We take these complaints seriously and will communicate with the students involved, reminding them to:

Limit the Number of Guests: Large gatherings should be held in licensed venues, not at home. Keeping gatherings small helps avoid excessive noise and overcrowding.

Control Noise Levels: Be mindful of music and conversation volumes, especially late at night, and keep windows and doors closed to contain noise. Noise can be disturbing at any time, not just after 11pm.

Respect Curfews: End gatherings at a reasonable hour to prevent late-night disturbances.

Invite Known Guests Only: Invite only people they know personally to maintain control over the event.

Minimise Outdoor Activity: Reduce outdoor activity late at night as noise carries further and is more likely to disturb neighbours.

3.      Ensuring Accountability:

University Action: Continued disruptive behaviour may result in formal disciplinary action according to the University's Code of Discipline for Students.

Local Authority Action: Nottingham City Council may issue Community Protection Notice Warnings (CPNWs) if disturbances persist, and breaching these warnings can lead to further legal action.

4.      Our Commitment to the Community:

We are dedicated to ensuring a peaceful and respectful living environment for all community members. Your feedback is important to us, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we address this issue.

5.      Moving Forward:

We are committed to maintaining open communication with our neighbours. If you have further questions, concerns, or need additional support, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your input helps us foster a positive living environment for everyone.

Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We look forward to working together to create a harmonious community.

 
What to do if a student-neighbours’ waste is becoming a problem?
  1.       Report the Waste

Contact us to report the waste issue. Provide the specific address and date of the disturbance. You can email us at: communityengagement@nottingham.ac.uk or click the following link to fill out our complaints form here.

  1.       University Actions:

We take these complaints seriously and will communicate with the students involved, reminding them to:

Re-bag Loose Waste: Students are instructed to securely re-bag any loose waste and pick up litter, with double bagging recommended for torn bags.

Decontaminate Recycling Bins: Contaminated recycling bins should be decontaminated or presented with closed lids for collection by general waste crews.

Dispose Effectively: All waste must be placed in green bins or presented on the designated collection day, avoiding leaving it in exposed areas.

Contact Landlords: Students unable to manage their waste, are advised to contact their managing agent or landlord for help.  

Nottingham City Council: We support students through our links with the Council, organising extra collections and providing information on waste management schemes.   

Regular Patrols: Members of the Community Engagement Team, Student Ambassadors and Council Members will conduct regular checks to ensure compliance and address any issues.

  1. Resources for Effective Waste Management:

Bin Collection Information: Students are provided with bin collection schedules and reminded to avoid fines by bringing bins back in.

Recycling Guidelines: Clear guidelines on recycling are given to reduce general waste.

End-of-Term Waste Advice: Tips on managing waste before moving out, including using bins and charity banks, are shared.

  1. Ensuring Accountability:

Community Misconduct: The University may apply sanctions for improper waste management under the Code of Discipline for Students.

Commitment to Community Well-being: The University is dedicated to maintaining a clean and respectful environment and values your feedback to ensure effective waste management.

Further Assistance: For additional questions or concerns, please contact the University of Nottingham Community Engagement Team. Your input helps maintain a harmonious community.

 
What do to if a student neighbour is causing parking issues?

If your student-neighbours are causing parking issues, here’s how we are addressing the problem and what you can do:

1.      Report the parking issue:

Contact us to report the parking issue. Provide the specific address and details of the disturbance. You can email us at: communityengagement@nottingham.ac.uk or click the following link to fill out our complaints form: XXXX

1.      University Action:

We take these complaints seriously and will communicate with the students involved, reminding them to:

Avoid Blocking Driveways and Access Points: Ensuring their vehicles do not obstruct driveways, gates, or emergency access points.

Respect Parking Restrictions: Adhering to local parking signs and restrictions, including permit-only areas and no-parking zones.

Minimise Noise: Keeping noise to a minimum, especially late at night or early in the morning, to avoid disturbing residents.

2.      Commitment to Community Relations:

We understand the inconvenience and frustration that irresponsible parking can cause. It’s important to note that the majority of our students are conscientious and respectful community members. The issues reported pertain to a small minority, and we are committed to addressing these behaviours promptly and effectively.

3.      Consequences for Continued Irresponsible Parking:

Students are informed that continued violations of parking regulations will result in consequences, including potential disciplinary actions by the University. We will work closely with local authorities to ensure compliance and mitigate further disturbances.

4.      Promoting Community Cohesion:

Our mission is to positively integrate students into the community and foster a harmonious living environment for all residents. We believe that open communication and proactive measures are key to achieving this goal. In addition to addressing parking issues, we are continually working on initiatives to promote community engagement and mutual respect between students and residents.

5.      Moving Forward:

If you experience problems with parking or have any other concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us create a cohesive and supportive community.

Thank you for your understanding and for your role in maintaining a positive and welcoming neighbourhood.

 
 

We hope this will help answer your query, however if you cannot find the answer to your question, please contact us.