THE LATEST batch of student wardens have been hitting the streets of Winton in a bid to encourage harmonious living between students and permanent residents.

Following the success of the community student warden pilot scheme last year, more than twice as many students from Bournemouth University (BU) and Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) have been recruited to take up the role throughout the current academic year.

As well as providing advice to fellow students, from when to put out the bins to how to access student support services, the 13 wardens help address concerns raised by local residents.

Psychology student Grant Smith, who took up the job in September, said: “We start off by just going out and introducing ourselves. Then we help to build up a relationship with residents in our area so that they can talk to us about any issues.

“I’ve enjoyed it so far,” he added.

Grant, 20, is one of nine students from BU and four from AUB who are employed under the scheme, which costs £20,000 to run each year and is jointly funded by Bournemouth Borough Council, Bournemouth University and Arts University Bournemouth.

Ward member for Winton East Cllr Pat Oakley, who helped come up with the initial idea, said the wardens had been well received by local residents.

He said: “The trial was a big success and the relationship between the students and the local community has really improved.”

Out of the 10,000 people living in Winton 2,500 are students, Cllr Oakley said.

He added: “Students bring energy and vitality to the area which we wouldn’t otherwise have and everybody in Bournemouth is very proud of the universities we have got here but certainly a clash of lifestyles could cause tension.

“Students like to go out and party hard and why shouldn’t they have a good time? The wardens are here to advise them and help to be able to do that without upsetting other residents.”