Q: What is the Buddy Scheme and how does it work?

A: The Buddy Scheme is a peer support scheme that pairs new students at Sussex with current students based on preferences (such as studying the same course, interests, age, LGBTQ+ community, Ethnic Minorities, language & more), so that new students have a familiar face and a go-to person to chat to and ask all the questions about life at Sussex.

Q: How can I join the Scheme? 

A: Go to www.buddyscheme.com/apply and fill out the short application form – it’s short and easy. You will then receive your matching email, get in contact with your buddy and get chatting!

Q: How do I sign up to be a buddy volunteer? And what’s involved?

A: Go to www.buddyscheme.com/apply and use the application form to sign up as a Buddy Volunteer, then you will be added to a short online volunteer training on Canvas. You’ll receive your matches, reach out to your Buddies, answer their questions and help them settle into Sussex.

The volunteering commitment works around your time, it’s super flexible, you can commit a couple of hours a week when you have time. You can choose to be matched with 1-5 buddies.

Q: What shall i do with my buddy? 

A: It’s really up to you and your Buddy to decide. You can come to our weekly events, from Speedmates, quizzes & yoga. If you and your Buddy are both comfortable meeting, you could arrange to go on a socially distanced walk around Brighton or Stanmer park. If you’re in different places, why not arrange a Netflix Party or online study session?

Q: Is it worth joining during the pandemic? 

A: Yes! While it is not exactly the same as life before the pandemic, there is still so much you can gain from being a part of the Buddy Scheme. We have weekly events, you can still meet your Buddies for outside walks and meetups following Covid guidelines. As a volunteer it is easy and flexible to gain volunteering experience from home.