What are Residence Life Mentors?

Who are Residence Life Mentors?

Residence Life Mentors are approachable and friendly students from the UK and the rest of the world, who deliver the Residence Life peer mentoring scheme in University accommodation. Most of them are continuing students so they're familiar with the Residences, the University and the city of Sheffield, as well as the services available.



What do Residence Life Mentors do?

Residence Life Mentors support students with visits and ongoing contact during the year. Their job is to listen, offer information and signpost appropriately. In some cases, they escalate concerns to ensure effective resolution. They attend an extensive training programme, including Mental Health First Aid, prior to commencing the role. They receive ongoing training to further develop their skillset and expand their knowledge.

As a result, they're equipped to deal with a wide variety of student related scenarios, including but not limited to community living (e.g. flatmate conflict, noise, cleanliness, guests), mental health and wellbeing (e.g. homesickness, stress, isolation), engagement opportunities, and unwanted behaviour (e.g. harassment, aggression). When necessary, they facilitate flatmate mediation sessions to help resolve conflict. They aid the delivery of campaigns, such as Community Living. They promote and assist with Res Life events to boost engagement and create a sense of belonging amongst student residents.

How can I reach out to Residence Life Mentors?

Your mentors will visit your flat every few weeks during term time so you can wait for them to contact you or if you feel bored or lonely, have questions, or you would just like to chat with a Mentor and other students, join us at Community Cafe! Every day in term time we are running Community Cafe across the Residences; a chance to have a catch up and a hot drink with mentors. Find out more here. 

If you're not sure who your Mentor is, or you'd like to find out more about the service, email residencelife@sheffield.ac.uk .