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Campus Buddies

Campus Buddy scheme for first year students with an Autism Spectrum Condition or Social Phobia.

The University of Bath runs a Campus Buddy scheme for new students who have disclosed Asperger syndrome, an Autism Spectrum Condition, Social Anxiety or Social Phobia. This service provides informal support with the social and practical aspects of student life during the first Semester at University. For example, navigation around campus and town, joining clubs and societies, etc.

Hear from former Campus Buddies

Our Campus Buddies share their experiences of supporting new students at the University who have Autism or Social Anxiety.


What is a Campus Buddy?

Campus Buddies are current students who have volunteered and undertaken relevant training. They have a good insight into what can help a new student settle into University life.


A Campus Buddy is paired with a new student with similar interests/hobbies and provides them with up to five hours support during Welcome and then up to one hour per week for the rest of Semester One.

Campus Buddies can support students in-person or online, in accordance with the current Government guidance.

Students who have had a Campus Buddy have said:

'I felt like I always had someone who could answer questions that I would otherwise be too scared to ask, like understanding how the laundry system worked and using the library. She also helped me feel really supported, and not at all isolated.'

'I found that talking to my campus buddy was very effective in relieving my anxiety. It enabled me to feel more confident about university life.'

'... knowing that the support is there if I want to go to an event, but I don’t want to go alone.'

'I found having a campus buddy very helpful because I felt much more prepared for what was to come in the first year. My buddy was very friendly and I think the scheme will be particularly helpful for students with anxiety and intolerance for change.'


Becoming a Campus Buddy

Campus Buddies are current University of Bath undergraduate and postgraduate students.


Previous Campus Buddies have said they’ve found the scheme:

'Rewarding, Satisfying, Challenging, Fun'

'I feel like I’ve been able to make a difference in someone else’s university experience.'

'It’s been good helping someone feel less worried about beginning university life.'

'I could see the difference my support made.'

Applications to be a Campus Buddy in 2023-24 are now open. The job description and application form are available here. If you have any problems accessing this or have any questions, please email us at disability-supportworkers@bath.ac.uk.

Contact us

Please email us with any questions.