Community and environment
Our local surroundings are an important part of what makes our University what it is today and are equally important to its future.
The impacts of our actions are not just confined to the University, they reach into the local community and environment too. We want to make sure that we're working with our surroundings to bring about positive change.
Partnering with York Cares
We work with York Cares, an independent, employee-volunteering charity that brings businesses, employees and communities together by matching their skills and expertise to community projects where they can have the most impact.
Students and staff at the University lead modules offered by York Children’s University, a programme that seeks to inspire children aged 7-14 years, by finding innovative ways to link real life and learning.
Promoting biodiversity
Our campus is interwoven with an array of habitats and species that play an important role in the local ecosystem, as well as adding to its beauty. Conserving these habitats alongside our growth is of the upmost importance.
- Monitoring and maintaining our green spaces, flora and fauna is a key part of our Grounds Team's role.
- Our Ecological Management Plan details how we aim to promote biodiversity on campus.
York Streetwise
Led by the University of York, the Streetwise project brings community partners together to offer support and guidance around key pedestrian routes between 10pm and 4am.
Carefully selected YUSU staff, the Streetwise team have relevant experience working with people and are on hand to support those moving through designated areas of the city at night; from directions and support, to signposting to the emergency services if needs be.
A campus for all to enjoy
York is an open campus University which staff, students and the general public can explore and enjoy. Getting outdoors is key to fostering a sense of connection with the natural world and our outdoor spaces are perfect for this.
We've maintained our Green Flag status - the national standard for publicly accessible parks and green spaces - since 2013.