The JMSU Buddy Scheme
Find a friend. Share the journey. Shape your experience.
At JMSU, the Buddy Scheme is more than just meeting someone new. It’s about connection, support, and belonging. Whether you’re starting fresh in a new city, adjusting to university life, or looking to give back by guiding others, the scheme offers a chance to build friendships that last. Every conversation, every coffee, every moment shared helps make the transition to uni smoother and more meaningful. This is where confidence grows, communities form, and your LJMU experience becomes something truly special. Having a buddy doesn’t just help you settle in — it helps you thrive.
Looking for a friend at uni?
The JMSU Buddy Scheme is a pilot initiative designed to make the transition to university easier, helping reduce isolation and supporting students as they settle in.
Moving to a new city, country, or educational environment can be daunting — the Buddy Scheme helps make that journey smoother. As this is a pilot scheme, there are limited volunteer buddies per applicant. If we cannot match you, we will signpost you to other JMSU services and student groups so you can stay connected during your time at LJMU.
How does it work?
Sign up
Students apply for a buddy, providing basic details such as their course, interests, and reasons for joining.
Matching up
JMSU pairs students based on their needs, interests, and experiences.
Training
Buddy volunteers complete training before reaching out. See more info below.
It’s up to you
Buddies decide together how, where, and when to meet. Discuss requirements and schedules to make the most of your experience.
Meet some buddies!
JMSU will host special Buddy Scheme events for everyone to meet, socialise, and build community.
FAQ's
How do I become a volunteer buddy?
Do you have knowledge of life as an LJMU student? Have you completed at least one year of your studies and know Liverpool well? If you would like to volunteer as a Buddy, to support students who are settling into LJMU life, please apply via our volunteering portal.
How do I get a buddy?
Interested in being matched with a volunteer buddy?
There may be some time between applying to get a buddy and hearing back from us. Don’t worry- we will have received your application.
We will be working behind the scenes to match you with a buddy. If we have more buddy members than buddy volunteers, we might need to keep you on our waiting list. We will email you to keep you updated and in the meantime, you may want to take part in our Communities, Sports Teams, Societies and other JMSU activity.
Are Buddy volunteers trained?
Yes, our Buddy Volunteers will be trained before they are matched with you. This will include information about their role, boundaries, safeguarding and signposting. They will also have access to our Student Leader Training Package.
I have been assigned a buddy, what’s next?
Once you've been assigned a buddy, the next step is to introduce yourself. Reach out via email or your agreed communication method to schedule your first meeting. Discuss your availability and interests to plan future activities together.
What can I do with my Buddy?
You can engage in various activities with your buddy, such as exploring campus, attending events, grabbing a coffee, or simply hanging out.
The aim is to help each other settle into university life and provide mutual support. Be sure to choose activities that both of you are comfortable with.
What can I talk about with my Buddy?
Conversations with your buddy can cover a wide range of topics, including academic experiences, hobbies, cultural backgrounds, and everyday life at university.
The goal is to build a friendly and supportive relationship, so feel free to discuss common interests and share helpful hints and tips.
My Buddy isn’t speaking to me, what do I do?
If your buddy isn't responding, it could be due to various reasons, such as being busy or feeling shy. Send a friendly follow-up message and suggest a new meeting time.
If there’s no response after a reasonable period, please reach out to jmsuvolunteering@ljmu.ac.uk or jmsu-edi@ljmu.ac.uk or call us on 0151 231 4900.
I have feedback or concerns, who should I contact?
Please get in touch with us if you have any feedback about the Scheme or any concerns about contact with your Buddy. Email jmsuvolunteering@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 4900.
