Local groups can benefit from University Trans(formations) project

Bangor University hopes to unleash the creative powers of its students for the benefit of local charities and community development groups in the region.

In a new and exciting project, Bangor University students, and those at the School of Creative Studies & Media in particular, are being encouraged to work with third sector organisations on creative, vibrant and challenging projects that will promote particular issues or bring new audiences to community groups.

The aim is to pair students with charities and organisations that have a particular  message to convey. The students will be able to get to know the organisation and work with them to agree on the most appropriate medium for their message- this could be anything from short films or animations created for the internet, to performances, establishing new web based communications or more traditional advertising campaigns.

Working with students will enable community groups to harness these young people’s enthusiasm and creativity and provide access to some of the University’s resource that the students are able to use, along with their wealth of knowledge.

“We have students who really want to participate in the community in which they live; that’s clear from the number of student who already take part in volunteering opportunities run by the University, Students’ Union and external bodies. I’m delighted that the University has devised yet another way for students to contribute to the communities in the region,” said Vice-Chancellor, Professor John G. Hughes.

Organisations and charities in north Wales are already expressing interest and considering how they might benefit from the initiative.

Steve Swindon, Director of Tape Community Music and Film Ltd, a north Wales based not-for-profit company who provide safe, inclusive creative projects, training and employment said:

"At TAPE we believe that creativity is at the heart of wellbeing for individuals and communities. This opportunity fits exactly with the inclusive way in which we work and I am sure that this kind of partnership will be of great benefit to all involved."

Commenting on the project, Urtha Felda, Area Develoment Officer, MS Cymru said: “This is a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of MS. There are 4,000 people living with MS in Wales, and a chance to share both positives and challenges in their lives would benefit many people including people who may be newly diagnosed and just starting to adjust to different life expectations.  I look forward to hearing more about the project.”

Leading the initiative is Kate Taylor-Jones of the School of Creative Studies & Media. She said: “Our aim is to provide yet more opportunities for students to take an active part in the local community and for them to apply the knowledge and skills that they have to raise awareness and positive change on topics that people feel strongly about.

“We’re keen to hear from charities, community organisations, educational organisations or anyone with a passion for a topic. We will try to match the groups with student volunteers taking part in the project.”

 To participate or find out more about the project, please contact Kate Taylor-Jones at Bangor University’s School of Creative Studies & Media by e mail to cos601@bangor.ac.uk or call (01248) 388560

Publication date: 11 May 2012