Sheffield Students' Union Implements New Strategy to Enhance Student Belonging Experience

The University of Sheffield Students' Union (SU), renowned as one of the UK's leading student unions, is embarking on an innovative strategic direction that places student belonging at the heart of its initiatives. With over 31,000 members, the union is committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for all students, especially as they navigate the complexities of university life.

A New Digital Mapping Initiative

As part of this new direction, the Students' Union has introduced an advanced digital mapping solution known as MazeMap. This tool is designed to transform how students access and engage with the various facilities that the SU has to offer, making it especially beneficial for newcomers and those with mobility or language challenges.

Richard Copley, the project lead at the University of Sheffield Students' Union, emphasized the importance of this change, stating, “A lot of our work is about making students feel like this is their space. We wanted to make it more accessible, discoverable, and welcoming.” The SU's complex six-story structure houses everything from cinemas and nightclubs to vital student services, underscoring the need for efficient navigation.

Real-World Impact of Digital Wayfinding

The implementation of MazeMap is not just about providing directions; it serves to foster a welcoming atmosphere for students. The digital mapping system allows for step-free navigation throughout the Union, enabling users to find their way between venues and access information in multiple languages. This inclusivity is critical, considering that over 10,000 of Sheffield's students come from international backgrounds.

The practical outcomes of this initiative are already apparent. In initial testing, a significant discovery was made that the most straightforward path connecting two heavily trafficked venues involved stairs, illustrating a need for improved accessibility within the building. This revelation has led to discussions regarding future enhancements to physical accessibility alongside the digital solutions being implemented.

Supporting Students Before They Arrive

Looking ahead, the University of Sheffield Students' Union is planning to extend its digital tools to better prepare students even before they set foot on campus. By integrating digital orientation into their induction programs, incoming students can explore the Union virtually, familiarizing themselves with essential services and the environment before their arrival in Sheffield. This initiative targets the transition period when students await confirmation and prepare to relocate, helping them feel more connected from the outset.

Copley shared, “It’s a strange time when students are in limbo, waiting to come to Sheffield. We see it as a real opportunity to say, ‘We’re ready for you. Here’s your place. Take a look around.’”

Accessibility as a Paramount Strategy

The decision to incorporate MazeMap emerged from years of feedback from students regarding the difficulty of navigating the Union’s physical space. By meticulously mapping the interior scenes and paths, SU has gained valuable insights into the areas that require improvement. This understanding guides operational adjustments, ensuring that accessibility is not an afterthought but a top priority.

In addition to navigation, students have begun to utilize MazeMap to discover quieter spaces within the union, thereby cultivating a sense of community. Copley expressed optimism about the technology, stating, “If we can guide students to spaces they wouldn’t otherwise find, and make them feel welcome there, we create opportunities for deeper engagement.”

A Promising Path Forward

As the Union's broader ambitions regarding well-being, sustainability, and digital engagement continue to evolve, the groundwork established through the implementation of MazeMap offers a constructive foundation. Fostering an atmosphere where every individual feels included, informed, and empowered remains at the forefront of the initiative.

While Copley is realistic about the challenges ahead, he acknowledges small victories, saying, “We’re not claiming to have solved everything, but if even one student feels more confident, more connected, or more seen because of this work, that’s a win for us.” Sheffield Students' Union is leading by example in higher education, demonstrating how digital solutions, commitment to accessibility, and a strong sense of mission can unify and enhance student life.

For further details about the Sheffield Students' Union and its initiatives, visit sheffield.ac.uk/su or contact Richard Copley at [email protected]