Partnerships are proving key to the success of the University of South Wales, who are proud to work with a range of businesses and organisations across Gwent to tackle some of the biggest cultural, economic and social challenges facing the region.

Working closely with companies in the public, private and third sector, they place collaboration and engagement at the heart of everything they do, building better futures for students, partners and communities and making an impact outside of the university (USW).

The Cyber Community Clinic at USW’s Newport campus works in partnership with Newport City Homes.

Run by cyber security students and supervised by academic staff, the clinic was piloted earlier this year in response to the continued increase in cyber-crime attacks as a result of more online services during the pandemic.

Newport City Homes residents can travel to the clinic on free Newport Bus transport and can access workshops on cyber awareness and online safety as well as drop-in advice sessions.

Members of the community can ask for help on how their device operates, setting up a new device and how to protect themselves online.

As part of USW’s strategic partnership with Newport Live, the faculty of business and creative industries is working closely with the Riverfront Theatre & Arts Centre, supporting community outreach and providing exciting opportunities for students across a range of music and performance courses.

A spokesperson said: “We are developing activities that address shared core values, including a passion for participation and success, the promotion of equity and inclusion, and a commitment to being socially conscious and environmentally responsible.

“By working in partnership with Newport Live and the communities it serves, we aim to support the health and well-being of people in the city of Newport and beyond.”

Meanwhile, the Wales Institute of Digital Information (WIDI) has launched a Research and Development Centre at USW’s Newport campus, working collaboratively with health boards from across the region to design and develop technologically enabled solutions to problems faced by health and care providers.

These solutions range from using virtual reality to train healthcare professionals, through to using remote monitoring systems to help people live independently and safely for longer.

WIDI is also working with Age Cymru Gwent to give older people the confidence they need to connect to the online world.

USW is also proud to work in partnership with Urban Circle, a youth arts charity based in Newport which provides information and advice on a range of social justice issues.

Founded by USW graduate Loren Henry, Urban Circle aims to build positive relationships within communities and enable young people to reach their potential, showcase their talent and make a valuable contribution to Newport and beyond.

“By helping transform policy and services, and contributing to a resilient, prosperous Wales, we can realise our vision to change lives and our world for a better tomorrow,” added the spokesperson.