All throughout November, we’ve been checking in with you and seeing how you’ve been finding things. From signposting you to relevant services, to asking for your feedback on how we can make things better – so much has been going on this month.
So, we thought we’d compile the resources and services we’ve been talking about, so they’re right here if ever you need them. Remember, we all need support sometimes, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Here’s some great resources you can access if you need support…
The Guild
Welfare & Community Officer: Charlotte, is always here to listen to and support you. So if ever you need a friendly chat, be sure to get in contact.
Guild Advice: Feeling a little overwhelmed or like you need a friendly chat? Guild Advice offer confidential support to ALL students. So if you need advice on academics, welfare, housing, finance or international issues, please do email the Team.
Student Mentors: Living in halls? Feeling homesick or lonely and need someone to talk to? The Student Mentors are here to help! Watch this video of Mentor Fergal and Welfare and Community Officer Charlotte, telling you all about the service.
Birmingham Nightline: offer an anonymous, confidential listening service. This student group is made up of volunteers who are available via email or their instant messaging services. So if you need to talk, please get in touch.
Staying connected...
Staying connected is so important right now, and there are many ways of doing this, including:
Joining a Student Group: this a great chance to develop new hobbies and make friends.
We also have a range of support-based societies available to all students. From anonymous messaging, to building your support network – Read Amie’s blog all about these groups. Alongside this, there’s also a range of groups that focus on supporting yours and others’ physical health. Learn all about these societies.
The UoB Virtual Neighbourhood: this Facebook group is where your student groups and Officers post campaign and event updates, so there’s so many opportunities for you to get involved.
Commuter Students: Being a commuter and being away from campus can be very challenging. So Charlotte and Education Officer (and former Commuter Students’ Officer) Jules got together to talk about all the ways you can stay connected virtually. Watch the full video to learn more.
What does self-care mean to you?
A big part of looking after ourselves is self-care, and this comes in many forms. Self-care doesn’t happen overnight, but is something that needs to be learned and practiced.
Read Charlotte’s blog all about learning the language of self-care and self-love.
You can also watch our videos to see how your Student Mentors, and your Student Groups and Officers practice self-care.
The University
Pause @ UOB: If you’re struggling with your mental health and want to talk. Pause offer drop-ins and wellbeing sessions for all students which you can book online.
Wellbeing Officers: They offer support if you’re experiencing personal problems, particularly those relating to your academic work. Find your School’s Wellbeing Officer and don’t hesitate to get in touch.
External Services and Resources:
Samaritans: If you need someone to talk to, the Samaritans offer a free to call service which operates 24 hours a day. You can get in touch by calling: 116 123 or you can email them at jo@samaritans.org
Student Space: Check out this online platform full of useful mental health resources for students, to offer support during the Pandemic.
SANE: Offer specialist emotional support, guidance and information to anyone affected by mental illness. Find out more and get in touch.
Don’t forget the importance of reaching out. Whether it’s you looking for support, or checking in on a friend or team mate to make sure they’re ok – remember to reach out.