Student Helpdesk

Having a sense of belonging during your studies is a fundamental part of achieving positive outcomes in a range of areas including but not limited to attainment, academic achievement and wellbeing.

There are a number of ways you can support yourself to improve your sense of belonging. Ideas include:

• Get out in the local area. Adjust to your local surroundings and get to know what is around you. This might include seeking out local coffee shops, retail areas or areas for recreation
• Be sociable. This doesn’t have to mean making friends or spending time with friends. It might include talking with others, joining a club based on an interest or spending time in the local area and not just in your accommodation
• Get to know your place of study. What is available for you to access on site? Who the people are that you might need to go to should you need course related support, academic support or welfare related support?
• Consider what you need personally during your studies. For example, do you need to make your accommodation more familiar or more comfortable by incorporating things from home like photo’s or your favourite things?  Can you support yourself by engaging in personal interests and focusing on what you know supports your wellbeing? Self-care is important and can be easily overlooked

You can also access support, information and advice through HE Health Assured which is offered independently of the college. You can also access free counselling through HE Health Assured and download their free app ‘Wisdom.’  Call 0800 028 3766. This line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.