Support in troubling times

We understand these are challenging times where the international political climate may impact on the wellbeing and experience of students. In light of this, we want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the help and support available to affected students.

Mental health support

Information on mental and emotional wellbeing support can be found on our Student Directory. If you would like to have a friendly chat with the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service to discuss your wellbeing, you can contact the team by email.

The University counselling service is also on hand to support our students, with Validium providing a safe, confidential space to talk and explore how you are feeling. If you would like to refer yourself for counselling, complete the online referral form, and you will then receive an email to explain how to access your telephone assessment. Students can use the Student Wellbeing Support Line too, a 24-hour phone service by Validium; call any time on 0800 970 5020, or +44 141 271 7168 if outside the UK.

Silvercloud is an online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) resource offering a range of programmes on mental health and wellbeing, and it is free to anyone studying at the University of Essex. Students can also access Togetherall, a safe, online, peer-to-peer mental health community that empowers members to seek support anonymously and offers help 24/7. To sign up, simply use your student email address to register as a member of a university or college.

If you would like to chat to our Faith Centre team, you can get in touch with them by email. The SU Advice team is also here to support and advise students, including those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Financial help

Advice on other student matters like finances is available from our Student Services Hub; our Funding team can also help, and our cost of living webpage shows all the support on offer. If you are facing financial difficulty, you can apply for our Hardship Fund.

Asylum and legal advice

For students who want to explore the possibility of seeking protection or asylum, the UK government provides information and advice. The UK Council for International Student Affairs also has a wide range of support links.  Our University also offers free legal advice and signposting through the Essex Law Clinic.

We're proud to be a University of Sanctuary for refugees and asylum seekers, meaning we provide access to a range of support including the opportunity to have a named Wellbeing Adviser within the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service.