We’ve all struggled to connect with other people at one time or another, and university is usually the first step out of the bubble of school or college. Ironically, sometimes the more people you’re surrounded by, the easier it can be to feel lonely!
The small, everyday interactions you have all help build a sense of community and belonging. Connecting with people, in whatever capacity, supports your wellbeing – regardless of the number of people you consider friends. In fact, research shows that social connections are just as important to your overall health as exercise is.
But how often do you wish you could skip the small talk and go straight to being friends with someone? It’s easier to bond over shared interests or experiences, so if you’re already signed up to events, societies or MOVE activities, you’re already on your way. If you’re not, and your study schedule allows, why not try one?
Prefer something quieter?
You don’t need to drink, go clubbing or attend a huge event to meet people. Quieter, low-pressure activities can make it easier to talk naturally and find people with similar interests.
Try a daytime society taster, creative workshop, volunteering session or MOVE activity.
Invite someone from your course or accommodation for a coffee, lunch, a walk or a study session.
Look for alcohol-free events and smaller activities where there is already something to focus on.
If large groups feel overwhelming, aim for one small interaction at a time – saying hello before a lecture still counts.
Tips for small talk
The art of small talk is important though, and a skill that will benefit you in your university, personal and professional life, so here’s our top tips to help:
Ask open-ended questions. Instead of “did you have a good weekend”, you could ask what someone got up to during it – maybe it’ll turn out you did something similar, or they’ve visited that new spot you’ve been meaning to go to.
And then actually listen to the answers! (This one’s important)
If you’re asked questions, avoid super short answers; it’s hard to take a conversation anywhere if you don’t give the other person anything to work with. You don’t need to share anything you’re uncomfortable with, but adding a little extra detail can keep the conversation going a little further than just “good thanks, you?” “yeah good, thanks”
Respect boundaries. For example, if someone clearly doesn’t want to talk about their family, or dating life– don’t push them to.
Don’t take things too personally. You may have caught someone when they just don’t fancy a chat (with anyone), so don’t let this put you off altogether.
Be in the moment. Put away your phone – unless it’s relevant to the topic at hand (hello, cute pet pics)
If you compliment someone, make sure it’s genuine. Compliments are a great way to start a conversation, or simply brighten someone else’s day – but insincere compliments can have the opposite effect.
Make plans with (potential) friends. Especially when everyone is managing a busy workload (or out on placement), it can be easy to shut yourself away a bit. Taking breaks is important though, so factor them into your study schedule and hit two birds with one stone. Had a brief chat with someone after a MOVE class? – ask them if they’re coming to the next one!
If you identify as neurodivergent, then come along to one of the Thinking Differently cafes if you haven’t already.
Finally – don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone, and keep at it! The more you practise, the easier it’ll feel and the more resilient to awkwardness you’ll be. Often the most confident people in the room once felt (or still feel) shy inside!
Connections don’t always develop into friendships, but it’s not all or nothing – a variety of relationships of all different types makes life more fulfilling and interesting.
Between finding your way around your new campus, meeting new people, and navigating student life, keeping on top of your budget can easily slip down the list.
Here’s a quick guide to help you manage your money while enjoying being a UWE Bristol student!
Local supermarkets
Bigger supermarkets are usually cheaper than the smaller corner shops, so it’s worth the walk. 💡Top tip: Lidl and Aldi are usually the cheapest, followed by ASDA, then Sainsbury’s (especially if you’ve got a Nectar card).
Below are some good options near your campus.
Frenchay:
ASDA Filton Superstore – located in the Abbeywood Retail Park (15-20 min walk)
Lidl – located on Fox Den Road (10-15 min walk)
Aldi – located on Fox Den Road (roughly a 15 min walk)
Sainsbury’s – located on Fox Den Road (around a 15 min walk)
Glenside:
Lidl – located on Fishponds Road (20-25 min walk)
Morrisons – located on Fishponds Road (20-25 min walk)
Iceland – Channons Hill (15 min walk)
City Campus:
Aldi – located on North Street (20 min walk)
Sainsbury’s – located on Winterstoke Road (25 min walk)
Getting around Bristol
There are lots of ways to get around, but buses are usually the cheapest and easiest.
First Bus: First Bus is the main bus company in Bristol, it offers several routes connecting UWE campuses with the city centre and surrounding areas. The First Bus app has live bus times and a journey planner. As a student, you can get discounted ticket prices on the app.
M1/M3/M4 Metrobus: Metrobus services (M1, M3, M4) are rapid routes that connect Frenchay Campus to the city centre and Cribbs Causeway. They run late too, which is perfect for getting home after a night out.
You can also hire e-scooters and e-bikes around the city which are great for quick trips and easy to use. Just download the Dott app, ensure you’re signed up for student discount, find a ride nearby, and go 🛴.
Food and drink on campus
Making your own food is always the cheapest option, but we get it, Freshers’ Week is hectic. Check out how to keep your food and drink spend low on Frenchay campus, Glenside Campus and City Campus.
And of course, if you’ve been organised and got yourself to a supermarket, here are some great student-friendly recipes to get you started: BBC Good Food or Mob’s Easy & Cheap Student Recipes.
Moving to a new country is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you settle in and make the most of your experience.
And if you’re starting with us in September 2026, you can join our International and EU student orientation programme, where you can meet other students and get help with settling into university life in the UK.
Get familiar with your local area
Take some time to explore your campus and the amazing city you’ve chosen to study in!
Feeling confident about your surroundings can help you feel at home more quickly. Find out where the nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and transport links are.
Most large supermarkets in Bristol have an international food aisle plus there are lots of international supermarkets across the city!
Manage your finances
Keep track of your spending and remember to plan for essentials such as accommodation, food and travel. Setting up a UK bank account and creating a budget can make daily life much easier. Plus the Blackbullion app is a great way to budget – and enter student competitions!
Build new connections
As you settle in, keep connected with friends and family back home – but be sure to make the most of the opportunity to meet new people.
Don’t be afraid to start conversations! There will be lots of other students feeling how you feel, so why not make the first move and say hi?
Look after your wellbeing
As you settle into new routines, make sure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep and regular exercise. It might sound obvious, but these will help you settle in and feel your best.
If you’re feeling homesick or stressed, we recommend the Wisdom app. It’s free to download and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s here for when you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing. You can talk to a counsellor via WhatsApp or a call.
Embrace your new home
Trying local food, exploring nearby attractions and learning about UK traditions can make your experience more rewarding.
At the same time, celebrate and share your own culture with others – diversity is one of the things that makes uni life so special.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself
Settling into life in the UK will take some time and that’s ok. Pace yourself and enjoy it!
If you’re feeling nervous about budgeting while you’re at uni – don’t panic! Here are some simple things you can do to save money while still making the most of everything that UWE Bristol has to offer.
1. Start with a budget
A basic budget can help you figure out where your money is going and where you might be able to save. Download the Blackbullion app (free for UWE students) for tools to help you track spending, set goals and build your financial confidence. Or try Savethestudent’s free money cheat sheet if you prefer a quick guide.
Ordering food or eating out can be fun, but it quickly adds up. Cooking at home even a few times a week can save you money. Try planning your meals, making a shopping list, and sticking to it. Cooking in bulk or sharing food shops with friends can help too. Mob Kitchen’s student recipes are a useful place to find easy, affordable ideas.
4. Travel for less
Public transport is usually cheaper than taxis. UWE Bristol students can get discounted bus fares through the First Bus app. National Express and FlixBus coaches also serve Frenchay Campus. If you travel by train, a 16-25 or 26-30 Railcard gives you a third off eligible fares and may pay for itself after only a few journeys.
5. Buy second-hand
Before buying something new, check out second-hand options. UWE’s library has textbooks you can borrow, while Biblio, AbeBooks and eBay can be useful for used books. For kitchen equipment, furniture or clothes, try charity shops, reputable resale platforms or the Sustainability Hub at Frenchay.
6. Limit subscription services
Music, streaming, gaming and app subscriptions can quietly add up. Check what you actually use and cancel anything you don’t. Look for a student plan where it offers genuine value, and check the rules before sharing any account.
7. Check whether you need a TV licence
You need a TV Licence to watch or record live television on any channel or service, or to use BBC iPlayer, on any device. You don’t need one if you only watch other on-demand streaming services and never watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer. The rules can depend on your tenancy and where you watch, so use the official student TV Licence guidance to check your situation before paying.
8. Avoid first-month money traps
Relying on convenience shops for every food shop – compare prices and plan a larger shop where practical.
Ordering frequent takeaways because your kitchen is not set up – keep a few simple, low-cost meals ready for busy days.
Keeping free trials and subscriptions after the introductory period – add the cancellation date to your calendar as soon as you sign up.
Buying everything new before you know what you genuinely need – check what your accommodation provides, borrow where possible and buy gradually.
Spending your student finance as if it were a monthly payment – work out how many weeks it needs to cover and set a weekly limit.
9. Make the most of free or low cost events
There’s plenty happening at UWE Bristol that costs little or nothing, including workshops, socials, creative activities and wellbeing events. Check the Student Life webpages, Students’ Union website and UWE Bristol events. Many Bristol museums and galleries are also free.
A new digital platform designed to make it easier to access support and manage everyday university life has launched for students.
MY STUDENT LIFE brings together a range of resources, information and support services in one place, helping you find what you need, when you need it. Through the platform, you can access guidance relating to your course and timetable, disability support, wellbeing, money matters, coaching options and much more.
The new platform also allows you to track enquiries you have submitted and find answers to frequently asked questions, giving you greater visibility and control over your student experience. By bringing key services together in a single location, MY STUDENT LIFE makes it easier to navigate university life and access support quickly.
Over time MY STUDENT LIFE will become a central hub, allowing you to access different types of support and to book appointments with Student Support Advisers and Student Experience Coaches.
MY STUDENT LIFE sits alongside MYUWE which remains the place to enrol, update your personal details and view your timetable.
From 3 August 2026 you can log in and start exploring.
The team behind the platform is already exploring additional features and functionality, with further developments planned in response to student feedback and changing needs throughout the academic year. If you would like to get involved in user experience testing and feedback sessions, email: ux@uwe.ac.uk
The start of the academic year can be a busy time as you get settled into student life at UWE Bristol.
This handy guide features some of the most commonly-asked questions to support new and returning students. And remember, if you still need an answer to your question, submit an enquiry on My Student Life.
After you enrol in MYUWE, you’ll be able to access your timetable. Once enrolled and providing timetables have been published, they will show in MYUWE 3 working days later. Your Starting Block timetable will appear automatically.
New students: If you’ve uploaded a photo to MYUWE, your card will be ready 2 working days later from the campus you study at, unless otherwise advised.
I’m confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 2S706, then you’re looking for 2 – Level 2; S – S Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 706 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this campus map.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in D Block – 1D11.
Life at City Campus 🎨
Where do I catch a bus to town?
We recommend catching buses from Blackmoors Lane rather than anywhere else as they are much more frequent there.
How do I get between Bower Ashton, Arnolfini and Spike Island?
There’s no UWE parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island, so you might want to consider public transport, cycling or walking. Check out this handy cycling map for guidance. If you need help getting around Bower Ashton you can use this map or our interactive map.
Can I park at Bower Ashton?
There’s very limited parking at Bower. If you’re going to park here, you need a permit. If the car park is full, you can try Ashton Court just up the hill (although that’s not free). There’s no UWE Bristol car parking at Arnolfini or Spike Island – you’ll need to use public car parks.
If I have a question about something where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. The Bower Ashton one is B Block, opposite the Art Shop. There’s also one on the fourth floor of the Arnolfini.
How can I print?
You can print ordinary things like A4 black and white via Pharos. You’ll be given £15 on your account at the start of the year.
If you want to print something more specialist, visit the Digital Print Bureau in 0C008.
Where can I use specialist software?
There are loads of opportunities for you to access specialist software, depending on what you need it for. This includes the library, and specialist computer suites in D Block, G Block and B block at Bower Ashton, as well as software at the Arnolfini and Spike Island.
Where can I buy art supplies?
Go wild in the Art Shop! You get an £80 materials allowance each year and you can use it at the Art Shop or the Digital Design Studio.
I’ve lost something – where might it be?
Everything makes its way to the Security office in F Block, check here first! Or email uwecard@uwe.ac.uk to find out if something is there.
Life at Glenside 🏥
I’m so confused by the room numbers – how do I find the right room?
If it says on your timetable you’re going to room 1F06, then you’re looking for 1 – Level 1; F – F Block (all blocks have a block letter outside the entrance); 06 – room number. If you have any problems finding your way around, use this map.
How do I order my placement name badge?
New student: If you’ve completed your online registration, a placement name badge will be ordered for you and it’ll be issued at one of your teaching sessions before you start your simulation skills sessions.
Returning student: If you need a replacement placement name badge, email the team and they’ll order one for you and email you when your badge is ready to collect.
How do I order my placement uniform?
If you’ve completed your online registration in MYUWE, you’ll be emailed details of how to order your placement uniform during induction week. If you’ve registered and haven’t received the email, contact the Information Point.
Are there showers and changing rooms at Glenside?
Yes! These can be found in 1E06 and 1E09. You can ask Glenside Reception staff for a code to access the rooms – you’ll need to show your student ID card.
Are there student lockers at Glenside?
Lockers for short term use are available in the changing rooms in 1E06 and 1E09. To hire a locker for long term use, please email travel.plan@uwe.ac.uk to request one.
I’ve just started my course at Glenside – I applied for the NHS LSF Training Grant, when will I receive my first payment?
You’ll receive it in November, if:
you started your course in September
you’ve completed your student online registration.
We’ll confirm your attendance to the NHSBSA in early November to release the funds to you. It can take up to 10 working days for payment to be processed once we’ve confirmed your attendance.
I have a timetabled teaching session in room 0SC014 at Glenside – where is it?
0SC014 is located at the back of the Glenside Student Centre (old Student Union) building. It is the big brown wooden building located near car park 10.
How do I contact the Accommodation Office at Glenside?
Glenside Accommodation Service office is located near the Hub in 1H29. Reach them here.
How can I contact Occupational Health Service at Glenside?
If I have a question about something, where can I go?
You can find an answer or submit an enquiry on My Student Life. Staff at our InfoPoint will also be happy to help you. You can find it in Glenside Library in D Block.
Your Course 🎓
I already feel like my course isn’t right for me? Can I switch?
Please don’t rush into a decision, it sometimes takes a while to settle in to university life. First, chat to your programme leader or your academic personal tutor and explain to them what you’re struggling with. They can offer support and guidance. If you’d like more in-depth advice about your options, you can get in touch with a Student Support Adviser.
The Students’ Union runs a student rep system, and ideally look for one student rep for every 25 students on your year of study on your course. They are usually chosen at the start of the academic year, so speak to your programme leader about this if you haven’t already received information about it.
I’m struggling with my course? I feel like I’m behind with the work and need some support.
Use the resources of the UWE Bristol Student Money Service. They have plenty of online information as well as an enquiry form to support and advise you. There are additional resources on Money and Finance, including an enquiry form for tuition fee issues.
My rent is really high and I can’t afford it/I’m struggling with money. What can I do?
Firstly we advise students to apply for all the funding they are eligible for from Student Finance and then apply for the Student Support Fund. Many students also choose to take on part-time work alongside their studies, and sign up to Blackbullion for free money education.
I haven’t managed to find anywhere to live. Who can help me?
Don’t panic – there’s lots of help out there to make sure you find somewhere to live. The Students’ Union can support you, so check out their advice pages.
I’m struggling with my housemates and I really want to move.
I need some help for my mental health. Where can I get the support I need?
If you’re struggling with your mental health and wellbeing then please don’t hesitate in reaching out for support. Download the Wisdom app, which offers live chat and video calls with counsellors. Also check out our Wellbeing Service webpage which includes a range of self-help resources and guidance.
I’m concerned about my drug or alcohol use at the moment, and really feel like I could do with some help.
UWE Bristol does not condone or condemn the use of drugs including alcohol; we are focused on providing students with the knowledge to be safe and feel supported. We operate a policy of harm reduction that prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of our students and wider community. We have a free Drugs and Alcohol Service if you would like support from a professional.
I’m looking for support following sexual assault?
We have an Anti-Sexual Violence Service here at UWE Bristol which provides a non-judgemental, inclusive and confidential safe space for you to seek support if you have experienced sexual trauma of any kind, even if you don’t want to report something.
Disability Support 🫱🏼🫲🏾
I have a disability and feel nervous about how this will be managed during my time at university.
Please don’t be nervous, there is a whole range of support available to you. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you have disclosed your disability to the Disability Service. This Disability Support Guide covers everything you need to know.
I am neurodivergent, and would like to know what support is available to me.
I want to start thinking about my future career, as well as looking for part-time work or internships while I study. Who can help with this?
There are so many opportunities available here for you at UWE Bristol:
You can find part-time and term-time roles that work around your studies by visiting the JobShop.
InfoHub is your first stop for careers advice, job listings, and help finding internships.
I want to start thinking about my career in the creative industries – how can I do this?
Learn how to talk about your creative skills and experience in a way employers understand. We offer regular sessions to explore freelancing, running your own business, building your CV, covering letters, and confidence. UWE Careers & Enterprise Padlet
Use our Showcase website to develop your online presence and portfolio.
We talk a lot about mental and physical health. What about spiritual health?
Today we’re turning our attention to looking after your soul.
Look in
Student life can be very busy, with studying, socialising and part-time work. It can be easy to ‘just get on with it’ and not take time to reflect on what’s happening in your life – the good, the bad and the ugly.
Make sure you take time to take stock. Don’t let life just happen to you.
Take some time out to justthink. Some people find journalling helps – either with free text, lists, mind maps or drawing.
Here are some pointers to get you thinking:
Where am I growing at the moment?
What is ‘giving’ to me and what is ‘taking’ from me?
Are the decisions I’m making now ones I’ll be happy with in one, two- or five-years’ time?
Or you can reflect with apps – there are some good ones available.
Look out
Being linked to a community is good for the soul.
A recent survey in the UK found that people who are part of teams, hobby clubs, community or religious groups are 24% more likely to report feeling happy.
UWE has loads of student societies for a broad range of interests and if there’s not one that you like the look of, grab some like-minded students and set one up!
Volunteering is also good for the soul.
A national charity reported that 92% of volunteers agreed that volunteering had helped their mental health.
Being in green spaces reduces stress, anxiety and depression by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone). Being in nature can help us to put our problems in perspective, without us even realising that’s what’s happening!
Being in nature can also foster a sense of mindfulness, grounding us in the present moment – not rushing ahead – and encouraging reflection.
Not only that – nature can inspire a sense of awe, connection and peace. We feel things we don’t feel when we’re indoors or on our phones.
Faith, religion and spirituality
Regardless of your belief, our campus Chaplaincy team are here for you; whether you have an established faith or want to explore faith and spirituality.
This is what student Bip said about Chaplaincy:
“Chaplaincy has been a great space for me to get out my thoughts ranging from religious struggle to bereavement. It’s a space that allows you to organise your thoughts, problems and whatever you may be dealing with and having someone like the Chaplain listen and provide a fresh perspective on things can go a long way. I recommend it to anyone, whether you’re religious, atheistic or anything in between.”
Research across psychology, sociology and health sciences has found that being religious or engaging in spirituality can be beneficial in a range of ways.
Prayer, meditation and rituals provide calm, structure, and coping mechanisms.
Religious faith often increases endurance and helps people cope with illness and grief.
Belief in a higher person or purpose can bring hope, comfort and a sense of meaning.
Look after yourself
We want you to flourish at uni – to be healthy and happy and grow during your time here.
Priya Dashini Selvanathan is currently studying a Master’s in Health Psychology and is a Mature Student Advocate.
My idea of winter came straight from the movies, picturing myself sitting in a nice, cosy café, people watching and enjoying the slow, cosy pace that it brings along. However, as someone who has been living in a tropical country like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, my perception of experiencing my first winter in Bristol was far from ideal.
I had to deal with homesickness, staying on top of back-to-back deadlines and on top of that learning the art of layering and dressing for the cold. My energy plunged with the temperature, my mood was consistently low, and the constant stress was a physical weight—I finally understood the reality of seasonal depression.
Looking back, one thing that helped me survive my first winter in the UK was the connection with peers, and engaging with free events available at the University, as well as free events around Bristol.
My top 3 tips are:
Connection It is easy to stay in and feel overwhelmed to venture out. I noticed that slowly stepping out of my comfort zone and interacting with my coursemates and other international students helped me feel less lonely. I arranged a few coffee meet-up sessions that turned into friendships that I now cherish. Forming connections and friendships abroad in a foreign country is not an easy task, but I learnt that if I don’t put myself out there and try, I will never know and be limited to my fears.
Movement Hibernation mood hits hard during winter months. I was either spending time staring at my screen completing assignments or mostly hibernating in bed. This routine made me feel sluggish and made me miss home even more. I realised that by using the UWE Move App, I could force myself to book some exercise classes like yoga and climbing. These classes not only help me get out of the house, but they also greatly improve my energy levels and mood. I noticed that I tend to feel much better after engaging in some movement.
Perspective A shift in perspective occurred when I finished reading the book “ Wintering” by Katherine May. The book highlights a lot about embracing winter and noticing how the cold teaches us to slow down and focus inward more towards ourselves. I learnt that I have no control over the weather, but I do have control over how I respond to it and adapt to it. I started having a cosy night time routine that I looked forward to, where I would read a thriller novel and have a hot cup of camomile tea, and end the night with a simple skin care routine.
It is not going to be easy experiencing your first winter abroad, but do know that there is a wide array of support available. Feel free to reach out to our student advocates on Teams for a friendly chat.
How to join the CHSS Advocate Programme
Interested in being part of this supportive community? Whether you’re looking for peer support, a place to share your experiences, or simply want to connect with others, the CHSS Advocate Programme is here for you. To join a group or attend one of our meetups, follow the link to our online space and sign up:
The University has updated its Trans and Non-Binary Policy in line with the Supreme Court Ruling in April 2025.
Thank you again to everyone who took the time to share their views on this topic. The feedback we received was thoughtful, detailed and personal. It has helped us better understand the emotional and practical implications of the updates to the policy, and has informed several actions we’ve already taken, and will continue to take, to support our community.
Below we outline what you told us and what we’ve done in response:
How are students protected from discrimination while on placement?
We provide pre-placement guidance and checklists for students, outlining expectations, rights and reporting routes. We also have Support During Your Placement resources. If you experience inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour you are encouraged to use Report + Support; a confidential reporting tool.
How will the University prevent harassment and ensure safety for LGBTQIA+ students using facilities?
We’ve communicated clearly to both students and staff that no-one is expected to monitor or police the use of facilities. Discrimination in any form is not tolerated. We’ve outlined our community’s expectations, grounded in dignity, compassion and respect, and we ask everyone to actively uphold these values to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all.
You can use Report + Support if you do experience or witness inappropriate behaviour.
How will accessible toilets be reassigned? Reassigning accessible toilets as gender-neutral reduces access for disabled people and risks outing trans individuals.
Only one accessible toilet has been temporarily reassigned within Northavon House as part of an interim arrangement. Longer-term provision is planned to ensure there are sufficient gender-neutral and accessible toilets within this building.
Are there gender-neutral toilets at Arnolfini?
Gender-neutral toilets are available in Arnolfini on floors 0 and 2 and in the café.
Are there plans for more gender-neutral facilities at Glenside?
Refurbishment plans include improvements to H Block at Glenside.
How were the policy changes shared and communicated, and could they have been shared earlier?
Meetings were held with the Vice-Chancellor and interested staff groups in July before any policy changes were made. Communications were shaped collaboratively with trade unions, staff networks and the Students’ Union. We will continue to engage openly and actively listen to affected communities to ensure that future changes are inclusive, transparent and aligned with our shared values.
Why was the new trans policy rolled out so abruptly?
These changes were required by law, so the university needed to implement them promptly to remain compliant. The changes to the policy were implemented six months later to ensure students and staff had up to date and correct policy information for the new academic year.
Has the university engaged trans and non-binary students with the policy changes?
The University did not consult on the policy changes as we were required to comply with the law. Therefore, there was no option for consultation on the changes to the policy. During the Equality Impact Analysis process, we engaged staff and student groups to understand the impacts of these changes. We also offered wellbeing sessions, workshops, and held student drop-ins to ensure voices were heard. Support was signposted throughout, and our aim was to listen and respond to concerns about how these changes might affect individuals.
How can the university ensure that inclusivity is considered when planning field trips for LGBTQIA+ students?
To keep everyone safe and supported, the university asks that all field trips have a completed risk assessment. This includes considering any potential risks and planning reasonable adjustments for people with protected characteristics. If students would like help discussing their adjustments, Student Support Advisers are available to provide guidance and support. Single-sex accommodation is sometimes asked about, but field trips are not a blanket requirement. These will be addressed on a case-by-case basis through the risk assessment process.
Support and wellbeing
Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated at UWE Bristol. If you have any concerns, please use Report and Support, which is designed to handle concerns confidentially and respectfully. If you need support, please access our wellbeing support services.
We want to reaffirm that everyone in our university community deserves to feel respected, supported and safe, especially when perspectives differ. We are committed to ensuring all our students are treated with dignity and compassion.
We will continue to engage with student societies, staff networks, trade unions, and other groups to ensure that the University is a respectful and inclusive place for everyone.
I was excited and looking forward to my experience studying in the UK. Before enrolling in my course, I had the opportunity to get on a Teams call with my module leader and find out more about the course. This helped me feel more certain in my decision to move from my comfort zone in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to Bristol.
The journey was exciting, but it brought its own set of challenges; the main one was experiencing my first winter in the UK, as well as dealing with loneliness and homesickness. I did not anticipate how isolating and difficult it could be. The familiar faces, comfort foods, and navigating an 8-hour time difference from my home country were overwhelming. I expected to feel adjusted and settled in Bristol within a month, but looking back, that was an unrealistic timeline to set, and it only made me feel even more out of place.
As a mature international student, adjusting to academics in a new country and leaving my role as a full-time counsellor was challenging. In wanting to push myself out of my comfort zone, I attended various UWE events, including the Global café team’s weekly coffee session that occurs every Wednesday from 12:00-13:00. I found the team friendly and welcoming. In attending the coffee session, I connected with other international students, shared experiences and challenges that I encountered and formed a sense of belonging.
In addition to attending my classes, I began following the UWE student union and other relevant social media accounts to stay up to date on free activities for students. The UWE Move App quickly became one of my favourite apps, and I was impressed by the wide range of free sports opportunities available. When looming assignment deadlines began to cause stress, I decided to book a climbing session through the app. This experience proved invaluable for my mental well-being. The climbing instructor was encouraging and supportive, and I enjoyed meeting other students who shared similar interests. I made it a priority to attend several climbing sessions as I was working through my dissertation, and it really helped me feel overall better physically and mentally.
My biggest takeaway for mature international students is not to be afraid to try and explore all the free events and activities available for students. Finance can be a stressor, but there are many free events hosted by the student life team, the global café team, UWE sports, and the student union that will truly enhance your student experience at UWE. In looking for a change of scenery, I love doing assignments at the Bristol Central Library, walking up the steep roads of Park Street, and just reading a book at a nearby café. In my role now as a mature student advocate, I am looking forward to hosting events and activities for students to feel a sense of belonging and have a safe space to engage and interact with other students.
How to join the CHSS Advocate Programme
Interested in being part of this supportive community? Whether you’re looking for peer support, a place to share your experiences, or simply want to connect with others, the CHSS Advocate Programme is here for you. To join a group or attend one of our meetups, follow the link to our online space and sign up:
