Category: Wellbeing

How to rest after exam season 

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Getting to the other side of exam and assessment season should feel liberating, right?  You might expect to feel a wave of relief now that it’s all over, but more often than not, you’re left feeling exhausted and a bit flat.   

After an intense period of pulling all-nighters, caffeine-fuelled cramming, and some questionable ‘meals’, it’s understandable if your mind and body feel out of sync. 

We’re here to remind you that you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to feel this way and wonder “now what?” 

As things start to slow down, it can be hard to know what to do next. So, we’re sharing some simple ways to help you rest, reset and feel like yourself again.

You need to rest, but first…

Celebrate the win! Completing an exam is a big achievement, so take a moment to recognise the effort and commitment you’ve put in (go you!) 🥳 

When exams finish, the stress hormones that keep you alert and focused can stick around for a while. This can leave you feeling worn-out and emotionally depleted. It may seem obvious, but rest is crucial to recovery.  

So, give yourself permission to rest.  

When we think of rest, our first thought is to sleep or take a nap. While these can work for some people, it can also come in the form of:

  • Gentle movement – this could be walking or a yoga class with your free MOVE membership 
  • Practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises (in for 5, out for 5, repeat) 
  • Getting lost in a good book, game or watching a TV show (even if it means re-starting your favourite one) 
  • Spending time outdoors and away from a screen.
Woman walking in nature park forest and breathing fresh air

Reconnect with the basics 

During exam season, it’s easy for everything else to fall away. We get it – we’ve all been there. Now’s the time to reconnect with the things that you’ve put on hold and the people that make you feel good. 

It doesn’t need to be anything big. The key is to focus on something that takes your mind away from anything study related. Something as simple as grabbing a coffee or going for a short walk with a friend works. Just step away from the exam talk. 

If you need inspiration for something to do, there’s lots of free events in Bristol to check out.  

And if basic things like movement and nutrition have taken a back seat, try bringing them back into your daily routine too.  

After a busy or stressful period, it’s easy for healthy habits to slip. But small, consistent actions can make a real difference to how you feel. Eating a balanced diet helps restore energy levels, while moving your body can reduce tension. Start small – a nourishing meal, some fresh air or a gentle stretch. Keep things simple to support your body as it recovers.  

Reflect and reset 

An important part of the process is to step back and reflect. What do you think went well? What might you do different next time? This can help you to stay motivated and come up with a clear plan to achieve the next goal. 

Sometimes the exam doesn’t go as planned. That’s okay. It’s natural to feel disappointed, but it’s important not to get caught up in negative self-talk. 

If you don’t get the results you were hoping for and you’re worried about resits, we have guidance for what it all means.  

University isn’t easy but you are here because you are capable. This is a chance to adjust your approach and try again. That could be switching up your revision plan, asking for help from a Student Experience Coach, or brushing up on your study skills. 

Read our full blog post for the resources, services and advice on hand to get you through resits. 

If this year felt especially hard 

We have a range of resources and a team of people here to support you if you’re struggling. Whatever you’re going through, help is available.  

Get instant support with the Wisdom app or find support that feels right for you. 

Download the Wisdom app logo

Staying Connected: Tackling Loneliness Over the Summer

Author Student Communications | Posted on

For many students, summer is something to look forward to; a break from deadlines, lectures and early starts. But for others, it can feel somewhat difficult.

Whether you’re staying in Bristol while friends head home, or returning to a family environment that feels a bit complicated, loneliness can show up in ways you might not expect.

If you’re staying in Bristol this summer

A quieter campus and fewer familiar faces can feel isolating. But Bristol is still very much alive over the summer and there are ways to stay connected, often without spending much money.

Find low-pressure ways to meet people
Look for relaxed, drop-in style activities where there’s no expectation to already know anyone.

        You could also try:

        • Board game cafés like Chance & Counters (regular social events)
        • Creative spaces like Spike Island (free exhibitions and a calm place to spend time)
        • Cinema and café spaces like Watershed (often host talks and screenings you can attend solo)
        • The Wardrobe Theatre (affordable leading fringe theatre venue in Old Market)

        Make the most of Bristol’s outdoor spaces
        Getting outside can help break up long days and lift your mood.

        • Clifton Downs – ideal for a walk, a picnic or just sitting in the sun
        • Brandon Hill – a quieter green space with views over the city
        • Harbourside – a good place for a walk, coffee, or sitting by the water

        Stay connected to university support
        Even outside of term time, our support services are still there if you need them.

        Create your own routine
        Without the structure of lectures, days can blur together. Try building small activities into your week. For example:

        • A regular study or job-search block
        • A weekly trip to a café (Stokes Croft and Park Street have lots of great options)
        • A set time for exercise or a walk

        Do something that gets you around people (without pressure)
        Even being around others can help you feel less isolated, even if you don’t know them personally. For example:

        • Visiting Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
        • Spending time at St Nicholas Market
        • Sitting with a book or laptop at a busy café

        If you’re going home (and it feels complicated)

        Going home isn’t always a simple or comforting experience. Family dynamics, expectations, or feeling like you’ve changed while everything else hasn’t can all contribute to anxiety or loneliness.

        Set realistic expectations
        It’s okay if things don’t feel perfect. Try to avoid putting pressure on yourself to have a ‘perfect summer’ or to fix long-standing dynamics in a short time.

        Keep part of your independence
        Maintaining small elements of your university routine; whether that’s going for a solo coffee, continuing hobbies, or setting aside time for yourself can help you feel grounded.

        Stay digitally connected
        Regular messages, voice notes or video calls with friends in Bristol or elsewhere can remind you that your support network is still there and that these periods of time are just temporary

        Small steps that can help, wherever you are
        Loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone, it’s about feeling disconnected. The good news is that even small actions can help rebuild that sense of connection.

        Reach out to existing or old friends in your hometown
        Sending a simple message like “How are you getting on?” can often lead to more connection than you expect.

        Get outside
        Spending time outdoors has been linked to improved mood and reduced stress: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/nature-and-mental-health).

        Limit comparison
        Social media can make it seem like everyone else is having an amazing summer. Remember, social media isn’t real: you’re only seeing a highlight reel.

        Know when to ask for support
        If loneliness starts to feel overwhelming or persistent, it’s important to speak to someone.

        Final thought

        Summer can look very different for everyone. Whether you’re staying in Bristol, heading home, or somewhere in between, your experience is valid.

        Connection doesn’t have to be big or dramatic; sometimes it’s just one message, one conversation, or one small plan that helps.

        And if this summer feels tough, that doesn’t mean it will always feel that way.

        Let’s talk about women’s health

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        Women’s health is political. You only have to glance at the news to see debates and discussions on a whole range of issues directly related to women’s health – reproductive rights, maternity care, the gaps in research and funding.  

        All of this means there’s a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding out there. That’s why it’s so important that you do your own research to look after yourself, prioritise your health and advocate for yourself. 

        To mark International Women’s Day 2026 we’ve pulled together some of the most important topics that you should be thinking about. 

        What can you do to look after your health? 

        Register with a GP

        It sounds simple, but getting registered with a GP is often something people don’t think about until they need to book an appointment. UWE has a health centre which is open to all our students, no matter which campus you study at. 

        Contraception and sexual health

        This is an area where there’s a huge amount of misinformation online. Protecting yourself from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections is so important, and if you have questions or concerns then it’s vital you get your information from a valid, qualified source. Firstly, speaking to your GP or surgery nurse is an obvious start, but there are reputable websites where you can find out more information. 

        • The Lowdown: A Women’s Health Review Platform – people rate their opinions on different methods and discuss their own experiences on certain types of contraception. 
        • Contraception Choices – this has a really nice visual tool which shows the likelihood of pregnancy on all methods of contraception. The information on this site is also approved by the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare so the information is trustworthy. 
        Periods and hormones

        The NHS recommends tracking your cycle to understand what your hormones are doing each month. Not only does this allow you to get in tune with your body, but it helps your notice any changes which could be cause for concern or further investigation. Knowledge is power! You can use apps to track your cycle (just be aware of how your data might be being used) or you can keep it simple by making notes in your phone calendar, or even an old-school paper diary. 

        Routine NHS screenings and vaccinations

        There is a programme of routine health screenings and vaccinations which is designed to both protect you from illnesses and also ensure early detection of disease.  

        • All children are offered the HPV vaccine at age 12/13, as it reduces the risk of you getting human papillomavirus, which can lead to an increased risk of certain types of cancer. You can check your vaccine status through your GP and arrange to catch up with any you have missed. 
        • From the age of 25 you will be invited for cervical screening, which checks the health of your cervix and helps prevent cervical cancer. 
        • Check your breasts. As with all health-related issues, knowing what is normal for your body is very important. The NHS recommends that everyone checks their breasts or chest around once a month, so you have the best possible chance of noticing any changes. 
        Drugs and alcohol

        UWE Bristol’s specialist drug and alcohol practitioner Becky Risley says that due to the male-dominant focus of most drugs research, the evidence on the specific risks for women remains limited, meaning harm reduction advice may not always fully apply to them. However, we do know that women typically reach high blood-alcohol concentrations than men, and appear more vulnerable to MDMA-related complications.

        • This makes it especially important that you measure your dose, stay hydrated and avoid feeling pressured into keeping up with others. 
        • In our recent survey, 26% of female students reported using drugs occasionally, compared to 18% of male students. The good news is that these students told us they were more likely to engage with harm reduction advice and seek support when they need it. 
        • Check out the UWE Drug and Alcohol webpage for information and guidance on reducing risks. 
        Mental health and emotional wellbeing

        Around one in five women have a mental health condition, and there are some societal issues which can put women at risk of poorer mental health than men. All of this means it is important you have awareness of your own mental health, the things you can do to look after yourself, and how you can access support when you need it. 

        • The Wisdom app is your go-to place if you’re feeling stressed, anxious or you just need a little extra support. You can chat with a qualified counsellor anytime through live chat, video call, phone or WhatsApp, and there’s also self-help tools. 
        • Every Mind Matters is an NHS campaign focusing on mental health, and includes specific advice and support for young people. 

        Make time for your soul

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        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 just think. 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.

        Giving out gives back to you!

        Why not check out the range of volunteering opportunities we can connect you with?

        Look up

        Nature

        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.

        Make sure you’re making time for yourself in every way possible and reach out if you need a little extra support!

        Tips for Surviving the UK winter: Guide for International students

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        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:

        1. 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.
        2. 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.
        3. 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:

        For more information, please email the Widening Participation Team: CHSS.WPTeam@uwe.ac.uk

        You Said, We Did: Trans and Non-Binary Policy Update

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        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.

        Are students able to use their chosen names?

        Yes, students can continue to update their preferred name across university systems directly or with support from Information Points or Student Support Advisers.

        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.

        Healthy relationships at university

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        For many students, university life offers a lot of new experiences, including new relationships.

        You will meet new romantic partners, new course mates, flatmates or new friends — as well as experiencing extended time away from old friends, partners or family members. You might also be living abroad for the first time or discovering your identity or sexuality. 

        Relationships can be complicated. Understanding the foundations of a healthy relationship will help you establish positive connections and ensure you feel comfortable, safe and well supported.

        Remember, relationships aren’t meant to make you feel bad. You have the right to be respected, be comfortable and be happy in any relationship.

        Last year, for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women we spoke to you, our students, to find out what you thought were ‘green flags’ and ‘red flags’ in relationships – behaviour that was appreciated and supported, and behaviour that was unacceptable or abusive.

        Your suggestions for ‘green flag’ behaviour in relationships included:

        • Good communication
        • Asks for consent 
        • Caring
        • Emotionally intelligent 
        • Empathetic
        • Respectful
        • Supportive
        • Trusting and trustworthy
        • Allows room for independence and self sufficiency
        • Willingness to learn and work through problems

        And your examples of ‘red flag’ behaviours in relationships included:

        • Aggression or anger 
        • Control
        • Gaslighting into desired behaviour
        • Disrespect
        • Jealousy
        • Possessiveness
        • Judgment 
        • Deception 
        • Manipulation
        • Narcissism
        • Obsessiveness
        • Sexism 
        • Violence 
        • Poor communication 
        • Lack of empathy
        • Lack of consent 

        What to do if you think you’re in an unhealthy relationship

        Well done for recognising this. This is often the hardest part! Here’s some steps to help if you think you’re in an unhealthy relationship: 

        • If you’re ready to talk, speak to a friend, family member, member of staff or someone you trust about how you’ve been feeling.
        • If you feel like you’re in physical danger, call 999 if it is safe to do so. If you’re on campus, dial 9999 from a telephone connected to the University network to reach your campus control room.
        • Reach out to one of support services, wellbeing services or book an appointment with our Anti-Sexual Violence Service.
        • Contact a helpline or support services, some are listed under ‘External resources’ at the bottom of our Healthy Relationships page.
        • Use our report and support tool to flag something that makes you feel upset or uncomfortable.
        • Reach out to the Student’s Union Advice Centre if you need help finding new halls of residence or private accommodation, or email the UWE Bristol accommodation service.
        • Build a support network of people you trust and want the best for you.
        • Try and regain some independence from the relationship.
        • Prioritise your health and wellbeing.
        • Don’t let this experience impact other relationships. Think about what went wrong, what you would do differently and what you want new relationships to look like. Create new boundaries or set new expectations for the future in order to maintain your happiness.

        How to support someone in an unhealthy relationship

        Supporting someone you believe is in an unhealthy relationship should be approached carefully. You may be their only advocate, so try not to force them to do anything or shame them in any way.  It is important to remind them that they deserve to feel happy and safe in their relationship and that any form of abuse is not acceptable.

        Listen to them and their experiences and try and see the whole picture. Let them know you are there for them and they can trust you. Leaving toxic relationships, ending friendships or making the decision to end contact with family members are all huge, emotional decisions. The person may need time to adjust, come to terms with the situation and even see the scenario the way you do. Help them to seek professional help in the form of local charities, helplines or encourage them to contact UWE’s wellbeing and support services. You’re doing a great thing, well done. 

        Check out our healthy behaviours web page for more guidance and external resources, as well as our wellbeing services.

        Recipe for a good mental health chat

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        If you’re someone who struggles with your mental health then it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

        Recent research by Student Minds revealed that one in four students have a diagnosed mental health issue, and 30 per cent said their mental health had got worse since starting university.

        It’s not hard to see why that might be the case. Living away from home for the first time. Trying to make new friends. Juggling socialising, studying and earning money. The pressure of assessments.

        All of these things can mean you might find yourself struggling more than usual.

        Obviously some mental health issues require sustained, professional support, and it’s important that you reach out for the help you need – there’s a whole range of support services available to you here at UWE Bristol. For many of us, there are simple, every day things we can do to ease stresses and anxieties, and one of the most important is just opening up and talking about how you’re feeling.

        For World Mental Health Day, we’re using the opportunity to encourage everyone to take the time to chat with a friend or someone you feel close to. Check in with them, find out how they’re really doing and give both of you the opportunity to open up about your feelings.

        So, what is the recipe for a really good chat?

        • Find a space where you’re comfortable. Don’t pick a time when you’re both busy or rushed, or where there’s loads of people around who might be half listening. Sit down somewhere calm and quiet, and when you’ve got the time to really have a proper chat without interruptions.
        • Start with “how are you reaaally feeling?” We all know how easy it is to just go into autopilot and tell people you’re fine, when someone asks how things are going. You need to make sure the other person knows that you want to dig a bit deeper than that and give them the opportunity to properly open up.
        • Be open and listen. For the chat to be worthwhile, both of you need to be ready to open up and also listen to each other. Why not look up tips on active listening if this is something that you’ve struggled with.
        • Acknowledge each other’s feelings and don’t judge. Shame or fear of judgement can be one of the many reasons why people don’t feel comfortable sharing their feelings. Make sure the person sharing with you knows that they’re in a safe space.
        • Don’t always try and solve the problem, sometimes people just need support. Very often people just want someone to really listen to what they’re saying. That’s all you need to do. However, if the conversation causes you to feel concerned about someone’s wellbeing or safety, then don’t hesitate to seek support. If you have urgent concerns about the welfare of a student or you need support yourself, then you should contact the 24/7 Serious Concerns Line.

        So, in the spirit of World Mental Health Day, why not check in with a friend and take the time to sit down for a proper chat.

        – Student Communications Team

        Ready for Placement? Don’t forget your vaccinations

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        You’ve started your course, you’ve gone to lectures and you have your uniform ready. But don’t forget the most important thing before you start your healthcare placement!

        Why get vaccinated?

        Getting vaccinated isn’t just about protecting yourself, it’s about keeping everyone around you safe too. There are so many reasons to get your vaccinations before starting your healthcare course. We’ve listed a few below:

        1. To protect vulnerable patients and the NHS

        Number 1 is a big one! Due to the nature of your roles, you will be in close contact with patients who are immunocompromised, elderly, newborn, or have chronic conditions. Vaccination helps prevent transmitting infections to these vulnerable groups. Hospitals and clinics are also high-risk environments for disease transmission. Vaccinated staff help reduce the likelihood of outbreaks, which can disrupt services and endanger lives.

        2. It’s part of the requirements for your course!

        When you accepted your offer at UWE Bristol, you agreed to complete your compliance checks like a DBS check and health checks. You agreed to ensure your routine immunisations such as tetanus, diphtheria, polio and MMR are all up to date. Placement providers may require proof of vaccination before students can begin clinical placements, so make sure you’re sorted and not delaying the start of your placement. Putting off vaccinations can cause mountains of work in our placement teams, industry partners, administrative staff and programme teams. We’d really appreciate you giving us a hand and get your jabs sorted early!

        3. Professional responsibility

        Getting vaccinated is part of our ethical duty of care. Our placement providers and healthcare partners have codes of conduct and professional standards in their commitment to public health that we are proud to align with. Our future healthcare students will all have to undertake pre-employment screening to ensure they are safe to work.

        4. Protecting your own health

        Unfortunately, we know that university is a hot spot for infectious diseases. If you live in halls or attend lectures, you will be around a variety of people from various corners of the UK and even further afield, which means that bugs are bound to spread. Freshers flu aside, we’ve had historic outbreaks of measles, mumps, meningitis and of course COVID-19 on campuses, as well as local outbreaks in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. So, get jabbed. We don’t want any of our students or staff getting ill unnecessarily!

        5. Make the most out of freebies and convenience

        We want our students to be vaccinated to ensure everyone stays safe and can continue coming to their classes, placements and place of work. We’ve made it as easy as possible for you to get all the vaccinations you need; we will tell you what you need, give them to you for free and set up clinic days on Glenside campus for you to get them administered at a time convenient to you.

        If you are a UK student you can check your vaccination status online.

        The age of misinformation

        All up to date evidence shows us that getting a vaccination is safer than not getting a vaccination. There is a lot of misinformation online about jabs. If you have questions and want to learn more, do your research using multiple, unbiassed and reputable sources. Always get your health information from trusted sources, such as the NHS or World Health Organisation.

        I’m in, what next?

        If you are a healthcare student, expect to hear about your Occupational Health checks via email before you start your course. For more information, visit our webpage, or contact us. You can also check your vaccination status online.

        Interested in more?

        Check out our blog on how you can prepare for your healthcare placement and how to get registered at our University health centre.

        Making connections more meaningful

        Author Student Communications | Posted on

        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 and MOVE classes then you’re already on your way – and if you’re not, and your study schedule allows – you know what to do!

        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.

        Good luck!

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