This is a message of support from Professor Sarah Purdy, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Student Experience, in response to news of a student death [6 May 2021]
University life can be full of challenges and I know the summer term can often be a stressful time as end of year exams and assessments loom large, and plans start being made for the summer months and beyond. Of course, this year has been like none other and a real challenge for you all in so many different ways. That’s why it is so important to take time to look after your own wellbeing and to keep an eye out for friends if you can.
This week has been particularly difficult for us all at the University. Every student contributes in no small measure to the community we create together at Bristol and I know the news of a death of a fellow student will have affected you deeply.
I want to reassure you that the University is here to support you; many of you have already reached out to our Wellbeing team. The team is here if you would like to talk to someone or if you are concerned for a friend or colleague.
Here are some of the ways to reach out for support.
- Complete a simple Wellbeing Access form, or
- Email wellbeing-access@bristol.ac.uk or
- Call 456 9860 (open 24 hours). Information on the range of support can be found at bristol.ac.uk/wellbeing
- Contact the Multifaith Chaplaincy: call 0117 954 6600 or email multifaith-chaplaincy@bristol.ac.uk – you don’t have to have a particular faith to get support
- Students’ Health Service: 0117 330 2720
- Share your feelings any time of day or night with students from all over the world using our TalkCampus app
- You can text SHOUT using 85258 to receive support when in crisis from a trained volunteer
- Contact The Samaritans for emotional support to anyone in emotional distress or struggling to cope.
If you need support with your studies, please talk to your personal tutor or supervisor, or you can talk to Bristol SU’s Just Ask service.
You may not know what kind of support you want or even if you need support right now – that’s ok. I would encourage you to complete the Wellbeing Access form – it goes to trained staff who will work with you to identify what service is most appropriate for you.
It’s okay not to be okay, but please talk to people and let them know what’s going – you don’t need to face these things on your own.
Take care
Sarah
Professor Sarah Purdy, Pro Vice-Chancellor Student Experience