Support during the exam period

Across the University we have a wide-range of free 24/7 support services available, providing plenty of ways you can take care of yourself, your colleagues, and support our students during their exams.

Below we have outlined a series of helpful resources and guidance on how to spot when a student or peer may be struggling. By being aware of the available resources and fostering a compassionate environment, we can each play our part in supporting each other and giving our students the best chance of success.

How to recognise signs of stress?

• Identifying stress is crucial for timely support.
• Look out for signs like low mood, physical symptoms (e.g., tiredness, headaches, stomach pains), and anxiety indicators (reduced eye contact, rapid speech, irritability).
• Early recognition allows us to direct colleagues or students to available support.

Student support

• Encourage students to use the library’s assessment support resources.
• Highlight lesser-known study spaces on campus or nearby libraries. These hidden gems can provide a change of scenery and enhance concentration.
• Our in-house Counselling and Mental Health Service provide weekly workshops, 1-1 appointments, live chats with a wellbeing advisor, and other resources
• We also have a 24-hour student mental health helpline and wellbeing app, Health Assured
• Student Support Services have a range of resources to look after student wellbeing, including tailored support, workshops, and one-to-one sessions with wellbeing advisors.
• If personal circumstances are impacting a student’s ability to prepare or attend exams or assessments, they can request mitigating circumstances.

Colleague support

Colleagues also need self-care during busy periods.

• Explore our Wellbeing StaffNet resources covering free online resources, including how to manage and reduce stress, and relevant events.
• Our Employee Assistance Programme, Health Hero provides a specialist, confidential and independent counselling and information service for all colleagues that is both free and confidential.
• Our in-house Counselling and Mental Health Service also provide workshops available to colleagues and can arrange for a review meeting if Health Hero are unable to meet your needs