If you are concerned about your mental health or wellbeing there are a variety of support options available to both students and staff.
For students and staff
Chaplaincy: our chaplains are from many different faiths and beliefs. We also have non-faith or spiritual chaplains.
For students
Centre for Wellbeing: the University’s team of professional counsellors, and mental health advisers offers confidential support.
National Health Service NHS surgeries in the area provide support with a range of physical health and wellbeing issues. You can also use the NHS service search or call 0300 311 22 33 for details of other local surgeries.
Disability and Neurodiversity Service: the University’s dedicated disability advisers can provide advice, guidance, and support to students about a range of practical adjustments to your studies.
University of Surrey Students Union (USSU) is a free confidential, impartial service where students can get advice and information on academic and personal issues, including advice on procedures and representation at meetings.
Peer Support Service: Peer Supporters are current Surrey students who provide a non-judgemental listening, supportive service to all Surrey students.
The Residential Life team are responsible for the general welfare and good conduct within the halls of residence.
Personal tutors are there to support your academic, personal and professional development throughout your time at Surrey. They will refer you to appropriate academic, welfare and support services when necessary. Tutors follow a Code of practice for personal tutoring to ensure they are delivering the best possible help to you.
Extenuating circumstances: if you feel your studies have been affected you can consider applying for extenuating circumstances (ECs).
Temporary withdrawals: if you feel your studies have been affected by what has happened, you can consider applying for a temporary withdrawal from studies. You may wish to discuss this option with your personal tutor. If you are a PGR student, further help and advice can be found by contacting the Research Degrees Office.
For staff
Human Resources: if you are a member of staff or manager your HR contact will be able to identify the support that’s available.
The Employee Assistance Programme, BHSF RISE, gives staff access to free personalised, on-demand advice and support from a team of mental health, financial and legal experts, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Trade unions: there are three recognised trade unions that represent staff at the University: Unison, Unite and UCU.
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) provides free and impartial information and advice to employers and employees on all aspects of workplace relations and employment law.
Occupational Health provide a range of occupational health services including, absence management. health surveillance, health screening, work station assessments, policy design, on site assistance/clinics, disability at work, and health promotion.
National Health Service NHS surgeries in the area provide support with a range of physical health and wellbeing issues. You can also use the NHS service search or call 0300 311 22 33 for details of other local surgeries.
Other sources of support
Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 0800 915 4644.
Samaritans: a unique charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. Call 01483 116 123 ‘free any time, any phone’, email jo@samaritans.org or text 07725909090.
NHS 111: Call 111 (24 hours a day, 365 days per year).
Safe Haven drop-in centre: for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Open 6pm-11pm, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year at: 101 Walnut Tree Close, Guildford GU1 4UQ.
HOPEline: a confidential support line for students who are having thoughts of suicide. Big White Wall: free, anonymous and non-judgemental online environment supporting your mental health and wellbeing. The services offer support for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship problems and lifestyle challenges.
Anxiety UK offers support, advice and information on a range of anxiety and anxiety-based depression conditions. Call: 08444 775 774. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9:30am - 5:30pm.
Oakleaf is the only mental health charity in Surrey working as a social enterprise to provide vocational training for those suffering from mental health issues.
Apps - wellbeing and mental health
FearTools: effective tools to lower your anxiety.
Calm Harm: designed to help people resist or manage the urge to self-harm. It's private and password protected.
Be Mindful: is an online course for reducing stress, depression and anxiety. It guides you through the elements of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT).
Relevant training available for staff
Mental Health Awareness for Managers Masterclass: provides an opportunity for managers to explore the key role they play in spotting the signs of poor mental health, engaging with the issue and supporting their team.
Mental Health Awareness
Positive Psychology Workshop: Flourishing is one of the core topics in positive psychology which represents a state of psychological wellbeing characterised by experiencing positive emotions, engagement (flow), positive relationships, meaning, and a sense of accomplishment. This workshop explores the key parts of the flourishing puzzle and apply practical strategies that promote flourishing at work and beyond.
Resilience for Health and Success (Express Learning): The aim of this session is to increase awareness of modes of thinking, behaviour and actions and empower adjustments to bring energy in line with self and focus on healthy sustainable results.
For more information about available training, please visit our Learning and Development website.